Cruise Tourism Returns to Sihanoukville as Westerdam Brings Nearly 2,000 Visitors

SIHANOUKVILLE, Jan 23, 2026 (KPT) – The Netherlands-flagged cruise ship Westerdam docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port on Friday, bringing nearly 2,000 international visitors to Cambodia’s coastal gateway.

Tourism Minister Huot Hak and the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Department of Tourism welcomed 1,927 passengers from 40 nationalities and 822 crew members, marking another notable cruise call for the port.

The vessel, measuring 285 meters in length, has now docked in Cambodia six times, underscoring international confidence in the country’s tourism sector. Officials guided guests to key attractions across Preah Sihanouk province, highlighting the area’s offerings to a diverse global audience.

The Westerdam first drew global attention in February 2020, when Cambodia allowed the ship to dock after several countries refused entry amid coronavirus fears. Then-Prime Minister Hun Sen personally welcomed passengers, a gesture widely noted by the cruise industry.

Since then, the ship has returned multiple times, including in December 2023, in 2024, and twice in November 2025, each visit bringing close to 2,000 tourists.