🚢 Boat – Chau Doc to Phnom Penh 🚍 Bus – Saigon to Chau Doc 🎫 Book Tickets Online
-
- Phnom Penh serves as the vibrant capital of Cambodia, home to approximately 1,000,000 residents. Positioned at the intersection of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, it stands as Cambodia’s political, cultural, and economic nucleus, boasting significant transport connections to Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and other key destinations. For many travelers exploring Southeast Asia, crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia is a common journey, facilitated by buses, planes, or private taxis/minivans. Alternatively, a scenic boat/ferry route is available, operated by Mandarin Cruises or Hang Chau Tourist, linking the town of Chau Doc (Châu Đốc, An Giang Province) to Phnom Penh in Cambodia. From Phnom Penh, travelers can further journey to Siem Reap or Sihanoukville, other prominent destinations in Cambodia.
Embark on a Picturesque Boat Journey from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh.
-
- The scenic route from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh spans approximately 140 km via the Mekong River. Serving as the starting point for this captivating voyage, Chau Doc, a border town located roughly 220 km from Ho Chi Minh City, offers a gateway to Cambodia by boat. Prices for boat travel from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh range from $30-65/pp, varying based on the chosen vessel. The journey time by boat to Phnom Penh from Chau Doc, Vietnam, via the Vinh Xuong border town, typically lasts around 6 hours. While no flights or railways connect Chau Doc and Phnom Penh, access to Chau Doc from Ho Chi Minh City is straightforward, with Phuong Trang (Futabus) offering regular tourist bus services taking approximately 6-7 hours, with tickets priced at about $6-8/pp. Secure your boat or bus tickets online for a seamless travel experience. Before reaching Phnom Penh, delve into this informative guide on Phnom Penh’s weather and best time to visit.
1. BOAT / FERRY from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh
Traveling from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh by boat/ferry is not just a means of transportation but an immersive experience that allows travelers to witness the beauty of the Mekong River and explore the cultural richness of the region. This scenic journey spans approximately 6 hours, providing ample time to soak in the stunning river views and relax amidst the tranquil waters.
One-way tickets for the Chau Doc to Phnom Penh route typically range from $30 to $65 per person, depending on the chosen ferry operator and the level of comfort or amenities offered on board. Among the reputable companies operating this route are Hang Chau Tourist and Mandarin Cruises, both known for their reliable service and comfortable vessels.
Departing from the port in Chau Doc, a charming town nestled along the banks of the Mekong River in southern Vietnam, travelers are greeted with a bustling waterfront scene and a glimpse into local river life. Before boarding, passengers can explore the vibrant markets, sample delicious local cuisine, and visit nearby attractions such as the Sam Mountain or the Chau Giang Mosque.
As the boat sets sail, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the Mekong River, dotted with floating villages, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes. The journey offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing travelers to unwind and connect with the natural beauty of the river.
For those interested in the logistics of the journey, Baolau or 12go.asia is a reliable platform to check for port details and ticket availability in both Chau Doc and Phnom Penh. This online booking platform provides convenience and peace of mind, allowing travelers to secure their tickets in advance and plan their journey with ease.
-
- Search + book boat tickets from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh with Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜
- you will receive your boat e-ticket to Phnom Penh by email, it is recommended to print your tickets
👮 Border Stops + Checks between Chau Doc and Cambodia:
When journeying by boat from Chau Doc to Cambodia, passengers must undergo mandatory passport and visa checks at both borders. However, the process is streamlined; boat staff collect all necessary fees and paperwork upfront, ensuring efficiency.
At the Vietnam border, passengers disembark while boat staff manage passport submissions. During this stop, a riverside café with amenities such as toilets and a drinks vendor is accessible. Prices for refreshments may be slightly elevated but remain reasonable. Additionally, a money changer is available for currency exchange.
As the boat approaches the Cambodia border, the process continues smoothly. Border control is set amidst lush gardens, providing a serene atmosphere. However, amenities are limited, with public toilets available but few options for food and drinks, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
⚠️ Important Information:
- Visa Application: Passengers can apply for a Visa at the border with the assistance of the ferry operator. This can be done on the day of the trip at the border. Customers should prepare a 4×6 photo and $35 for the fee.
- Ticket Change: All customers must reach the Hang Chau Tourist office at least 30 minutes in advance to change their ticket for boarding.
- E-Ticket Presentation: Passengers must present their E-ticket on their phone or tablet to the company counter before boarding the boat. Printing the E-ticket is not necessary, but it is recommended.
- Baggage Allowance: Baggage allowance is not limited for travelers.
- Schedule and Pier Changes: Scheduled and pier changes may occur due to weather conditions. Hang Chau Tourist staff will ensure the transfer of customers from their office to the new pier directly.
- Read Instructions: It is important to read carefully the instructions before and after booking tickets.
How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc?
