A cruise ship or a luxurious vessel is one of the prime attractions of maritime tourism in the world. Although these pleasure boats float in the deep sea, all facilities are available for enjoying the harmony between the blue water and the sky. Some of the best times of any trip may be spent on such ships.

 For many years, attempts were made to introduce cruise ships in the country. The opportunity has now opened up thanks to the introduction of the foreign cruise ship, Bay One. The chance of drifting through the salty sea air in the luxurious ship is now available, thanks to the well-known 'Karnaphuli Ship-builders Ltd.' of Chittagong.

This fine luxury cruise 'Bay One' has been bought from Japan, with a view to provide international standard experiences to travellers. Although the previous name of the ship was 'Salvia Maru', it was re-christened as 'Cruise ship Bay One' after come to Bangladesh.

On Saturday, 19 September, 2020, the ship reached Chittagong Port commenced services just two days later, after receiving relevant approval from the government.

The inauguration ceremonies held in Chittagong and Cox's Bazar, saw State Minister of Water Transport Khalid Mahmood Choudhary, present as chief guest, with State Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism Md Mahboob Ali; Secretary of Water Transport Md Mezbah Uddin Choudhary; Commodore Abuzafar Md Jalal Uddin, and Mayor of Cox's Bazar, Muzibor Rahman, in attendance.

Primarily this ship will facilitate the journey between Cox's Bazar and Saint Martin. As the cruise is endowed with IMO star, the company is considering and expansion of services, from Chittagong to Cox's Bazar, and surrounding areas of the islands. The work for constructing a jetty-pier at Daria Nagar in Cox's Bazar for anchoring the ship has been finalised as well.

The cruise ship was built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Japan and is 393 feet in length, 55 feet in width, and the depth is approximately 18 feet. The average speed of the ship is 16.1 Nautical miles per hour, and highest average speed is 24 Nautical miles per hour. In the coastal routes of Bangladesh, this vessel is capable of drifting at 18 to 20 Nautical miles per hour. It can accommodate cruise arrangements for more than 2000 people.

Photo courtesy: Karnaphuli Ship-builders ltd.