Being connected to the sea and being awash with rivers and waterways you are more than likely than not to end up taking the ferry in Bangladesh when you travel within the country.
And YPT test how good it is by taking the ferry after the ship breakers yard to Barishal which lasts anywhere from 8–10 hours, weather permitting.
History of Bangladeshi ferries
The ferry system in Bangladesh dates back to the British colonial period when paddle steamers were introduced to service the growing jute trade across the Bengal Delta. These early steamers became known as Rocket Steamers due to their then-impressive speed and were used to connect major cities and trade posts. After independence, many of the old colonial boats were nationalised and handed over to what is now BIWTC, the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation.
In the 1960s and 70s the service was expanded with new Soviet and Chinese-built ferries, many of which are still in service today. Despite decades of underinvestment, ferries remain a lifeline for millions of Bangladeshis, particularly in the south and coastal areas where roads are often flooded or nonexistent. While not always known for punctuality or comfort, the historical steamers, overnight launches and chaotic river ports have become a gritty but beloved part of Bangladesh’s transport network.
Where to take the ferry in Bangladesh
You can take the ferry in many places, but the most famous and arguably most scenic route is from Dhaka (ঢাকা) to Barisal (বরিশাল). This is the one YPT uses and it is perfect for an overnight journey that doubles as transport and travel experience. Another popular route is Dhaka (ঢাকা) to Chandpur (চাঁদপুর), which is shorter but just as chaotic when boarding. You can also head from Khulna (খুলনা) towards the Sundarbans region, although this tends to involve more local boats and less structured timetables.
Other notable routes include crossings from Bhola (ভোলা) to Laxmipur (লক্ষ্মীপুর), from Patuakhali (পটুয়াখালী) to Kuakata (কুয়াকাটা), and even some longer connections down towards coastal districts near Cox’s Bazar (কক্সবাজার). Just don’t expect fixed timetables or modern terminals. Boarding is more like a rugby scrum than a ticketed queue and that’s part of the charm.
Classes of ferry tickets
Classes of ferry tickets in Bangladesh vary GREATLY, with us for the most part taking the VIP cabins to Barisal, which come with names like Hawaii and Sunset Rooms. These have TVs, a balcony, AC, fridges and decent beds. They cost around 1500–2000 Taka (13–17 USD) depending on demand and availability.
Below that is First Class AC which is usually a private or semi-private room but without all the bells and whistles. Expect to pay about 1000–1300 Taka (9–12 USD). Then you have Second Class which gives you a shared room or seat, sometimes with a fan, sometimes not, at around 500–800 Taka (4–7 USD). Finally you have Deck Class, which is just that – a spot on the deck. No bed, no privacy, and often no space unless you’re early. These can be as cheap as 100 Taka (less than 1 USD). Despite the chaos, some people love it for the atmosphere and the view.
Facilities on the ships
Of course these vary greatly depending on route and ship, but ours had a simple shop, as well as many open decks. In fact the captain even opened a deck for us to make beer party! Which of course we fully utilized.
There were also toilets, although these ranged from decent to terrifying. The shop had cold drinks, noodles, biscuits and cigarettes, while vendors hopped on board at ports selling spicy eggs, fried fish and more. There’s also usually a prayer room, a bridge where you can sometimes meet the crew, and if you’re lucky, a lounge or outside bench area perfect for watching the river. Power can go out, but that’s all part of the fun.
So, is it worth taking the ferry in Bangladesh
Well we certainly think so, which is why we include it on our tours. Taking the ferry in Bangladesh is more than just a journey, it is getting down and dirty with the local people on an integrated part of how travel works in this country.
And aside from the experience itself you have the stunning views. Bangladesh truly is a stunningly beautiful country and the ferry is the perfect place to watch this drift past, while of course supping a Hunter Beer.
Click to check out our Bangladesh Tours.
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