Launch and ships routes, schedules & tickets

How to Travel by Launch and Ship in Bangladesh as a Foreigner

Bangladesh is a country with a rich and diverse culture, history, and geography. One of the most fascinating aspects of Bangladesh is its extensive network of rivers and waterways, which cover more than 8,000 km of the country's land area. These waterways are not only a source of livelihood, agriculture, and ecology, but also a mode of transportation for millions of people. In fact, Bangladesh has one of the largest and most vibrant river transport industries in the world, with hundreds of launches and ships carrying passengers and cargo across the country every day.

If you are a foreigner visiting Bangladesh, you might be wondering how to experience this unique and exciting way of traveling. In this article, we will give you some tips and information on how to travel by launch and ship in Bangladesh as a foreigner, including the types of vessels, the routes, the fares, the facilities, and the safety precautions.

Types of Vessels

There are many types of vessels that operate on the rivers and waterways of Bangladesh, ranging from small boats to large ships. Depending on your destination, budget, and preference, you can choose from the following options:

• Launch: A launch is a medium-sized passenger vessel that usually has two to four decks and can carry up to 1,500 people. Launches are the most common and popular mode of river transport in Bangladesh, as they offer a comfortable and affordable way to travel between major cities and towns. Launches are equipped with basic amenities such as cabins, toilets, food stalls, and sometimes AC and TV. Launches operate on regular schedules and depart from designated terminals or ghats (river ports).
• Ship: A ship is a large passenger vessel that can carry up to 4,000 people and has more facilities and services than a launch. Ships are usually reserved for long-distance and overnight journeys, such as from Dhaka to Barisal or Chittagong. Ships have multiple decks and offer different types of accommodation, such as single, double, VIP, and business class cabins. Ships also have restaurants, bars, lounges, and entertainment options on board. Ships are more expensive than launches, but they provide a more luxurious and relaxing experience.
• Ferry: A ferry is a small to medium-sized passenger vessel that can carry up to 500 people and is mainly used for short-distance and cross-river trips. Ferries are cheaper and faster than launches and ships, but they have less facilities and comfort. Ferries usually have open decks with benches or chairs, and sometimes a few cabins. Ferries are ideal for visiting nearby islands, villages, or attractions along the river.
• Boat: A boat is a small and simple vessel that can carry up to 20 people and is mainly used for local and personal transportation. Boats are the cheapest and most flexible way to travel on the water, as they can access any part of the river and stop at any point. Boats are usually rowed by oars or powered by engines, and have no amenities or safety features. Boats are suitable for adventurous and independent travelers who want to explore the river at their own pace and convenience.

Routes

There are hundreds of routes that connect different parts of Bangladesh by water, covering almost every region and district of the country. Some of the most popular and scenic routes are:

• Dhaka-Barisal: This route is one of the most frequented and busiest routes in Bangladesh, as it connects the capital city with the southern coastal region. The journey takes about six to eight hours by launch or ship, and offers a stunning view of the Padma and Meghna rivers, as well as the lush green countryside and villages along the way. Barisal is a charming city that is famous for its floating markets, guava orchards, and historical sites.
• Dhaka-Chittagong: This route is another important and popular route in Bangladesh, as it connects the capital city with the port city and the gateway to the southeast. The journey takes about 12 to 15 hours by ship, and passes through the Meghna and Karnaphuli rivers, as well as the Bay of Bengal. Chittagong is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is known for its ship-breaking yards, beaches, hills, and cultural diversity.
• Dhaka-Khulna: This route is a less common but equally rewarding route in Bangladesh, as it connects the capital city with the southwest region. The journey takes about 10 to 12 hours by launch or ship, and traverses the Padma, Jamuna, and Ganges rivers, as well as the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world. Khulna is a bustling city that is the base for exploring the Sundarbans, where you can see wildlife such as tigers, crocodiles, dolphins, and birds.

