Sihanoukville Ferries

The port of Sihanoukville plays a key role in the ferry network of Cambodia, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 4 ferry routes operated by 4 ferry companies, Sihanoukville serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

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

Popular routes from this port include Koh Rong Samloem (Saracenbay) - Sihanoukville, Koh Rong Samloem (Orchid Pier) - Sihanoukville connecting Sihanoukville 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 Speed Ferry Cambodia, G.T.V.C Boat, Island Speed Ferry run regular services from Sihanoukville, 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, Sihanoukville offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Sihanoukville is accessible via multiple transportation options, with the most common being the 4-5 hour bus journey from Phnom Penh along National Highway 4. Trains now connect the capital to Sihanoukville, offering a scenic alternative that takes approximately 7 hours. The city has its own international airport with connections to regional hubs, making it accessible for international travelers before boarding ferries. Local tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis provide convenient transport between the city center and the ferry terminal, with ample parking available for those arriving by private vehicle.

Nestled along Cambodia's southwest coast, Sihanoukville blends golden beaches with a vibrant port atmosphere. This coastal city serves as the country's main maritime hub, connecting travelers to pristine islands scattered across the Gulf of Thailand. With its relaxed seaside charm, developing infrastructure, and gateway status to tropical paradises, Sihanoukville offers visitors a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Sihanoukville enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry (November to April) and wet (May to October). The prime time to visit is between November and February when temperatures hover comfortably around 25-30°C with minimal rainfall and clear skies perfect for island hopping. The Cambodian New Year in April brings vibrant celebrations throughout the city, though prices tend to rise during this period. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during the dry season when sea conditions are calmer. May and October offer good value as shoulder months with fewer tourists and occasional short rain showers that quickly give way to sunshine.

Sihanoukville serves as the jumping-off point to Cambodia's most breathtaking islands. Koh Rong, reachable in 45 minutes by speed ferry, dazzles with phosphorescent waters and pristine white beaches that rival any in Southeast Asia. Its smaller neighbor, Koh Rong Samloem, offers a more tranquil escape just 40 minutes from the mainland, with secluded bays and rustic beachfront bungalows. The emerging destination of Koh Ta Kiev can be reached in under an hour, presenting an undeveloped paradise for nature lovers. For those seeking a unique experience, the island-hopping routes through the Koh Sdach Archipelago showcase Cambodia's maritime beauty with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling.

While many travelers use Sihanoukville as a transit point, the city itself offers several worthwhile experiences. Otres Beach provides a more relaxed alternative to the busier Serendipity area, with beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood barbecues and Khmer specialties like fish amok. The nearby Ream National Park offers mangrove forest explorations and wildlife spotting just a short trip from the city center. For cultural immersion, visit the colorful Wat Leu temple perched on a hill with panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding coastline. The Phsar Leu Market buzzes with local life, offering an authentic glimpse into Cambodian daily routines and a chance to sample regional fruits and street food delicacies.

Sihanoukville is one of Cambodia's youngest cities, established only in 1955 and named after King Norodom Sihanouk who championed its development as the country's first deep-water port. The waters around Sihanoukville contain over 60 islands, many of which remain completely uninhabited and unexplored by tourists. Local fishermen still practice the ancient Cambodian art of Kite fishing, where specially designed kites are used to carry bait across the water's surface. The city has undergone one of the fastest development booms in Southeast Asia, transforming from a sleepy fishing village to a significant maritime hub in just a few decades.