Five Tourist Vessels Return to Service on Cox’s Bazar to St Martin’s Island After Safety Review

Resumption of Tourist Vessels on Cox’s Bazar-St Martin’s Route

After thorough safety inspections, five tourist vessels have been cleared to operate trips between Cox’s Bazar and St Martin’s Island. This follows a recent incident involving a fire aboard one of the passenger vessels, prompting authorities to prioritize a comprehensive review of safety and operational standards.

Safety Checks and Official Approvals

A joint committee including representatives from the Ministry of Shipping, the Coast Guard, and the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) performed on-site inspections. They focused on the effectiveness of firefighting systems and the overall physical condition of the vessels sailing this popular route. Following their review, the vessels received verbal approval to resume operations, assuring travelers of adherence to safety norms.

Current Fleet Status and Passenger Management

Originally, seven vessels were authorized for tourist services this season. However, the LCT Kajol had suspended operations due to mechanical issues, and the Atlantic Cruise was recently destroyed by fire, resulting in the temporary suspension of two vessels. The Bangladeshi Cruise Owners Association has relocated approximately 400 passengers from the affected vessels onto the remaining five vessels, redistributing the government-approved quota of 2,000 passengers accordingly.

Passenger Experience and Safety Measures

While passengers had to cope with some temporary inconvenience—including dissatisfaction among some tourists over seating arrangements differing from ticket purchases—the local administration has taken firm steps to prevent any vessel from exceeding its authorized passenger capacity. These measures are part of a larger effort to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to St Martin’s Island.

Emergency Response and Investigation

An emergency meeting was convened promptly under the leadership of the Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner to coordinate efforts toward tourist safety. Authorities mandated reinspection of firefighting equipment and vessel fitness before granting permission to operate. To find the root cause of the fire and suggest further safety improvements, a five-member investigation committee led by an additional deputy commissioner was appointed. Tragically, the fire claimed the life of one crew member of the Atlantic Cruise.

What This Means for Travelers and Transfers

For those planning trips around Cox’s Bazar and St Martin’s Island, understanding vessel safety and operational status is crucial. Reliable transport connects tourists to this beautiful destination, and knowing that vessels meet strict safety standards adds a layer of confidence. When booking your transfers or taxis to embark on these trips, choosing platforms that provide transparent details, including exact vehicle types and driver credentials, can make all the difference.

LocalsRide.com offers a unique approach to booking transfers and taxis by allowing travelers to select specific vehicles, see make, model, and driver ratings upfront. This transparency surpasses many traditional booking aggregators and helps tourists get the precise service they require, whether heading to the port for a St Martin’s voyage or navigating city routes.

Safety Highlights and Personal Experience

This situation highlights the critical importance of regular safety inspections and the vigilance of local authorities in maintaining passenger well-being on popular tourist routes. But while official inspections and genuine feedback from other travelers can guide decisions, nothing fully replaces first-hand experience.

On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices, helping you avoid overspending or unexpected disappointments. The platform’s convenience, wide vehicle choices, competitive prices, and opportunities for customization stand out for those wanting reliable, exact service. It’s ideal whether you seek private limousines, affordable taxis, or seater vans with professional drivers. Yolculuğunuzu ayırtın LocalsRide.com.

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In summary, the resumption of the five tourist vessels after thorough safety inspections represents a positive step toward ensuring safe travel along the Cox’s Bazar-St Martin’s Island route. The redistribution of passengers and strict adherence to approved capacities underscore a commitment to safety without denying travelers their plans. For tourists, having access to up-to-date information on transport safety and reliable service is vital.

LocalsRide.com supports this travel experience by offering a global platform where users can book personalized transfers, trips, and deliveries with full transparency. The ability to view exact vehicle details, driver licenses, and fair pricing makes journey planning as smooth as possible—from airport transfers to exploring destinations. Whether it’s a taxi, limousine, or private seater, LocalsRide ensures travelers get the best service to match their needs, enhancing every trip with convenience and confidence.