Koh Rong Samloem Ferries

The port of Koh Rong Samloem plays a key role in the ferry network of Cambodia, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by - ferry companies, Koh Rong Samloem serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Koh Rong Samloem, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Koh Rong Samloem with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as - run regular services from Koh Rong Samloem, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Koh Rong Samloem offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

The journey to Koh Rong Samloem begins in Sihanoukville, Cambodia's main coastal city, where several ferry operators run daily services to the island. Fast boats typically take 40-45 minutes, while slower wooden boats may take up to two hours, with varying schedules throughout the day. Travelers can reach Sihanoukville by bus from Phnom Penh (4-5 hours) or Siem Reap (10-12 hours), with tuk-tuks readily available to transport you from the bus station to the ferry terminal. For those driving to Sihanoukville, secure parking is available near the pier, though most visitors find it more convenient to leave vehicles on the mainland as the island has no roads for cars.

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong Samloem offers a tranquil escape from the mainland with its pristine white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This idyllic island, just a short ferry ride from Sihanoukville, maintains a peaceful atmosphere with limited development and stretches of untouched natural beauty. Visitors stepping off the ferry will immediately feel the island's relaxed pace, where hammocks sway between palm trees and the gentle sound of waves replaces city noise.

Koh Rong Samloem enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures consistently between 25-35°C (77-95°F) year-round. The dry season from November to April offers the most reliable weather for island exploration, with December to February providing milder temperatures and clear skies ideal for snorkeling and diving. The wet season (May to October) brings occasional heavy downpours, though these are typically brief and followed by sunshine, with the advantage of fewer tourists and lush, vibrant jungle scenery. Ferry services run year-round but may be reduced during monsoon season, particularly in September and October when rough seas can occasionally cause cancellations.

Koh Rong Samloem serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Cambodia's southern islands. The larger and livelier Koh Rong is just a 20-minute ferry ride away, offering more developed beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene. For nature enthusiasts, day trips to the remote Koh Ta Kiev can be arranged (approximately 45 minutes by boat), where dense jungle and secluded beaches await exploration. Mainland Sihanoukville is easily accessible for those wanting to venture back for Ream National Park or to continue their journey along Cambodia's coast. The waters between these islands create perfect conditions for memorable island-hopping experiences, with opportunities to spot marine life along the way.

Koh Rong Samloem's main draw is its stunning beaches, with Saracen Bay's powdery white sand and Lazy Beach's sunset views ranking among Cambodia's finest coastal spots. The island's waters offer exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities, particularly around the vibrant coral reefs near Sunset Beach, where tropical fish, seahorses, and even harmless reef sharks can be spotted. Nature trails crisscross the island's interior, leading to the picturesque lighthouse on the southern tip and through jungle terrain where exotic birds and wildlife thrive. Culinary adventures await at the beachfront restaurants, where freshly caught seafood is prepared with Khmer spices, best enjoyed with feet in the sand and a cold Angkor beer as the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand.

Koh Rong Samloem harbors one of nature's most magical phenomena – bioluminescent plankton that illuminate the shoreline with a blue glow when disturbed at night, creating what locals call 'blue tears.' The island was once used as a naval base during Cambodia's turbulent past, with abandoned structures still hidden in parts of the jungle. Despite its growing popularity, Koh Rong Samloem remains electricity-limited, with many accommodations relying on generators that run only during certain hours, creating a truly disconnected experience. The name 'Samloem' derives from Cambodian words meaning 'drowsiness,' perfectly capturing the island's soporific effect on visitors.