The cruise liner Costa Serena docks at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS) in May 2023. Preah Sihanouk provincial tourism department
Preah Sihanouk province is ramping up efforts to attract cruise ship tourists to spend at least one night in the area, aiming to capitalise on the growing number of arrivals following a pandemic-induced hiatus.
Taing Socheat Krisna, director of the provincial Department of Tourism, noted that the province welcomed 18 cruise ships carrying over 14,000 passengers in 2023, representing a 100 per cent increase from previous years. The trend continued in 2024, with 22 cruise ships bringing over 18,000 visitors – a 26.94% rise.
“Despite the growth in cruise ship arrivals, most tourists dock in the morning and depart by evening, limiting their time and spending in the province,” Socheat Krisna explained.
In 2019, the province received 48 cruise ships and 65,462 passengers. However, the Covid-19 pandemic halted cruise traffic until late 2022, with no arrivals recorded that year.
Popular activities for cruise tourists include visits to beach resorts, fishing communities, local markets, pagodas and schools.
“For cruise passengers docking in Sihanoukville, we offer programmes to visit monasteries, where they can learn about the monks’ work,” said Sihanoukville town governor Mang Sinat.
The majority of cruise visitors are from the US, Europe, Australia and parts of Asia. Many also extend their travels to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, Kep and Kampot provinces.
With the rise in arrivals, tourism officials see an opportunity to transform Sihanoukville into a destination where cruise passengers stay overnight, benefiting local businesses and fostering a more sustainable tourism model.
“Cruise ships are an important part of Sihanoukville’s tourism potential,” Socheat Krisna said. “We’re preparing new tourism products and services to encourage visitors to stay longer, focusing on areas like Pub Street and the night markets to make the province more appealing after dark.”
The Seabourn Encore docks at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS) in January 2023. PAS
Overnight stays could provide a significant economic boost to local hotels, restaurants and small businesses. Tourists would have the chance to explore the town’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife in the evening – experiences that could make the province a more attractive option for extended visits.
Efforts are already underway to enhance Sihanoukville’s evening offerings. Plans include hosting coastal art performances, cultural events and special celebrations such as New Year’s Eve celebrations to coincide with cruise ship arrivals.
In addition, infrastructure upgrades are being prioritised, including improved port facilities and transportation networks to facilitate seamless travel between Sihanoukville and nearby destinations.
“As we move into 2025, we aim to encourage tourists to spend at least one night in Sihanoukville,” Socheat Krisna said. “Developing more activities and enhancing infrastructure will be critical to achieving this goal.”
He highlighted that the Cambodia-Vietnam-Thailand Economic Corridor (CVTEC) is expected to enhance regional connectivity, enabling tourists to easily explore multiple coastal destinations across the region. The recent opening of a tourist port in Kampot and the completion of key roads linking Preah Sihanouk, Kampot and Koh Kong are anticipated to further boost tourism via both land and sea.
Additionally, efforts to promote eco-agritourism and nighttime entertainment aim to attract a wider range of tourists to Sihanoukville and its surrounding areas. While the province has already gained popularity for its beach resorts, fishing communities and cultural landmarks, encouraging longer stays could foster a more sustainable tourism economy.
Socheat Krisna believes that by offering unique experiences and enhancing infrastructure and services, Sihanoukville can expand its role in regional cruise ship tourism. “Koh Rong, in particular, has immense tourism potential,” he said. “With the right investments in infrastructure and tourism products, it could become a premier destination for cruise ships travelling through Southeast Asia.”
With a clear focus on extending cruise tourism beyond day visits, Preah Sihanouk is positioning itself as a dynamic and sustainable coastal tourism hub, appealing to both short-term visitors and long-term investors.
