Sailing in Cambodia
Including Kep and Kampot Coastal Waters, Koh Rong Archipelago, and Ream National Park Coastal Waters. On the map.
The vibe
Sailing here feels like a true expedition, far removed from the polished charter circuits and crowded marinas of more developed destinations. The dry season brings the most reliable winds and clear skies, making it the perfect time to navigate the quiet archipelagos. It is a specialist experience that requires a bit of logistical planning, but it rewards you with total seclusion on the water.
Kep and Kampot Coastal Waters
Kep
gbuschner / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The southern coast of Cambodia offers a relaxed coastal cruising environment with views of the Elephant Mountains. Sailors can explore the calm waters near the Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) and the mangrove-lined estuaries of the Kampot River.
Access. Day charters and small yacht excursions depart from the marinas and piers in Kep and the Kampot riverfront.
Notes. Navigation requires attention to shallow coastal areas and local fishing nets; best visited during the dry season.
Koh Rong Archipelago
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Kris Martyn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This emerging cruising ground in the Gulf of Thailand offers pristine island-hopping with white sand beaches and sheltered anchorages. Sailors navigate between the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, enjoying calm tropical waters and secluded bays.
Access. Charter operators and sailing yachts are increasingly based out of Sihanoukville, providing access to the archipelago for multi-day cruises.
Notes. Best sailing season is from November to May; monsoon winds can make the area challenging during the summer months.
Ream National Park Coastal Waters
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Николай Максимович / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
This coastal stretch offers a quieter alternative to the southern islands, featuring sheltered bays and mangrove-lined estuaries perfect for coastal cruising. Sailors can navigate the calm waters between the mainland and the small offshore islets, enjoying a serene environment away from the main tourist hubs.
Access. Access is typically via Sihanoukville, where private yacht charters or small-scale sailing excursions can be arranged to explore the park's perimeter.
Notes. Best sailed during the dry season from November to April; shallow depths in some areas require careful navigation.