On the Padma Bridge, it is possible to travel to Barisal Division, including Patuakhali, in 4 hours. Several types of buses travel from Dhaka to Patuakhali, including AC chair coaches, Hino chair coaches, and normal chair coaches. The AC chair coaches, and Hino chair coaches cross the river using ferries, while the normal chair coaches use launches. Additionally, travelers can take a local route via Barisal.

For those taking the "Kata Line" route to Patuakhali, buses from Gulistan only go as far as Mawa Ghat. From there, passengers need to board a launch or speedboat to Kawrakandi. The launch journey across the Padma River takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, with a fare of Tk30. A speedboat takes approximately 20 minutes, with fares ranging from Tk150 to 200. From Kawrakandi, travelers can take a bus or microbus to Barisal. The direct bus fare to Barisal is Tk150 to 180, while a microbus costs between Tk180 and 200. Alternatively, buses from Kawrakandi to Bhanga cost Tk40, and from Bhanga to Barisal, the fare ranges from Tk80 to 100. From Barisal, travellers must take another transport to Patuakhali, which costs Tk60.

Patuakhali is one of the most important river ports in Bangladesh. In terms of significance and popularity, the Patuakhali waterway is considered the second most important route after Barisal. Several launches operate between Dhaka's Sadarghat River Port and Patuakhali, including MV Kuakata-1, Sundarban-14, AR Khan-1, Pubali-12, Kajal-7, Sundarban-9, and Prince Awlad-7. Additionally, several modern luxury vessels are under construction. Travelers can also take a launch to Barisal and then use local water transport to reach Patuakhali.