Exploring the Coast: Beyond the MV Karnafuly Express Route
Traveling between Cox's Bazar and Saint Martin is a highlight of any coastal trip to Bangladesh. While the journey on the MV Karnafuly Express offers a scenic way to cross the water, the real adventure often lies in the small, beautiful pockets of land located along this route.
If you are planning a trip, knowing how to navigate the coastline between the mainland and the island will help you make the most of your time. Here is a practical guide to the best nearby spots and how to reach them.
Exploring the Cox's Bazar Coastline
Before you head to the Nuniyachora Jetty Ghat to catch your vessel, you might want to explore the stretches of coast that lead toward the southern part of the district.
- Himchari National Park: Located a short drive from the main town, this area is famous for its hills and waterfalls. You can reach Himchari by hiring a local 'Chander Gari' (open-top jeep) or a private car. It is a great place to see the greenery meeting the sea.
- Inani Beach: Further down the Marine Drive road from Himchari, Inani is known for its coral stones. The drive along the Marine Drive is one of the most scenic routes in the country. You can easily access this via a rented motorcycle or a local taxi.
- Laboni Beach: For those who want to stay close to the center of town, Laboni is the most accessible spot for walking along the shore and enjoying local street food.
Discovering Saint Martin Island
Once you have arrived at Saint Martin via the MV Karnafuly Express, the island offers a different pace of life. Because the island is relatively small, many places are accessible by walking or by renting a bicycle.
- Chera Dwip: This is perhaps the most famous spot on the island. It is a small island that becomes accessible during low tide. To get there, you typically need to hire a local small boat from the main Saint Martin beach. It is highly recommended to check the tide timings before you head out.
- Coconut Groves: The interior of Saint Martin is lined with coconut trees, offering shaded paths that are perfect for a quiet walk away from the main beach crowds.
Practical Logistics for Your Trip
Planning a trip involving both the mainland and an island requires a bit of coordination, especially regarding transport and documentation.
When traveling to Saint Martin, remember that a travel pass is required. A convenient feature of booking with MV Karnafuly Express is that the Saint Martin travel pass is included with your journey.
To ensure a smooth departure, keep these timing tips in mind:
- Check-in: It is best to arrive at the Nuniyachora Jetty Ghat by 14:00 to complete your boarding process.
- Check-out: If you are staying overnight on the island, ensure you are ready to depart by 11:00.
- Ticketing: You can secure your spot through Ticket Partner Tours and Travels. They provide printed tickets which can be collected directly at the ghat or sent to you via courier for added convenience.
Getting Around Efficiently
To maximize your experience, consider these transport methods:
- On the Mainland: Use local jeeps for long distances along the coast and CNG auto-rickshaws for shorter trips within Cox's Bazar.
- On the Island: Walking is often the easiest way to explore, but renting a bicycle is a great way to see more of the island at your own pace.
- Between Locations: The MV Karnafuly Express serves as your primary link between the mainland and the island, making the transition between these two worlds seamless.
Whether you are hiking the hills of Himchari or walking the coral shores of Chera Dwip, the coastal route offers endless variety.
Ready to start your coastal adventure? Visit Koto to book your journey on the MV Karnafuly Express today.