Check out how exactly to travel from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem to discover true paradise on the Cambodian islands. I will let you know the prices, booking tickets, the journey over, and more!
If you are like me, then you can’t just explore one island, you need to see them all. And it is well worth it if you are exploring the masterpiece that is Cambodia.
Seriously this country has so much to offer to travelers, from ancient temples, affordable luxury, and of course paradise islands, and for this article, we will be talking about the latter.
To be more precise, how to travel from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem so you can check out some of this country’s best islands.
I know it may be simple enough to get from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem. Though unless you have infinite money to wander down to the pier and ask a fisherman for a ride you will be like me and instead be needing the ferry schedule.
Luckily enough this journey is relatively simple, though there is some information you need to know. No doubt you have questions such as where does the boat even stop on Koh Rong Samloem? Are the boats safe?
and if you are a natural worrier which a large pinch of anxiety like me, there will be numerous more questions circling in the back of your head.
So once your time exploring the best beaches on Koh Rong has come to an end, it is time for round two as you make your way to the equally incredible spot of Koh Rong Samloem.
Keep reading on to find out how exactly to travel from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem, the ferry schedule, how to buy tickets, prices, and more!
Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem: All You Need To Know About Taking A Ferry
- Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem Distance
- Taking The Ferry From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
- Ferry Schedule From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
- Ferry Prices From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
- Where Does The Ferry Stop On Koh Rong Samloem
- My Experience Taking The Ferry From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem Distance
The distance from Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem is approximately 6 kilometers. Though this is from Koh Toch, the main beach in Koh Rong, to M’Pai Bay which is a busy local village on Koh Rong Samloem. Most travelers will stay between here, Saracen Bay, and Sunset Beach.
As you can see it is not a large distance to travel, though it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. This is because the ferry is a pretty slow boat to cross with.
Alternatively, you can book a longtail boat which will be more direct and quicker. There are plenty of choices for all budgets, and at the end of the day, the cheaper options don’t actually take too much longer.
Just be aware in Cambodia you can’t rely on things to run on time. Therefore you are best to give yourself an extra hour than stated on your ticket to complete this journey.
Also, be aware that if you are traveling during the wet season this trip may take longer again thanks to the ocean currents and waves being a lot more aggressive than during the dry season.
Taking The Ferry From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
Basically taking the ferry from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem is your only public transport option, aka the affordable choice. Though luckily it is relatively straightforward.
Be aware this isn’t a fancy boat in the slightest, instead, it is actually the supply boat so keep your expectations low. You will be sharing with numerous other passengers, as well as food and fresh water that is being delivered to the islands.
It is certainly back to basics, and expect to be sitting on a hard bench for the journey, but luckily it is relatively short. Though this depends on where you stay and which stop you need to get off at.
Be aware a lot of the online articles state to check with the main boat operators which include Buva Sea, GTVC Speedboat, Cambodia Speed Ferry, Island Speed Ferry Cambodia, and Angkor Speed Ferry.
Though in my experience these companies strictly operate between your island of choice, either Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem, and Sihanoukville. They do not stop at the alternate island to collect more passengers.
Ferry Schedule From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
If you are interested in taking the supply boat from Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem then you will be happy to hear there are two separate boats each day.
The first one leaves Koh Toch on Koh Rong at 8 a.m., making its way to M’Pai Bay at 830 a.m., EcoSea at 9:15 a.m., and finally Saracen Bay at 10 a.m. After this, it makes its way back to Koh Rong.
The second boat starts at Saracen Bay at 4 pm, then to M’Pai Bay at 5.30 pm, EcoSea at 5.45 pm, and then on to Koh Rong.
Be aware these times can change quite often and there is no way to book this journey online. Instead, you will need to wait until you are in Koh Rong, though best to book your tickets the day before your desired departure date.
For example, the last time I visited Koh Rong the boat actually departed Koh Toch at 1 p.m. which worked perfectly for check-out at our previous accommodation and check-in at the next place.
