Full Day City Tour with A Boat Trip to 2 Islands

If you’re heading to Sihanoukville and looking for a way to combine cultural sights with some fun island escapades, this full-day tour offers a balanced mix of city exploration and outdoor adventure. It promises a relaxed yet engaging experience, perfect for travelers who want a taste of local culture and pristine beaches all in one day.

From wandering bustling markets and visiting a historic pagoda to cruising on a private boat and snorkeling around two different islands, this tour packs many highlights. We particularly like the personal touch with a private boat, the opportunity to snorkel and fish in clear waters, and the well-rounded itinerary. However, some reviewers have noted it isn’t entirely private (more group-oriented), which is good to keep in mind if you’re expecting exclusivity.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, outdoor activities, and laid-back beach time. If you’re comfortable with walking and moderate outdoor activity, and want a memorable day of discovery, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: Combines city sights, market visits, and island adventures.
• Private Boat Experience: Offers snorkeling, fishing, and unlimited drinks in a relaxed setting.
• Cultural Insights: Includes visits to a local market and Wat Leu Pagoda.
• Delicious Food: Features a BBQ lunch with fresh seafood and fruits.
• Value for Money: At $110, it provides a full day of varied activities, including transportation, guide, and meals.
• Well-reviewed Guides: Many travelers mention friendly, attentive guides who enhance the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What to Expect from This Tour

In reviewing this full-day experience, what stands out is its blend of culture and seaside fun. The tour kicks off with a short shuttle ride from the cruise port (or your hotel), making logistics straightforward. You’ll start by exploring local life at Sihanoukville’s bustling market and visiting a pagoda—small cultural touches that give you a glimpse of Cambodian everyday life.

The real highlight, however, is the boat trip. You’ll cruise on a private vessel—some reviews mention it’s a traditional fishing boat powered by car engines—which adds a unique, authentic vibe. As you sail to Koh Chalous and Koh Takeiv islands, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snorkel, fish, or simply relax on deck with unlimited drinks. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and fishing equipment makes this a flexible activity, whether you want to explore underwater life or just soak up the sun.

Later in the day, you’ll enjoy a BBQ lunch right on the beach—fresh squid, shrimp, chicken, and beef grilled to order, paired with fruits and cold drinks. The lunch is praised for its quality and the friendly service on the beach. Afterward, you’ll visit another nearby island, Koh Takeiv, known for its soft sands and calm waters, perfect for a swim and some downtime.

In the afternoon, the tour includes a visit to the local market to hunt for souvenirs and a stop at Wat Leu Pagoda for panoramic views of Sihanoukville—a good way to wind down your busy day before heading back to the port or your hotel.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point and Initial City Exploration

Your day begins with a guide holding a sign outside Main Port Gate 1. From there, a complimentary shuttle bus takes you close to the meeting spot, a simple 5-minute walk to meet your guide. Many reviews mention how smooth and hassle-free this start is, with some noting the friendly, professional attitude of guides like Sothy, who was praised for his attentive service.

Your first stops are the local fish market and a pagoda. These visits are more than just sightseeing—they offer authentic glimpses into Cambodia’s daily life and religious traditions. Travelers appreciated the chance to see bustling market stalls and observe local fishing practices, adding cultural depth before the boat trip.

The Private Boat Ride to Koh Chalous

Next, you’ll head to Otres pier to hop on your boat. While some reviews mention that the boat is a traditional vessel powered by car engines, it offers a genuine feel of local maritime life. The boat is equipped with lifejackets, and the crew provides a friendly environment, often with unlimited drinks—soft drinks, beer, and mineral water—making the ride comfortable and fun.

During the journey, you can snorkel and fish. Many guests found snorkeling to be enjoyable, with clear waters providing decent visibility to see colorful fish and corals. The crew often helps those new to snorkeling, and gear is provided, though bringing your own is always an option if you’re particular.

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Koh Chalous Island: Snorkeling and Relaxation

Koh Chalous is often described as a quiet, less crowded spot. It’s excellent for swimming, lounging on the beach, or snorkeling. Guests have mentioned relaxing on the beach with hardly anyone around, appreciating the unspoiled scenery. One reviewer noted that the island’s pristine half-mile-long beach was untouched and peaceful, ideal for those seeking solitude.

