AKP Preah Sihanouk, April 15, 2025 —

On April 14 morning, the first day of the Khmer Traditional New Year celebrations, the international cruise ship OCEANIA REGATTA docked at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, bringing over 600 foreign tourists to Preah Sihanouk province for sightseeing and festive enjoyment.

According to immigration police officers at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port’s international entry point, the OCEANIA REGATTA, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag, arrived safely at 10:35 AM. The ship, measuring 180.45 metres in length, 29.24 metres in width, and a draft of 6 metres, carried 614 tourists from 25 different nationalities, including 331 women.

Additionally, the ship was staffed by 400 crew members from 35 nationalities, including 88 women.

The cruise ship had departed from Thailand and left Sihanoukville for Vietnam at 8:00 PM on the same day. During their short stopover, tourists enjoyed sightseeing and exploring Khmer New Year events across various locations in the province.

Immigration officers facilitated a swift and smooth entry process for the tourists upon arrival, ensuring a hassle-free experience and allowing them to maximise their limited time ashore. Tourists had the opportunity to visit numerous cultural, natural, and festive destinations throughout Sihanoukville and the surrounding province.

The arrival and visit of the international tourists were warmly welcomed by the provincial and municipal administrations of Preah Sihanouk, with tight coordination and support from local authorities and security forces to ensure public safety and order throughout the festive occasion.

This marked a vibrant highlight of the Khmer New Year, the “Year of the Snake”, showcasing Preah Sihanouk as a growing hub for cultural tourism and international hospitality.

By K. Rithy Reak