Ferry Prices From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
Luckily the journey from Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem to super affordable if you are planning on taking the supply boat. Just $5.00 per person will cover the price of your ticket to either of the stops on Koh Rong Samloem including M’Pai Bay, Driftwood Hostel, or Saracen Bay.
To book tickets you will need to wait until you are in Koh Rong. Once there you will see a lot of signage in shops and on store windowfronts advertising the journey from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem.
You just need to purchase your tickets from one of these retailers in exchange for your $5.00. Just make sure you do not lose the ticket as it is only a paper copy.
You will need to arrive at the pier on Koh Toch 30 minutes prior to the journey departure time to check in and load up the boat before setting off.
Top tip: If you want to stay out of the sun, pay attention to where it is in the sky and sit on that side of the boat since you will basically be traveling in a straight line you can ensure a nice bit of shade.
Make sure the boat isn’t facing the shore when you choose your seats as it will spin around when it starts to head off.
Where Does The Ferry Stop On Koh Rong Samloem
The ferry only has one departure point on Koh Rong which is Koh Toch Village. This is a rather convenient spot as it is where the majority of ferries arrive and depart from and it is the largest village on the island. If you are traveling Koh Rong no doubt you will find yourself on Koh Toch at some stage.
On Koh Rong Samloem the ferry stops at three locations as listed below:
M’Phey Bai: This is the first stop that is made from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem. The main and basically only village on the island of Koh Rong Samloem is called M’phey Bei, also the number 23 in Khmer.
This has become a hotspot for travelers on a budget where many local families have opened their doors and become guesthouses providing for tourists. There are also a few hostels in this location, though if you are looking for a luxe resort you won’t find one here.
Driftwood Pier: Driftwood Pier is on Clear Water Bay and is located in the North of the island. Think calm clear waters and soft white sand. Many people say this is Lazy Beaches lesser visited counterpart that is equally as beautiful.
In more recent times, there has been a lot of development on this little-known spot, so who knows what the future holds? Rumor has it that some Chinese investors want to build a huge resort with overwater bungalows, aka a mini Sihanoukville.
Though local laws prevent multi-story hotels on the island, so everything is a bit unknown at the moment.
Saracen Bay: Welcome to one of the most popular beaches on Koh Rong Samloem, Saracen Bay. Being such a busy spot there are numerous restaurants, cafes, shops, and accommodation options situated alongside the shoreline.
As you can see this is no doubt the most convenient beach on the island, and surprisingly it is equally as beautiful. The shoreline is calm, the waters are clear and as it is such a large beach it never seems overcrowded.
There are approximately 20 different accommodation choices spread out along the beachfront. From affordable hostels, basic guesthouses, and luxe resorts. Seriously there are so many choices making it perfect for all types of travelers.
My favorite choice is Sara Resort where they have air conditioning, decent wifi, and accept credit cards, all of which are a rarity in island life.
These are the main stops the supply boat takes from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem. Though if you are staying somewhere different, and most importantly, along the same route, you should be able to ask the driver to drop you there.
For example Mad Monkey Resort on Koh Rong Samloem, which is still within Saracen Bay, but quite a distance from the main ferry pier.
My Experience Taking The Ferry From Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem
After checking out of our accommodation we made our way to Koh Toch, which was just a straightforward half an hour walk from our accommodation on Long Set Beach.
Though it is 11.30 a.m. and we don’t need to be at the ferry pier unit 12.30 p.m. for our 1 p.m. departure, it sounds like the perfect chance to grab one last meal on Koh Rong.
We stop at a cute little Italian spot, dump our bags at the door, and enjoy a delicious meal and a cold drink, before making our way down to the pier. We present our ticket to the attendants who advise us to grab a seat until departure.
Luckily it is a nice shaded spot as it is a very hot day. Though luckily enough we are soon jumping aboard, with about 20 other travelers also making their way from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem.
Our bags are all impressively piled up in the middle, with those departing on Saracen Bay at the bottom and M’Phay Bei at the top. We grab a seat around the perimeter of the boat and say goodbye to the paradise that is Koh Rong as we start our next adventure.
It is a relatively short 15 to 20 minutes to drive the small open area between the two islands before we are back behind the cliffs and making our way to the next stop called M’Phay Bei.
