Chittagong Port Swimming Complex

Chittagong Port Swimming Complex: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Chattogram’s bustling port zone, the Chittagong Port Swimming Complex stands as a modern testament to the city’s rich maritime and sporting heritage. Established in 2022 to serve both Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) staff and the broader community, this state-of-the-art aquatic facility is emblematic of Chattogram’s commitment to fostering physical wellness, competitive sports, and social cohesion. The complex not only provides a safe and enjoyable environment for swimming but also acts as a hub for community engagement and talent development.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Chittagong Port Swimming Complex—its history, visitor information, facilities, accessibility, ticketing, travel tips, and nearby attractions—helping you make the most of your visit (skmsbd.com, Wikipedia, The Business Standard, Holiday Tour Plan, PanoceanBD).

Historical Background and Urban Context
Significance and Facilities
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Travel Guide: Directions and Transportation
Nearby Attractions
Community Impact and Events
FAQs
Summary and Final Tips
Sources

Historical Background and Urban Context

Chittagong Port: Maritime Legacy

Chattogram, formerly Chittagong, is home to Bangladesh’s principal seaport. The Port of Chittagong has shaped the city’s economy and urban landscape for centuries, serving as a vital link in global trade since ancient times. The port’s historical significance is reflected in its evolution through Arakanese, Mughal, and British administrations, becoming a major economic engine for the country (skmsbd.com, Wikipedia).

Urban Development and Need for Recreation

Rapid urbanization in Chattogram has led to a shortage of open recreational spaces (BIP Publication). Recognizing this, the CPA invested significantly in sports infrastructure, culminating in the construction of the Chittagong Port Swimming Complex. The facility addresses the growing demand for quality aquatic recreation and competitive sports, contributing to the city’s livability and staff well-being (The Business Standard).

Significance and Facilities

Athletic and Community Roles

Training Ground: The complex offers Olympic-standard pools, coaching programs, and regular competitions, nurturing swimmers from grassroots to national levels.
Public Recreation: Open to CPA staff and the general public via membership and day passes, the complex fosters community engagement and healthy lifestyles.
Safety Education: Courses in water safety and life-saving skills are regularly held, vital for a city surrounded by rivers and the sea.

Facilities Overview

Olympic-Size Main Pool (50m): Built to international competition standards.
Training/Warm-Up Pool (25m): Ideal for beginners and warm-ups.
Children’s Pool: Safe and shallow, with playful features.
Locker Rooms: Secure lockers, showers (hot/cold), accessible restrooms.
Fitness Center: Gym with cardio and resistance equipment.
Spectator Gallery: Covered seating for 500–800 people.
Café/Snack Bar: Light refreshments and beverages.
Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps, pool lifts, family-friendly pathways.
Safety: Certified lifeguards, first aid, strict hygiene protocols.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Standard Schedule: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
Special Events: Extended hours during competitions; check with CPA for updates.

Ticketing and Membership

Day Passes: Available for adults and children; discounts for students and seniors.
Memberships: Options for individuals, families, and corporate groups.
Typical Fees:
- Adults: BDT 50–100
- Children (under 12): BDT 25–50
- Special rates for port staff and group bookings
Purchase: On-site at the complex office or via CPA’s official channels. Mobile banking apps accepted.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Ramps and accessible restrooms throughout.
Family Services: Family changing rooms, stroller access, quiet relaxation areas.

Travel Guide: Directions and Transportation

Location

Situated within the secure Chittagong Port Authority area, on the right bank of the Karnaphuli River, about 9 nautical miles from the Bay of Bengal (MarineLink).

Getting There

By Road: Reachable via Port Connecting Road and Strand Road; 8–10 km from the city center.
By Public Transport: City buses and minibuses run from New Market and Station Road; auto-rickshaws and taxis widely available.
By Rail: From Chattogram Railway Station, a 20–25 minute taxi ride.
By Air: Shah Amanat International Airport is 14 km away; taxi or ride-share takes about 30–40 minutes.

Entry Requirements

Security: All visitors must clear port security. Bring valid photo ID; foreigners may require prior permission or a visitor’s pass (PanoceanBD).
Parking: Secure onsite parking for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your trip by exploring:

Patenga Beach: Popular for sunsets and seaside walks.
Foy’s Lake: Family-friendly amusement park and lake.
Ethnological Museum: Showcases Bangladesh’s ethnic diversity.
Karnaphuli Riverfront: Scenic boat rides and photogenic views (Holiday Tour Plan, WildTrips).

Community Impact and Events

The complex regularly hosts inter-school, club, and district-level swimming competitions, supporting grassroots talent and community engagement. It plays a key role in public health campaigns, such as drowning prevention, and facilitates inclusive recreation for all residents. The facility’s ongoing modernization ensures compliance with international standards and environmental sustainability (The Business Standard).

FAQs

Q1: What are the visiting hours?
A: Daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with possible extensions for special events.

Q2: How much are tickets?
A: Typical fees are BDT 50–100 for adults and BDT 25–50 for children, with discounts for students, seniors, and CPA staff.

Q3: Is the complex accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the facility is equipped with ramps, accessible restrooms, and pool lifts.

Q4: Are swimming lessons available?
A: Yes, certified coaches offer group and private lessons for all ages.

Q5: Is prior permission required for access?
A: Port security requires a valid photo ID. Foreigners may need advance authorization.

Q6: Are there nearby places to visit?
A: Yes, Patenga Beach, Foy’s Lake, and the Ethnological Museum are close by.

Q7: What should I bring?
A: Modest swimwear, towel, swim cap, and photo ID. Showering before pool entry is mandatory.

Summary and Final Tips

The Chittagong Port Swimming Complex exemplifies Chattogram’s blend of maritime tradition, urban development, and dedication to community wellness through sport. With world-class facilities, inclusive access, and a prime location near major city attractions, it offers both recreation and competitive opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Staying updated on visiting hours and ticketing via official channels or mobile apps like Audiala will ensure a smooth experience. Embrace the chance to discover this outstanding facility and Chattogram’s vibrant heritage by planning your visit today.