Learn how to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by ferry! Discover scenic routes, costs, cultural tips, schedules, and Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours for a serene, green journey. Explore Cambodia’s waterways and book your adventure now!
Traveling from Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital, to Siem Reap, home of the majestic Angkor Wat, by ferry offers a scenic, immersive journey along the Tonle Sap Lake and river, showcasing floating villages, lush wetlands, and rural life. The 250–300 km water route, spanning 6–8 hours depending on water levels, is ideal for cultural enthusiasts, families, and eco-travelers seeking an authentic adventure through Cambodia’s heartland. Unlike the 5–6-hour bus ride, the ferry provides unparalleled views and a tranquil experience, making travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by ferry a unique way to connect with Cambodia’s natural and cultural heritage.
Ferry travel supports sustainable tourism by promoting low-impact transport and engaging local river communities, aligning with Cambodia’s eco-initiatives like Tonle Sap conservation projects. Legend Travel Group, Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism ambassador with over 17 years of expertise, enhances this journey with eco-conscious tours and transfers. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with sustainability and cultural respect!
Ferries operate seasonally (July–March, high water levels) from Phnom Penh’s Sisowath Quay to Siem Reap’s Phnom Krom Port. Eco-friendly tuk-tuks and e-bikes connect ports to cultural hubs like Siem Reap’s Pub Street or Phnom Penh’s Riverside, ensuring a green, authentic experience.
Legend Travel Group excels as the region’s premier local travel curator, dedicated to unveiling Vietnam, Cambodia, and Southeast Asia’s treasures through safe, eco-conscious journeys. Our Cambodia ferry tours feature sustainable transport, expert guides on Khmer culture, and initiatives supporting river communities and ecosystems. Specialists provide insights on traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by ferry, cultural etiquette, and green travel practices for seamless adventures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before, and 24/7 support, we ensure effortless exploration. Register a free account on our platform to save travel plans, craft eco-focused itineraries, and receive fresh updates—enhancing your Cambodian journey!
Photograph the scenic allure of Siem Reap’s waterways (Source: Internet)Ferry travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap offers a tranquil, eco-friendly way to experience Cambodia’s waterways, with stunning views of floating villages and lush landscapes. Here’s your comprehensive guide to traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by ferry:
Ferry Options:
Standard Ferry: Local operators like Angkor Express Boat; basic seating, open deck ($25–$35 or 100,000–140,000 KHR). Ideal for budget travelers.
Premium Ferry: Mekong Explore, Tara River Boat; air-conditioned cabins, guided commentary ($40–$50 or 160,000–200,000 KHR). Best for comfort and eco-conscious travelers.
Luxury Cruise: Mekong River Cruises; multi-day options with meals ($200–$400 or 800,000–1,600,000 KHR), ideal for immersive experiences.
Booking: Via travel agencies, hotels, or Legend Travel Group for eco-packages. Fees $2–$5 (8,000–20,000 KHR).
Eco-Tip: Choose operators with sustainable boats like Mekong Explore to minimize environmental impact.
Ferry Route Details:
Distance: 250–300 km via Tonle Sap Lake and river (varies by season).
Duration: 6–8 hours (July–March, high water levels); dry season (April–June) may halt services.
Schedule: Daily departures at 7:00 AM–8:00 AM from Phnom Penh’s Sisowath Quay; arrivals at Siem Reap’s Phnom Krom Port (20-minute tuk-tuk to city, $5 or 20,000 KHR).
Route: Cruises through Tonle Sap Lake, passing floating villages like Kompong Luong; land transfer (4 hours) from Prek Kdam or Roka Kaong may be required in low water conditions.
Eco-Tip: Opt for top-deck seating with sunscreen ($6 or 24,000 KHR) for scenic views and fresh air.
Cultural Etiquette for Ferry Travel:
Greetings: Use “sok sabay” (hello) with crew and locals; smile politely.
Dress: Modest attire (cover shoulders/knees); scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR) respects Khmer norms.
Behavior: Keep noise low; no photography of locals without consent; avoid littering in water.
Safety: Check for life jackets (mandatory on reputable operators); follow crew instructions.
Eco-Advice: Use digital tickets; bring reusable water bottles ($5 or 20,000 KHR).
Tip: Say “arkun” (thank you) to crew; respect floating village customs.
Port Transfers:
Phnom Penh to Sisowath Quay: Eco-tuk-tuk from city center ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR).
Phnom Krom Port to Siem Reap: E-tuk-tuk ($5–$7 or 20,000–28,000 KHR) or taxi ($10–$12 or 40,000–48,000 KHR).
Booking: Pre-arrange via apps or Legend Travel Group for sustainable transfers.
Eco-Tip: Shared tuk-tuks reduce carbon footprint.
General Ferry Tips:
Booking: Reserve 1–2 days ahead via hotels or agencies; peak seasons (December–February) require earlier booking.
Comfort: Bring a hat ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for sun protection; carry snacks ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR).
Navigation: Pin “Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, Cambodia” or “Phnom Krom Port, Siem Reap, Cambodia” in offline apps (Maps.me).
Legend Travel Group tours include eco-transfers and cultural briefings.
Note: Ferry services operate July–March due to water levels; verify schedules with operators. Our tours enhance with sustainable practices.
These budget-friendly, eco-activities, $0–$37, complement your journey:
Marvel at the UNESCO temple at sunrise, entry $37 (148,000 KHR).
Cost: $37.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use e-bikes ($6–$10 or 24,000–40,000 KHR).
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Angkor Eco-Trail ($90–$130).
Shop crafts and street food, daytime, items $1–$5 (4,000–20,000 KHR).