-
- you can travel to Chau Doc by intercity buses of Futabus (Phuong Trang), Lien Hung or Hue Nghia
- transfer by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc takes about 5.5-6.5 hours
- buses from Saigon to Chau Doc run all the day from morning to evening
- price of the one-way bus ticket from Saigon to Chau Doc is $8-17/pp
- you can also book a private taxi / car from Saigon to Chau Doc
- Book bus e-tickets or taxi from Saigon to Chau Doc online on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜
- you will receive your bus e-ticket to Chau Doc by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station before boarding the bus in Ho Chi Minh City
Baolau – Search, book, buy tickets + Flights
– Baolau sells the train, bus, ferry e-tickets and flights mainly for Vietnam (+ tickets for Cambodia and Laos)
– bus tickets of various well-known bus companies (Mai Linh, Hoang Long, Hung Thanh, Futabus, EcoSapa…)
– flights of Vietnamese airlines, JetStar Pacific, VietJet Air as well as flights to neighbouring countries
– tickets for the ferries in Vietnam (eg. ferry to Cat Ba, ferry to Phu Quoc, ferry to Phnom Penh, ferry to Vung Tau, Con Dao…)
– tickets for travel routes in Vietnam (eg. Phong Nha to Cat Ba, Da Nang to Ninh Binh, Nha Trang to Hoi An…)
– the price of tickets or flights is from the official price of transport company or airlines
– you will see the final price before you make a payment
– you can use online train e-ticket in your mobile phone in Vietnam (I recommend to print a ticket)
– you can select a seat or berth in the train in Vietnam
– read in the order any other information about ticket, read also frequently asked questions on Baolau
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh:
1. How long does it take to get from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
-
- Travel by boat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh takes about 5 hours via Mekong river.
2. How to book and buy ferry tickets from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
3. What is the travel distance from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
-
- Travel distance from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh is about 150 by boat via Mekong river.
4. How much does it cost to get from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
-
- Travel by boat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh in Cambodia costs about $25-65/pp.
5. What is the best way of transfer from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
-
- The best and fast way of transfer from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh is to travel by boat.
6. Is there a train from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
-
- No, there is no train from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh in Cambodia because there is no railway between these cities.
7. Is there a flight from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh?
-
- No, there are no flights from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh in Cambodia, travel by plane is not possible. There are direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City.
8. Where you can travel from Phnom Penh?
-
- From Phnom Penh you can travel to various cities of Cambodia. The most popular travel routes is from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (Angkor Wat Temple Complex) or from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville – visitors heading to Koh Rong. You can go to Sihanoukville via Kampot and Kep in the south of Cambodia
9. How to travel solo in Cambodia?
-
- Solo travel in Cambodia offers a unique and enriching experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this Southeast Asian gem. Navigate Cambodia solo by securing comfortable accommodations, exploring diverse transportation options, engaging in local activities, and fostering connections with fellow travelers for an enriching and memorable journey through the Kingdom of Wonder.
10. What are the most interesting things or facts about Cambodia?
-
- Cambodia, a country steeped in history and resilience, is best known for the magnificent Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece and the world’s largest religious monument. Beyond its iconic temples, Cambodia offers vibrant floating markets, where boats laden with colorful produce create a lively spectacle. Cambodia seamlessly intertwines ancient traditions with modern vitality, making it a captivating destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Read this article: 15 Interesting Things about Cambodia.
11. What is the weather in Cambodia and what to expect?
-
- In Cambodia, the weather is characterized by a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from November to April, brings lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Conversely, the wet season, from May to October, sees heavier rainfall and higher humidity. It’s important to be prepared for sudden downpours during this time, and some areas may experience flooding. Checking local forecasts is advisable for more accurate and timely information on the weather in Cambodia.
12. Is traveling and exploring Cambodia cheap or expensive?
-
- Cambodia’s affordability extends to various aspects of travel, including cultural activities, scenic treks, and beach retreats. Engaging with friendly locals and enjoying the diverse culinary scene are enriching experiences that come at reasonable prices. While providing budget-friendly options, it’s advisable to have a financial buffer for unexpected expenses to ensure a seamless and stress-free journey. Read this article: Prices in Cambodia.
13. What is the currency of Cambodia and how to exchange money?
-
- Cambodia’s official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used in various transactions. The exchange rate is approximately around 4,000 KHR for 1 USD. Travelers can exchange money at banks or currency exchange booths, with banks typically providing better rates, albeit having more limited operating hours. While credit cards are accepted in some upscale establishments and restaurants, cash remains the preferred form of payment, especially in more rural regions. Therefore, it’s recommended for visitors to carry both US Dollars and Cambodian Riel, especially when venturing into less touristy areas.
14. What is the cuisine in Cambodia and what to expect?
-
- Cambodian cuisine offers a delightful journey of flavors, blending simplicity with a diverse range of fresh ingredients. From iconic dishes like „Amok“ to the unique use of herbs and spices, the culinary landscape reflects a rich cultural tapestry. With a focus on balance and an appreciation for local traditions, Cambodian cuisine provides a unique and flavorful experience for those exploring its diverse gastronomic offerings.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Phnom Penh ➜
🎫 Book your ferry tickets from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh + Schedule:
(You can search and book another tickets, e.g. Ho Chi Minh > Chau Doc, Chau Doc > Can Tho…)