Koh Rong Samloem (Driftwood Port) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Most journeys to Koh Rong Samloem begin in Sihanoukville on Cambodia's mainland coast, where regular ferry services depart throughout the day. From Phnom Penh, reach Sihanoukville via a 4-5 hour bus journey or a shorter private taxi ride of approximately 3.5 hours. Once in Sihanoukville, head to Serendipity Pier or the Ochheuteal Pier where speed boats and ferry services make the crossing to Driftwood Port in about 40-45 minutes. If arriving with a vehicle, several secure parking options are available near the Sihanoukville piers for daily or longer-term rates. For seamless connections, book your ferry tickets in advance during high season (November-April) when services can fill quickly.

Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong Samloem offers travelers a genuine tropical island escape with its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tranquil sister island to the more developed Koh Rong has maintained its natural charm, with lush jungle interiors and a laid-back atmosphere that feels worlds away from mainland Cambodia. Driftwood Port serves as your gateway to this slice of paradise, where hammocks sway between palm trees and the gentle rhythm of island life instantly melts away travel stress.

The dry season from November through April brings perfect conditions to Koh Rong Samloem, with sunny days, calm seas, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. December to February offers the most pleasant temperatures, hovering around 25-28°C (77-82°F) with refreshing breezes and minimal rain. The wet season (May-October) brings occasional afternoon downpours but also fewer tourists and reduced accommodation rates, with many sunny mornings still perfect for beach time. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during the high season, with additional departures and larger vessels. For a magical natural experience, visit between December and February when bioluminescent plankton often illuminate the nighttime waters around the island.

Koh Rong Samloem serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring Cambodia's southern islands. Neighboring Koh Rong is just a 20-minute ferry ride away, offering more developed beach areas, vibrant nightlife at Police Beach, and the stunning 7km Long Beach. For those seeking ultimate seclusion, the tiny island of Koh Ta Kiev can be reached in about 30 minutes, featuring rustic bungalows, pristine beaches, and virtually untouched jungle. Adventure seekers can arrange island-hopping tours from Driftwood Port that visit multiple destinations in a single day, including the rarely visited Koh Koun with its exceptional snorkeling spots. The scenic ferry routes between these islands offer spectacular views of Cambodia's coastal landscape and the chance to spot dolphins playing in the boat's wake.

The pristine beaches around Driftwood Port deserve your immediate attention, with Saracen Bay's powder-white sand and gentle waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Venture to Lazy Beach on the island's western side for spectacular sunsets, or hike through the jungle interior to the picturesque lighthouse at the island's southern tip for panoramic views. Underwater explorers will find excellent snorkeling directly off M'Pai Bay, where colorful reef fish dart among coral formations in crystal-clear waters. Sample fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants, where the catch of the day is often grilled right on the sand as the sun sets. Don't miss a nighttime swim at Saracen Bay, where bioluminescent plankton create a magical light show in the water with every movement.

Despite its growing popularity, Koh Rong Samloem still operates entirely on generator power, with electricity typically available only from 6pm to 11pm in many parts of the island. The name 'Samloem' translates roughly to 'drowsiness' in Khmer, perfectly capturing the island's soporific effect on visitors who quickly adapt to its relaxed pace. The island once served as a base for the Cambodian Navy, and some abandoned military structures can still be found hidden in the jungle. Marine conservation efforts around Koh Rong Samloem have established several artificial reefs using concrete structures, helping to rehabilitate coral populations and creating fascinating dive sites accessible from Driftwood Port.