How to Book a Boat to Cambodia's Islands
Getting to Cambodia's tropical islands requires a boat from the mainland. Several ferry companies operate daily services, but schedules, prices, and reliability vary. Here's how to book the right boat.
How do I Book a Boat to Cambodia's Islands?
Book through Buva Sea or Island Speed Ferry from Sihanoukville pier. Speedboat to Koh Rong: 45 min, $12–$15 one-way. Slow boat: 2.5 hours, $8. Book online for peak season (Dec–Mar), walk up for off-season. No boats in rough seas (Sep–Oct).
Choose your destination and operator
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem: Buva Sea, Island Speed Ferry, Speed Ferry Cambodia depart from Sihanoukville pier. Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island): local boats from Kep pier. Koh Sdach: from Koh Kong.
Book online or at the pier
Peak season (Dec–Mar): book online through the operator's website or Bookaway.com. Off-season: walk up to the pier — boats run daily but sometimes half-empty. Online booking guarantees your seat.
💡 Buva Sea and Island Speed Ferry have the most reliable online booking systems.
Get to the departure pier
Sihanoukville pier is in the downtown area. Arrive 30 minutes before departure. From Phnom Penh, take a bus to Sihanoukville (5 hours, $10–$15) and connect to the afternoon ferry.
Board and ride
Speedboats take 45 minutes to Koh Rong, 40 minutes to Koh Rong Sanloem. Slow boats take 2–2.5 hours. Sit inside if prone to seasickness. The ride can be very rough in rainy season.
Know where you're landing
Koh Rong has two main piers: Koh Touch village (backpackers, main area) and Sok San/Long Beach (quieter). Koh Rong Sanloem lands at Saracen Bay or M'Pai Bay. Make sure your boat goes to the right pier.
💡 Tell your accommodation where you're arriving — many offer free pier pickup by boat.
💰 Costs
| Speedboat to Koh Rong (one-way) | $12–$15 |
| Speedboat to Koh Rong Sanloem | $12–$15 |
| Slow boat to Koh Rong | $8 |
| Kep to Koh Tonsay return | $7–$10 |
💡 Tips
- • Take motion sickness medication 30 minutes before boarding — the sea can be choppy.
- • Waterproof your luggage — waves splash over the bow of speedboats.
- • Last boats typically leave at 3–4 PM. Don't miss the last departure or you're stranded.
- • September–October seas are roughest — boats may be cancelled. Have a backup plan.
FAQ
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