Fares

The fares for traveling by launch and ship in Bangladesh vary depending on the type of vessel, the type of accommodation, the distance, and the demand. Generally, the fares are very cheap and affordable compared to other modes of transportation, such as train, bus, or plane. Here are some approximate fares for some common routes and types of vessels:

• Dhaka-Barisal: Launch: 200 to 6000 BDT; Ship: 300 to 7000 BDT
• Dhaka-Chittagong: Ship: 500 to 10000 BDT
• Dhaka-Khulna: Launch: 300 to 5000 BDT; Ship: 400 to 6000 BDT

You can buy tickets for launches and ships from the terminals or ghats, or from authorized agents or online platforms. You can also book tickets in advance, especially for peak seasons and holidays, to avoid the rush and ensure availability.

Facilities

The facilities and services that are available on launches and ships in Bangladesh depend on the type and class of the vessel, as well as the duration and destination of the journey. Generally, the facilities and services are basic and minimal, but sufficient and satisfactory for most travelers. Here are some of the common facilities and services that you can expect on launches and ships in Bangladesh:

• Cabins: Cabins are the most comfortable and private option for accommodation on launches and ships, as they provide a bed, a fan or AC, a window, and a lockable door. Cabins can be single, double, or family-sized, and can be standard, semi-VIP, VIP, or business class. Cabins are usually located on the upper decks of the vessels, and have access to shared or private bathrooms. Cabins are also the most expensive option for accommodation, and require advance booking.
• Decks: Decks are the most common and economical option for accommodation on launches and ships, as they provide a space to sit or lie down on the floor, a blanket or mattress, and a view of the river. Decks can be open or covered, and can be crowded or spacious, depending on the type and size of the vessel. Decks are usually located on the lower or middle decks of the vessels, and have access to common toilets and washrooms. Decks are also the most flexible option for accommodation, as they can be bought on the spot or shared with others.
• Food: Food is an essential and enjoyable part of traveling by launch and ship in Bangladesh, as it provides nourishment, variety, and entertainment. Food can be bought from the food stalls or restaurants on board, or from the vendors or markets on the shore. Food can be snacks, meals, or drinks, and can be local, regional, or international. Food can be cheap or expensive, depending on the quality and quantity. Food can also be brought from home or outside, as long as it is allowed and safe.
• Entertainment: Entertainment is an optional and occasional part of traveling by launch and ship in Bangladesh, as it provides amusement, diversion, and relaxation. Entertainment can be found from the TV or music system on board, or from the scenery or activities on the river. Entertainment can be movies, shows, songs, or games, and can be in Bengali, English, or other languages. Entertainment can be free or paid, depending on the source and service. Entertainment can also be created by yourself or with others, as long as it is respectful and fun.

Safety Precautions

Traveling by launch and ship in Bangladesh is generally safe and secure, as long as you follow some basic and common sense safety precautions. Here are some of the safety precautions that you should take when traveling by launch and ship in Bangladesh:

• Check the weather: Before you book or board a launch or ship, check the weather forecast and the river conditions, and avoid traveling during storms, floods, or fog. If the weather or the river is bad, wait for it to clear or change your plans.

• Check the vessel: Before you buy or board a launch or ship, check the vessel's condition and capacity, and avoid traveling on old, damaged, or overloaded vessels.

• Check the ticket: Before you pay or board a launch or ship, check the ticket's validity and price, and avoid buying fake, expired, or overpriced tickets. If the ticket is invalid or unfair, ask for a refund or a replacement.

• Check your belongings: Before you leave or board a launch or ship, check your belongings and valuables, and avoid carrying or leaving anything unnecessary, fragile, or expensive. If you have to carry or leave something important, make sure it is secure and insured.
• Check your safety equipment: Before you settle or board a launch or ship, check your safety equipment and instructions, and avoid traveling without a life jacket, a whistle, or a flashlight. If you don't have or know how to use any of these items, ask for help or guidance.
• Check your health: Before you start or board a launch or ship, check your health and comfort, and avoid traveling if you are sick, injured, or allergic. If you have any medical condition or emergency, inform the crew or the authorities.
• Check your surroundings: During your journey on a launch or ship, check your surroundings and environment, and avoid going to or staying in unsafe, crowded, or isolated areas. If you see or hear anything suspicious, alarming, or illegal, report it or move away.