Dive sites in Bangladesh

There is no established dive infrastructure at Kutubdia Island. No dive shops, no compressor stations, no rental equipment, and no trained dive guides operate on the island. Divers must bring all their own equipment and gas supplies or arrange fills in Cox's Bazar or Chittagong beforehand. This is expedition-style diving that requires complete self-sufficiency, backup planning, and a willingness to adapt to conditions. The nearest recompression chamber is in Chittagong or across the border in Myanmar.

Kutubdia is accessible by ferry from the mainland near Chakaria, south of Cox's Bazar. The ferry crossing takes about thirty minutes. From Cox's Bazar, the drive to the ferry terminal is approximately two hours. Local fishing boats can be chartered for reef access, though communication and negotiation typically require a local contact or translator. Most visiting divers base themselves in Cox's Bazar and arrange daily boat charters to the reef areas around the island.

The primary challenges are limited visibility, lack of infrastructure, and unpredictable conditions. Visibility rarely exceeds ten metres and can drop to three metres or less after storms or strong tidal flows. The water carries significant sediment from the nearby river systems. Currents can be strong and change direction with the tides. There are no established dive sites, so every dive involves some degree of exploration and uncertainty. Safety planning must account for the remote location and absence of emergency services.

Scuba diving at Saint Martin's Island is still in its early stages compared to established dive destinations. A small number of operators offer introductory and guided dives, primarily around the rocky reef formations on the western and southern sides of the island. Most underwater exploration is done via snorkelling, which is accessible and rewarding given the shallow coral areas. Divers should bring their own equipment as rental options are limited.

The dry season from November to March offers the best conditions with calmer seas, lower humidity, and the best underwater visibility. The monsoon season from June to September makes the island virtually inaccessible due to rough seas, and boat services are suspended. The shoulder months of October and April can be pleasant but weather is less predictable. Peak tourist season is December to February.