M’Phay Bei is a popular backpacker hangout spot with plenty of affordable accommodation. Approximately half of the boat gets off here and we also get a couple more travelers who are making their way to Saracen Bay.
It is a relatively quick stop here before we push back off the pier and onwards to the next stop.
The journey from M’Pay Bei to Saracen Bay is no doubt the longest. Here you are passing by all these beautiful deserted white sandy beaches excited to finally get to your destination and be able to jump straight in.
Luckily for us, soon enough we rounded the corner and saw the assortment of buildings lined up on the shoreline and various piers jutting into the sea.
Soon enough we get off grab, our bags, walk down the pier, and set our feet on the perfect sand. Welcome to paradise as we travelers go to our separate hostels and hotels up and down the beach.
Things To Do On Koh Rong Samloem
Well, considering Koh Rong Samloem is the more laid-back of the two islands there is a lot less to do here. Though for relaxing and enjoying the views Koh Rong Samloem is the best spot.
Scuba Diving: Of course when you are here you get to experience life in the ocean. Even though scuba diving can be more of a pricey activity, it is 100% worth it, and still a lot cheaper here than in many other places in the world. The Scuba Diving Center is located on Saracen Bay.
Biolumance Tour: Now one of the more popular things to do here is partaking in a Biolumance Tour. You are able to see the bioluminescence on either Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem.
The tours are surprisingly affordable starting around $6.00 per person. You will take a boat to a dark area of the island with no lights from nearby villages and plunge into the dark waters. It’s a scary thought, but doing it and watching the world light up around you is incredible.
Beach Hopping: Sure there is certainly a mix of beaches on the island, such as where all the speedboats arrive, where the locals hang out near their villages, where the waters are calmer and more sheltered, as well as some awesome spots for snorkeling. There are all these and more other options when it comes to beaches in Koh Rong Samloem.
Lighthouse Visit: If you are down for a bit of exploration why not venture to the lighthouse for a pretty damn epic view of the surrounding landscapes. You will find the start of the walk near Paradise Villas and Dolphin Bay Resort.
Waterfall: Nearby Freedom Island Resort you can actually find a little waterfall. This is in a beautiful jungle area and the pool at the bottom of the waterfall is the perfect place to relax on a hot day.
Where To Stay On Koh Rong Samloem
Welcome to paradise aka Koh Rong Samloem. Even though this is a less populated island, you can still find an assortment of restaurants, cafes, and types of accommodations. Whether you want an all-inclusive 5-star resort or a cheap dorm room, you can easily find it here.
Honestly, there is nowhere that I would stay “don’t stay in this location” etc, all the beaches here are pretty good spots to stay at. Though instead, it is a matter of booking somewhere that meets your needs. Whether that may be air conditioning, wifi, a hostel, an onsite restaurant, or a deserted beach.
I have personally stayed at both Sleeping Trees and Sara Resort while staying on Koh Rong Samloem. They both provided different experiences with the latter being more of a luxe option but were equally excellent for what we were requiring at the time.
Find the best hotels in the area
A glamping-style hotel on an excellent snorkeling beach. Prices from $20.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A popular hostel chain throughout Cambodia. Grab a dorm bed from $10.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
My top choice. Rooms start from $36.00 per night with air-con, 24/7 power, and awesome wifi. BOOK NOW |
An affordable hostel on the main beach of Saracen Bay. Dorms start from $6.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
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Hello,
Many thanks for your blog ! I understood that if I want to go from Koh Rong Samloem to Koh Rong, I have to take the supply boat. Do you know if that boat sails daily ?
Arriving at Koh Rong, is it possible to find a taxi or tuk tuk to go to Long Set beach ? Or shall I take a long trail ?
Hey Robin
Yup you will need to take the supply boat, and it runs daily. Your best option will be negotiating a rate with a local boat driver or walking there. Depending on where you are staying on long set beach it is a relatively straightforward walk along the waterfront. If you have an average level of fitness and travel with a backpack rather than a suitcase you will be able to walk it no worries.