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.
