Saint Martin

The sea called to me long before I saw it. I packed a light bag and boarded a bus going North Bengal from Dhaka because I was getting sick of the bustling city, the dull grey sky, and the constant weight of routine. Where am I going? Saint Martin's Island is the only coral island in Bangladesh. It is a tiny dot in the Bay of Bengal with turquoise waters and a peaceful charm. The overnight ride to Teknaf was bumpy, filled with the hum of diesel engines and fleeting dreams. By morning, the landscape had changed. The trees got taller, the sky got wider, and the air got heavier. At the jetty, boats lined up like sleeping whales, rocking gently as the sun lit up the water like liquid gold.

I climbed aboard the ferry, joining a mix of excited tourists, locals, and wide-eyed children.

Traveling to Saint Martin’s Island by steamer or ferry is one of the most memorable and scenic parts of the journey, especially for first-time visitors. Here's an explanation of the steamer (ferry) travel experience to Saint Martin, highlighting key aspects of the scenario:

Passengers have the ability to: Sit on the open deck and take in the views and breeze. Photograph the vast sea and far-off islands. On some boats, you can buy drinks or snacks from small onboard vendors. The sensation of the open sea Midway through, the land disappears on all sides, and you're surrounded by nothing but sky and water. It's a peaceful, surreal experience. Even though the sea may be calm or a little wavy, especially in the winter or after rain, ferries are usually safe and have life jackets. The First Look at Saint Martin After about two hours, Saint Martin Island appears like a green jewel on the horizon.

Leaving the Teknaf Jetty to board The Teknaf Jetty, which is the southernmost point of mainland Bangladesh and is close to the Naf River and the Myanmar border, is where most people start their journey to Saint Martin. You'll board a ferry or sea truck, usually early in the morning, after purchasing your ticket (usually in advance during tourist season). Common ferries include Keari Sindbad, Bay Cruise, and Atlantic Cruise. From basic deck seating to VIP lounges with air conditioning, these range in comfort. Beginning of the Sea Voyage The steamer sails through the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal as it leaves the mainland, passing small fishing boats, occasionally spotting dolphins, and coastal birds like seagulls following in their wake. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions.

The ocean stretched endlessly, and the wind carried a scent both salty and clean—like freedom itself. Flying fish danced with us as we sailed, and seagulls followed, calling joyfully. After hours adrift, the island emerged—a blur of green and sand framed by blue. Although Saint Martin was smaller than I had anticipated, it offered the promise of stillness and unspoiled Ness. I stepped off the boat and was greeted by barefoot boys offering conch shells and coconuts, and a silence so pure it hummed in my chest. Tourists disembark from the ferry at the island's small harbor, where they are greeted by local guides, hotel representatives, or cycle van drivers who offer rides.

Sunrises and moonlit strolls blurred the days. I walked along coconut tree-lined beaches, tasted freshly caught fish grilled over open flames, and listened to the stories of locals—tales of storms, shipwrecks, and rare sea turtles. As if time itself had decided to take a break here, the island moved at its own pace, slow and generous. One evening, sitting on the edge of the shore as the tide rolled in, I felt it—the stillness I had been searching for.

• Tips for the Steamer Journey:

 When you travel in the morning, the weather is better and the sea is calmer. Sit on the upper deck for the best views and photos.

 Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be strong on open water.

 If you are prone to seasickness, keep motion sickness medication close at hand. Ferries can be crowded during peak season (November to March), so book early.

When I left Saint Martin, I wasn’t the same. I carried with me images and mementos of the island, as well as the peace it left behind. It had reminded me that sometimes; to find yourself, you have to lose the noise—and listen to the ocean.