Cambodia - Clearance changes including increased costs

by Rony Hill of Sail Cambodia and Andrey Mantula on 15 Jul 2015 Cruising yachts are no longer able to enter Cambodia through Koh Kong town near the border with Thailand. Sihanoukville is now the only clearance port for yachts clearing in and out of the country. Clearance charges have also been introduced.

It seems some yachties have worn out their welcome there. So all visiting yachts must clear in and out in Sihanoukville.

Formalities must be done through the Kampuchea shipping agency (KAMSAB), who are located across the sea beach road at Victory beach, on the bottom floor of the Windmill Hotel. Call 855 (0) 34 934 197 or email kamsab-shv@online.com.kh for more information.

Note that a 30-day tourist visa is required for all crew and passengers and arrival without a visa will result in the passports being sent to Phnom Phen at a cost of $500USD.

Fees

Entrance and exit fees have been introduced and can vary depending on the size of the yacht and the captain's negotiating skills.

A 40 to 50ft. yacht should expect to pay between $300 to $500USD.

Included in this amount is $100 which goes into the pockets of officials (5 x $20) and an agency fee of between $50 and $100.