Koh Rong Samloem (Rumi Port) Ferries

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

Most travelers reach Koh Rong Samloem via ferry from Sihanoukville on mainland Cambodia, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour depending on sea conditions. Sihanoukville is easily accessible by bus from Phnom Penh (4-5 hours) or Siem Reap (10-12 hours), with regular connections throughout the day. For international travelers, Sihanoukville International Airport offers connections to regional hubs, with taxis and tuk-tuks readily available for the 30-minute ride to the ferry terminal. If driving to Sihanoukville, several secure parking options exist near the ferry departure point, though most visitors find it more convenient to arrive by public transportation.

Koh Rong Samloem offers a pristine island escape just off Cambodia's southern coast, with powdery white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tranquil paradise maintains a laid-back atmosphere with far fewer crowds than its more developed neighbor, Koh Rong. Accessible exclusively by ferry, this island sanctuary promises visitors an authentic tropical getaway where jungle-covered hills meet secluded beaches and vibrant marine life.

The dry season from November to April offers the most reliable weather for visiting Koh Rong Samloem, with sunny days, calm seas, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. December through February brings particularly pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and the most consistent ferry schedules. The rainy season (May to October) sees fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates, though occasional heavy downpours and rougher seas might disrupt ferry services. October and November represent an excellent compromise, offering increasingly good weather while avoiding peak season crowds and prices. The island's annual Beach Clean-Up Festival in March attracts environmentally-conscious travelers looking to give back to this pristine paradise.

Koh Rong Samloem serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring Cambodia's southern islands. The larger and livelier Koh Rong is just a 20-minute ferry ride away, offering more developed beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene. Mainland Sihanoukville, with its expanding urban amenities and access to Cambodia's road network, is less than an hour by ferry. More adventurous travelers can arrange boat trips to the remote Koh Ta Kiev, a truly undeveloped island about 90 minutes away by long-tail boat. The scenic journey between these destinations reveals Cambodia's stunning coastline with its scattered islands and azure waters, making the transportation itself part of the adventure.

While Koh Rong Samloem's pristine beaches like Saracen Bay and Lazy Beach invite endless relaxation, the island offers much more for active travelers. Snorkeling and diving reveal vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, especially around the M'Pai Bay area. The island's interior jungle trails lead to viewpoints and the picturesque lighthouse on the island's southern tip, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas. Seafood barbecues featuring the day's fresh catch are a must-try, especially when enjoyed under the stars on the beach. For a truly magical experience, night swimming at certain beaches reveals bioluminescent plankton that light up the water with every movement.

Koh Rong Samloem's name translates roughly to 'the drowsy island,' perfectly capturing its tranquil atmosphere compared to its more boisterous neighbor. The island was once used as a base by the Cambodian Navy, and some abandoned structures can still be found hidden in the jungle. Despite its small size, Koh Rong Samloem is home to a surprising variety of wildlife, including macaques, hornbills, and the unusual spectacled flying fox. The island has no roads or motorized vehicles, meaning the only way to get around is by foot, boat, or occasionally by island-style taxis – essentially tractors with attached carts.