Koh Rong Samloem (M’pay Pier) Ferries

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

M'Pay Bay is accessible exclusively by ferry services departing from Sihanoukville on the Cambodian mainland, with journey times typically ranging from 40-60 minutes depending on sea conditions and vessel type. Most travelers first arrive in Sihanoukville by bus from Phnom Penh (4-5 hours) or Siem Reap (10-12 hours), with the ferry terminal easily reached by tuk-tuk from the city center. For international visitors, Sihanoukville International Airport offers connections to regional hubs, with a 30-minute drive to the ferry pier. If arriving by private vehicle, several secure parking options are available near the Sihanoukville ferry terminal at reasonable daily rates.

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong Samloem stands as a tranquil counterpart to Cambodia's more developed coastal areas. This pristine island offers visitors powder-white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungle interiors that remain largely untouched by mass tourism. As a key ferry destination from the mainland, Koh Rong Samloem promises an authentic escape where hammocks sway between palm trees and bioluminescent plankton illuminates evening swims.

The ideal window to visit Koh Rong Samloem falls between November and May during the dry season, when clear skies and calm seas create good conditions for ferry crossings and water activities. December through February offers comfortable temperatures, with cooler evenings providing relief from daytime heat. The rainy season (June to October) brings occasional heavy downpours that can disrupt ferry schedules, though September and October feature reduced accommodation rates and fewer visitors. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during high season, with additional speedboat options available when visitor numbers peak between December and March.

M'Pay Bay serves as a good jumping-off point for exploring nearby destinations via ferry connections. Koh Rong, the larger sister island just 4 kilometers away (20-minute ferry), offers a more developed atmosphere with a wider range of dining and nightlife options. The mainland port of Sihanoukville (45-minute return ferry) provides access to Cambodia's coastal attractions and onward travel options. For the adventurous, occasional boat services connect to smaller, rarely-visited islands like Koh Ta Kiev (90 minutes) where rustic bungalows and snorkeling await. The journey between islands often passes through waters frequented by dolphins, making the transportation itself part of the experience.

M'Pay Bay offers a genuine fishing village experience where traditional Cambodian life continues alongside tourism development. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will find good marine diversity just offshore, with equipment available to rent from local operators. The 2-hour jungle trek to Lazy Beach on the opposite side of the island rewards hikers with sunset views and a different perspective of island life. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the fresh catch prepared at local restaurants, where grilled fish with kampot pepper has become a regional specialty. The village itself, with its colorful fishing boats and friendly locals, provides a glimpse into coastal Cambodian culture rarely found in more developed areas.

Koh Rong Samloem's M'Pay Bay was named after the Khmer word for 'shelter from the storm,' reflecting its historical importance as a safe harbor for fishing vessels. The island operates almost entirely on generator power, with electricity typically available only from 6pm to 11pm, creating a disconnected experience for visitors. Despite its small size, the island is home to a marine conservation center that has established artificial reefs to support local fish populations. The waters around M'Pay Bay contain high concentrations of bioluminescent plankton in Southeast Asia, creating natural light shows in the water after dark.