Koh Sdach Ferries

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

Travelers can reach Koh Sdach via ferry services that operate regularly from mainland ports including Sihanoukville and the smaller coastal town of Koh Kong. The journey from Sihanoukville takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on weather conditions, while Koh Kong is closer at about 2 hours by boat. If coming from Phnom Penh, you'll first need to travel by bus or private transport to one of these coastal departure points, a journey of roughly 4-5 hours. Limited parking is available at the mainland departure piers, though it's advisable to arrange transportation to the pier rather than leaving a vehicle for extended periods.

Nestled in Cambodia's southwestern coast, Koh Sdach is a tranquil fishing island that offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Cambodian coastal life. This small yet charming island serves as an important ferry connection point along Cambodia's developing coastline. Visitors to Koh Sdach will find themselves immersed in a peaceful atmosphere where fishing boats dot the horizon and local life unfolds at a refreshingly unhurried pace.

The ideal time to visit Koh Sdach falls between November and April during Cambodia's dry season when seas are calmer and ferry crossings more reliable. December to February offers the most pleasant temperatures, with clear skies and cooling sea breezes making exploration comfortable. The monsoon season (May to October) brings occasional heavy rains and rougher seas, sometimes affecting ferry schedules and limiting water activities. October and November can be an excellent compromise, offering fewer visitors and increasingly stable weather as the rainy season transitions to dry, though occasional showers may still occur.

Koh Sdach serves as a gateway to Cambodia's emerging island destinations along the southern coast. From here, travelers can continue their journey to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, approximately 2-3 hours by ferry, where pristine beaches and developing tourist infrastructure await. The smaller islands of Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) can also be reached in under 2 hours, offering even more secluded experiences with basic bungalow accommodations. For those seeking mainland experiences, ferries return to Sihanoukville with its bustling beaches and nightlife. The journey between these islands offers spectacular views of Cambodia's largely undeveloped coastline and fishing communities.

Life on Koh Sdach revolves around its fishing heritage, making a visit to the local fishing village essential to understand the island's character. Snorkeling opportunities abound in the surrounding waters, with equipment available for rent from several small shops near the main pier. Seafood enthusiasts will delight in the incredibly fresh catches served at simple local restaurants – the grilled fish with kampot pepper is particularly noteworthy. The island's main village stretches along a single dirt road where you can observe daily life, interact with friendly locals, and perhaps purchase handmade crafts. For those seeking relaxation, the eastern beaches offer quieter spots to unwind while watching fishing boats return with their daily catch.

Koh Sdach translates to 'King Island' in Khmer, named after an ancient legend claiming a Cambodian king once sought refuge here during a rebellion. The island is home to a thriving squid fishing industry, and at night the horizon glows with the lights of squid fishing boats using bright lamps to attract their catch. Despite its small size (less than 1 square kilometer), Koh Sdach has its own elementary school where island children learn in classrooms often open to the sea breeze. The island operates almost entirely on generator power, with electricity typically available only from early evening until midnight.