Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Ferry Times and Prices

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The ferry crossing from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem is the single most important piece of logistics for anyone heading out to the islands, and prices and schedules vary more between operators than you might expect.

Where ferries depart from

Most ferries depart from the pier near Serendipity Beach, making that area the most convenient base for a same-day or early-morning departure. A handful of operators use a secondary pier slightly further along, so confirming your exact departure point with your ticket is worth double-checking.

Ferry operators and frequency

Several operators run multiple daily departures to Koh Touch (Koh Rong’s main pier) during peak season, dropping to a more limited schedule during the wetter months. Koh Rong Samloem generally sees fewer daily departures than Koh Rong itself, given its smaller, quieter visitor base.

Prices

A one-way ferry ticket to Koh Rong typically runs $12-20 depending on operator and boat speed, with slower, cheaper boats at the lower end and faster express boats at the higher end. Koh Rong Samloem tickets run similarly, sometimes slightly higher given lower passenger volume per trip.

Journey time

Fast boats reach Koh Rong’s main pier in about 45 minutes to an hour, while slower boats can take up to two hours. Koh Rong Samloem, being slightly further, typically takes 1-1.5 hours on a fast boat.

Booking your ticket

Tickets can be booked online in advance, through your guesthouse, or in person at the pier on the day, though booking a day ahead during peak season avoids the risk of a sold-out departure on your preferred boat.

Seasonal disruptions

Rough weather during the wet season can delay or cancel crossings, particularly on smaller or slower boats. Check current conditions directly with your ferry operator a day before travel, and see our Best Time to Visit Sihanoukville guide for the broader seasonal picture affecting sailing reliability.

Which pier is closest to your accommodation

If you’re staying in Otres rather than Serendipity, budget extra tuk-tuk time to reach the pier — see our Otres vs Serendipity comparison for how that affects your morning departure timing.

What to bring on the crossing

A dry bag or waterproof phone case is worth carrying, since spray is common even on calmer crossings, and seating on some boats is partially open-air. Motion sickness tablets are worth having if you’re prone to seasickness, particularly on rougher-weather crossings.

Frequently asked questions

How much does the ferry to Koh Rong cost?

Typically $12-20 one way, depending on operator and boat speed, with faster express boats at the higher end of that range.

How long does the ferry take?

Fast boats take 45 minutes to an hour to Koh Rong; slower boats can take up to two hours. Koh Rong Samloem runs slightly longer given the greater distance.

Do I need to book the ferry in advance?

Recommended during December-February peak season; outside that window, booking the same day or day before is usually fine.

Slow boat versus fast boat

Slow boats are cheaper and more scenic, taking closer to two hours but often running with more open-air seating and better views along the way. Fast boats prioritize speed over comfort and are the better choice if you’re short on time or making a same-day return trip.

Luggage and gear on the ferry

Most boats have a small covered or below-deck area for backpacks and luggage, though space is limited on smaller boats — pack light if possible, and keep valuables and electronics in a dry bag rather than checked with general luggage.

Return ferries and day trips

If you’re only doing a day trip rather than staying overnight on the islands, several operators run return-ticket packages that include a set amount of time on the island before the return crossing. This works out cheaper than booking two separate one-way tickets and pairs well with the day-trip options mentioned in our Things to Do in Sihanoukville guide.

Which pier serves which island

Koh Rong’s main pier at Koh Touch is the primary destination for most departures, while Koh Rong Samloem has a couple of smaller landing points depending on which part of the island your accommodation is on — confirm the exact drop-off point with your ferry operator or accommodation before booking.

Cash versus card for tickets

Most pier-side ticket counters and boat crews expect cash payment in US dollars, while online bookings typically accept card payment. Carrying enough cash for a same-day ticket purchase is a safer default than assuming card payment will be available at the pier.

Getting to the pier on time

Arrive at the pier at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure, since boats often board and leave close to on time rather than waiting for late arrivals. If you’re coming from Otres, factor in the extra tuk-tuk time — see our how to get around Sihanoukville guide for typical transfer times between beach areas.

Connecting from the airport or bus straight to the ferry

If you’re flying or busing straight into Sihanoukville and heading directly to the islands the same day, build in a comfortable buffer between arrival and your ferry departure rather than cutting it close — delays on the overland or air leg are common enough to make a same-day tight connection risky.

The bottom line

The ferry crossing itself is straightforward once you’ve picked an operator and boat speed that match your priorities — cost, comfort, or time. Booking a day ahead during peak season and building in a reasonable buffer for pier transfers covers most of what can go wrong.

Checking current schedules directly with an operator close to your travel date is always worth the extra step, since sailing frequency shifts noticeably between peak and wet season, and last-minute route or timing changes aren’t always reflected on third-party booking sites.