Koh Takeiv Island: Delightful Beach Escape

After a couple of hours, the boat heads to Koh Takeiv, renowned for its soft sands and calm, inviting waters. Here, you can swim, relax, or walk along the shoreline. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery—ultra-clean beaches with fine sand and very few people—making it a perfect spot for genuine relaxation.

The BBQ Beach Lunch

Around 1:30 pm, everyone gathers for the lunch, set up right on the beach. The BBQ features squid, shrimp, chicken, beef, rice, bread, and fresh fruit—something for every palate. Many guests have praised the quality and freshness of the food, noting that the grilled seafood was especially tasty. Drinks are unlimited, and the relaxed beach setting makes it feel like a true tropical feast.

Returning and Cultural Highlights

In the afternoon, you’ll cruise back to Otres pier, arriving around 2:20 pm, giving you time to visit the local market and Wat Leu Pagoda. The market offers a chance to browse souvenirs and local crafts, which many reviewers found worthwhile. The pagoda provides sweeping views of Sihanoukville and offers an authentic spiritual experience.

End of the Tour

The tour wraps up around 4:00 pm, with transportation arranged back to your ship or hotel. The overall schedule is well-paced, giving plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Personal Guide and Authentic Touches

Many reviews highlight how guides like Sothy make the experience special. From the friendly port greeting to informative commentary, guides often go beyond expectations, sharing insights about local culture and ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

The Quality of the Food

Guests frequently mention the BBQ lunch as a real highlight—fresh seafood grilled on-site, served in a relaxed beach setting. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and fresh fruit makes it not just a meal but a highlight of the day.

The Scenic Beauty of the Islands

The two islands visited are praised for their natural beauty—hardly crowded, with soft sands and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Unlike busy tourist spots, these islands offer tranquility and authentic seaside charm.

The Flexibility of Activities

Snorkeling and fishing are optional but easily accessible, with equipment provided and crew assistance. Many reviewers appreciated the chance to do both without additional hassle or expense.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is generally well-reviewed, some travelers have noted that the tour isn’t entirely private, despite being advertised as such. It’s more of a small-group outing, often with 10-12 people, which can impact the perception of exclusivity.

Plus, some reviews suggest that not all advertised islands are visited if the weather or other factors interfere, so it’s worth going in with flexible expectations.

Finally, the beaches and islands are relatively untouched, which means amenities are basic. If you’re looking for luxury or highly developed facilities, this tour may not satisfy those needs.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

This full-day Sihanoukville adventure offers a comprehensive taste of local culture, scenic nature, and seaside fun. With a good mix of sightseeing, active pursuits, and relaxation, it caters well to travelers who want an authentic experience without overpaying for it.

The knowledgeable guides, quality food, and stunning island vistas are major draws. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, and who enjoy a laid-back, scenic pace.

If you’re after a memorable, value-for-money day that combines city life with tropical escape, this tour hits the mark. It’s an ideal option for cruise passengers, families, or anyone wanting a balanced, authentic day in Cambodia’s coastal paradise.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling gear is provided, non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat ride and beach time, but swimming might be limited. It’s best to inform guides if you’re not comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for souvenirs. It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and protective sun gear.

How long is the boat trip?
The combined boat ride to two islands typically lasts about 2 hours, with plenty of time for snorkeling, fishing, and relaxing.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, on the boat, guests can enjoy unlimited soft drinks, beer, and mineral water throughout the trip.

What’s included in the lunch?
The BBQ lunch includes grilled squid, shrimp, chicken, beef, rice, bread, and fresh fruit—made on the beach for a fresh, tasty experience.

Is the tour private?
Despite some advertisements, this is generally a small-group tour with about 10-12 people, not exclusive private.

What if I have food allergies?
The lunch offers seafood, chicken, and beef, but it’s best to communicate your allergies ahead of time with your guide to ensure safe options.

What is the best way to book?
You can reserve your spot in advance, with the flexibility to pay later. It’s recommended to book early during peak seasons.

When does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at the meeting point around 4:00 pm, allowing ample time for return to your ship or hotel.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Sihanoukville’s sights and natural beauty. With friendly guides, delicious food, and pristine islands, it’s a day that’ll leave you with lasting memories of coastal Cambodia.

You can check availability for your dates here: