How to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem
What are the 4 ways to travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem?
There are 4 ways to travel the 24 kilometre (15 miles) distance from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem. You can choose between the ferry to Saracen Bay, ferry to M-Pay Bay, ferry to Lazy Beach and ferry to Sunset Beach. The journey takes 45 minutes - 4 hours and the quickest way is by ferry to saracen bay. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry to saracen bay with tickets starting at 20,000 KHR ($5).
Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem by Ferry to Saracen Bay
If you’re heading to Koh Rong Samloem, chances are you’ll end up in Saracen Bay. It’s where most travellers stay, thanks to the wide choice of bungalows and beach resorts lining the shore.
Getting to Saracen Bay from Sihanoukville is pretty straightforward. You can take either a fast ferry, which takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, or a slow boat, which takes 3 to 4 hours.
Option 1: Sihanoukville to Saracen Bay by Fast Ferry
You can reach Saracen Bay from Sihanoukville by fast ferry in just 45m - 1h 30m. The most convenient way to book your ticket in advance is through platforms like BookAway or Camboticket, with prices starting from 37,000 KHR ($9.20).
You can also buy tickets directly at the ferry offices near the port or even at your hotel. But to avoid sold-out trips, it’s smart to book at least a day before you travel.
Departure and arrival ports
All ferries to Saracen Bay, the main entry point to Koh Rong Samloem, depart from Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. They arrive at different piers depending on the ferry company:
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- Buva Sea Cambodia arrives at Eden Pier in Saracen Bay. Some of their ferries may dock at Sandy Pier, a popular tourist spot just a short walk from Saracen Bay.
- Island Speed Ferry Cambodia arrives at Paradise Pier in Saracen Bay, then continues to M-Pay Bay.
- Romny Tour Express arrives at Soon Noeng Pier.
- Speed Ferry Cambodia arrives at Eden Pier.
- GTVC Speedboat arrives at Ocean Pier.
Some ferry companies coordinate with hotels in Sihanoukville, so mention your accommodation when booking. Reception can confirm pick-up details the day before your trip.
From July to September, ferries can be cancelled or delayed due to bad weather. That’s why it is always good to check the weather forecast the day before you leave the island. If you have a flight or long-distance bus the next day, it is wise to spend your last night in Sihanoukville so you don’t risk missing it.
Option 2: Sihanoukville to Saracen Bay by Slow Boat
There are a few slow boats, mainly supply boats, leaving from Pier 52 that head to Saracen Bay for around 20,000 KHR ($5). You’ll need to pay before you board.
The boat is scheduled to leave at 14:00, but travellers often mention that it departs later than planned. Departure times depend on how much cargo needs to be loaded. The trip to Saracen Bay takes about 3-4h.
Expect to squeeze in between food, goods or even mattresses that go to the island. It will be a great local experience, but don’t expect any comfort with these slow boats.
Arriving in Saracen Bay
The supply boat stops at several piers in Saracen Bay, so make sure you get off at the one closest to your hotel.
Most accommodations are just a short walk from the pier. Just swing your backpack on and stroll along the white sand beach to your place.
If you’d rather not walk, you can also arrange a pick-up service with your hotel on Koh Rong Samloem.
TIP: Transport options are limited around the island. Always check if the pier is close to your hotel, so you don’t end up taking the wrong one!
Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem by Ferry to M-Pay Bay
M-Pay Bay is located in the northern part of Koh Rong Samloem. It’s not as busy as Saracen Bay, but it also offers several accommodations to stay.
Fast ferries can take you to M-Pay Bay in about 45 minutes under favourable weather conditions. A ferry ticket costs about 60,000 KHR ($15).
A cheaper alternative is the slow boat, which costs only 20,000 KHR ($5). It’s the same supply boat that makes a stop at Saracen Bay before continuing to M-Pay Bay.
Departure and arrival ports
Just like the ferries to Saracen Bay, all boats heading to M-Pay Bay depart from Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. They dock at the main pier in M-Pay (M’Pai) Bay, right in the heart of the village.
Ferry schedules from Sihanoukville to M-Pay Bay
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Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem by Ferry to Lazy Beach
Lazy Beach is a secluded escape on the western coast of Koh Rong Samloem. It’s a favourite among travellers who want to slow down and enjoy quiet island life, far from the crowds and music of the main beaches.
There’s only one place to stay here — Lazy Beach Resort — so you’ll need to book early, especially in high season, as spots fill up fast.
Getting to Lazy Beach
To reach Lazy Beach, you’ll first need to take a ferry from Sihanoukville to Saracen Bay, the one that docks at Soon Noeng Pier.
Once you arrive at Saracen Bay, there are two ways to reach Lazy Beach:
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- Without luggage: It’s about a 30 to 40-minute walk across the island. The trail starts as a wide gravel path before narrowing into a shady jungle track. You can do it in flip-flops, but trainers make it more comfortable, especially after rain.
- With luggage: Lazy Beach Resort can arrange a free tractor transfer for you and your bags. It’s a bumpy ride through the forest, and honestly, part of the fun.
The journey might take a little effort, but that’s what keeps Lazy Beach so peaceful. Once your feet hit the soft golden sand, you’ll know it was worth every step.
Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem by Ferry to Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is an untouched spot on the west side of Koh Rong Samloem, and the only way to reach it is on foot. There is no direct boat or road access, so you first travel to Saracen Bay and then walk across the island to Sunset Beach.
What you get in return is a quiet, laid-back beach with soft sand, clear water and some of the best snorkelling on Koh Rong Samloem, straight from the shore. There are also a few good diving spots nearby.
Accommodation is limited, but you’ll find simple, eco-style bungalows where the sounds of the forest and waves set the pace. There’s not much to do, and getting anywhere else isn’t easy, making it the perfect spot to completely unwind and disconnect from the world.
If you’re looking for peace, nature, and a slower pace, Sunset Beach is exactly where you’ll find it.
Getting to Sunset Beach
Take a ferry from Sihanoukville to Saracen Bay, then hike for around 30 minutes across the island. The path starts as a gravel track before turning into a narrow jungle trail. The final stretch is a steep, rocky descent with a rope to guide you, so wear shoes with good grip and use a backpack.
Avoid flip-flops, suitcases, and hiking at night. If you’re just visiting for the day, leave heavy luggage at Sunny Bungalow on Saracen Bay for about 4,000 KHR ($1).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem
What is the distance from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem?
The distance from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem is 24 kilometre (15 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem?
The fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem is by ferry to saracen bay and takes 45 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem?
The cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem is by ferry to saracen bay with ticket costs starting from 20,000 KHR ($5).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
