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Leaving the turquoise water and white sand of Koh Rong for the energy of Phnom Penh takes you from island calm to Cambodia's historical and political heart. The trip is straightforward: a boat crossing to Sihanoukville on the mainland, then a road transfer to the capital.
Most travelers book a combined ticket that covers the ferry and the onward vehicle, so the handoff at the pier is smooth.
The Ferry to Sihanoukville
The crossing from Koh Rong to Sihanoukville takes about 45 minutes.[1] Romny Tour Express Ferry lists departures from Koh Rong at 10:30 and 14:45.[2] Koh Rong has several piers, so check which one your ticket departs from.
Koh Rong to Phnom Penh by Ferry and Van
A combined ferry and van ticket is the most common way to make the trip. On booking platforms, it costs about $25 to $31 (November 2026), and the journey takes from about 3 hours 20 minutes. Boats that stop at several piers on Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem and traffic on the road make the total longer.[3]
The road leg uses the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville expressway. Giant Ibis covers the 240 km from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh in about 4 hours, with a 30-minute rest stop on the expressway.[4]
Koh Rong to Phnom Penh by Ferry and Bus
If you prefer a larger vehicle with more luggage space, take the ferry and bus combination. On booking platforms, it costs about $26 to $32 (November 2026) and takes from about 3 hours 45 minutes.[3] Buses suit families and travelers with large luggage or surfboards.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry + Van | About $25 - $31[3] | From about 3h 20m |
| Ferry + Bus | About $26 - $32[3] | From about 3h 45m |
Tips for Traveling from Koh Rong to Phnom Penh
- Confirm your pier: Koh Rong has several piers, such as Koh Toch and Long Set. Getting between them on the island is slow and can be costly by longtail boat.
- Book a combined ticket: A ticket that covers both ferry and road leg is easier to manage if the boat runs late.
- Keep valuables close: Keep your passport, electronics and money in a small daypack that stays with you.
- Carry cash: There are no ATMs on Koh Rong, so bring enough US dollars before you go.[1]
- Seasickness: If you are prone to it, take medication about 30 minutes before boarding. The sea can get choppy in the rainy season.
Timetable
| Bus Koh Rong - Phnom Penh $ 25.64โ31.94 3h 45m โ 5h | |
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| Ferry Koh Rong - Phnom Penh $ 24.73โ31.14 3h 20m โ 6h 30m | |
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| Van Koh Rong - Phnom Penh $ 24.73โ30.17 3h 20m โ 4h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Koh Rong to Phnom Penh, including current prices and schedules.
A combined ferry and van ticket. On booking platforms, it starts at about $25 (November 2026).
The ferry and van combination is usually the fastest and can take from about 3 hours 20 minutes in total.
The trip takes from about 3 hours 20 minutes, longer if the boat stops at several piers or the road is busy.
No. You take a ferry from Koh Rong to Sihanoukville, then a van or bus to Phnom Penh.
Booking 1 or 2 days ahead is wise, especially in the high season from November to April, because combined tickets can sell out.
It depends on the operator. Giant Ibis arrives at its bus station on Street 106 near the Night Market, and other companies use their own offices. From there a tuk-tuk takes you to your hotel.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Island Speed Ferry: Koh Rong: Cambodia Wild Island Paradise. Retrieved October 26, 2026.
- [2] Romny Tour Express Ferry: Romny Tour Express Ferry. Retrieved October 26, 2026.
- [3] 12Go: 12Go timetable: Koh Rong - Phnom Penh. Retrieved November 3, 2026.
- [4] Giant Ibis Transport: Bus from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Retrieved October 26, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.