Cost: $1–$5.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or e-tuk-tuk ($3 or 12,000 KHR).
Tip: Part of Legend Travel Group’s Market Eco-Tour ($45–$85).
Discover floating villages, afternoons, boat $12–$18 (48,000–72,000 KHR).
Cost: $12–$18.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Community-supported eco-boats.
Tip: In Legend Travel Group’s Lake Eco-Cruise ($70–$110).
Enjoy Khmer dining and nightlife, evenings, meals $3–$6 (12,000–24,000 KHR).
Cost: $3–$6.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Locally sourced food.
Tip: Highlight of Legend Travel Group’s Nightlife Eco-Dine ($40–$80).
Witness Khmer arts, evenings, tickets $18 (72,000 KHR).
Cost: $18.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports community programs.
Tip: Featured in Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Eco-Show ($50–$90).
Experience Siem Reap Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)July to March, during high water levels, ensures smooth ferry travel and scenic views, ideal for cultural immersion. Avoid April–June (dry season) when services may halt; August or February balances pleasant weather and vibrant lake views.
Details for a seamless waterway adventure:
Ferry Booking: Reserve through hotels, travel agencies, or Legend Travel Group for eco-packages. Book 1–2 days early; peak seasons (December–February) require earlier reservations.
Departure Points: Phnom Penh’s Sisowath Quay (7:00 AM–8:00 AM); confirm with operator.
Arrival Points: Siem Reap’s Phnom Krom Port; arrange e-tuk-tuk ($5–$7 or 20,000–28,000 KHR) to Pub Street.
Navigation Tip: Pin “Phnom Krom Port, Siem Reap, Cambodia” in offline apps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (2,000–4,000 KHR).
Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable ferries reduce environmental impact.
Travel Tip: Early ferries (7:00 AM) maximize daylight exploration in Siem Reap.
Start your Siem Reap Travel with serene vistas (Source: Internet)Pack for a comfortable, respectful journey:
Documents: Passport, Cambodia visa ($42 or 168,000 KHR); wallet ($8–$12 or 32,000–48,000 KHR).
Clothing: Light, modest attire; scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for temple visits post-arrival; hat ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for sun protection.
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($5 or 20,000 KHR); snacks ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR).
Tech: Phone with offline maps; portable charger ($15–$25 or 60,000–100,000 KHR); local SIM ($7–$10 or 28,000–40,000 KHR).
Eco Items: Biodegradable sunscreen ($6 or 24,000 KHR); reusable tote ($4 or 16,000 KHR).
Extras: Small cash in USD/KHR for transfers; travel towel ($5 or 20,000 KHR). Tip: Modest attire respects Khmer cultural norms.
Ferry Costs
Standard: $25–$35 (100,000–140,000 KHR).
Premium: $40–$50 (160,000–200,000 KHR).
Luxury Cruise: $200–$400 (800,000–1,600,000 KHR).
Visa & Travel Costs
Cambodia Visa: $42 (168,000 KHR).
Port Snacks: $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR).
Activity Fees
Angkor Wat: $37 (148,000 KHR).
Old Market: $1–$5 (4,000–20,000 KHR).
Tonle Sap Boat: $12–$18 (48,000–72,000 KHR).
Pub Street Meals: $3–$6 (12,000–24,000 KHR).
Phare Circus: $18 (72,000 KHR).
Souvenirs: $3–$7 (12,000–28,000 KHR).
Eco-Tour: $20–$35 (80,000–140,000 KHR).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Post-Arrival)
Budget: $35–$55 (standard ferry, street food, market).
Mid-range: $65–$95 (premium ferry, boat tour, circus).
Luxury: $130–$170 (luxury cruise, upscale dining, private tour). Tip: Ferry $25–$50; visa $42; activities $0–$37; eco-tours add cultural value.
Etiquette: Use “sok sabay” for greetings; respect fellow passengers and locals; avoid littering.
Ferry Choices: Mekong Explore for comfort; Angkor Express for budget.
Schedules: Early ferries (7:00 AM–8:00 AM) for daytime Siem Reap arrival.
Sustainability: Digital tickets reduce waste; choose eco-conscious operators.
Navigation: Port to city via e-tuk-tuk ($5–$7 or 20,000–28,000 KHR).
Weather: Wet season for optimal water levels and scenic views.
Cultural Note: Engage politely with floating village residents; respect customs.
Legend Tours: Eco-transfers and cultural briefings included.
Explore Siem Reap post-ferry with our eco-tours:
Angkor Eco-Trail ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Guided temple tour with e-bike, eco-snack ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR). Guide, cultural tips included.
Market Eco-Tour ($45–$85/person, half day): Old Market exploration, sustainable meal, culturally sensitive stops.
Cambodia Waterway Explorer ($280–$400/person, 4 days): Multi-site tour with eco-lodges, meals, green transfers. Prices include guides, sustainable logistics, entries. 25% off for groups of 4+! Register a free account to track, save, and tailor your Siem Reap itinerary.
Traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by ferry offers a serene, scenic journey ($25–$50 or 100,000–200,000 KHR, 6–8 hours) through Cambodia’s waterways, connecting the capital’s vibrancy to the iconic Angkor Wat. This eco-friendly route fosters respectful exploration with sustainable transport and authentic local experiences. Legend Travel Group’s Siem Reap Tours guide you through this cultural odyssey, ensuring a sustainable Siem Reap Travel experience that deepens connections to Cambodia’s heritage, from the majestic Angkor Wat to vibrant local markets. Create your free account to monitor guides, design vibrant itineraries, and explore further—reach out at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for your sustainable Cambodian adventure!
Ready to cruise to Angkor Wat by ferry? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.
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