Diamond Princess Marks New Era for Cambodia’s Cruise Tourism as It Brings Thousands of Visitors to Sihanoukville

Published on December 29, 2025

Cambodia has made a notable mark in the global tourism scene with the arrival of the Diamond Princess cruise ship carrying nearly 3,000 international tourists to its shores. This momentous occasion took place on December 29, 2025, at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, one of the country’s key maritime entry points. The Bermuda-registered cruise ship docked early in the morning, bringing with it a diverse group of visitors from around the globe, further underscoring Cambodia’s rising status as an appealing destination for cruise tourism. This event highlights the growing importance of Sihanoukville as a hub for international tourists and Cambodia’s tourism growth.

The cruise ship’s arrival is not just a significant event in terms of tourist numbers but also a demonstration of Cambodia’s political stability and the security it offers to both investors and visitors. The Cambodian government has taken important strides in making the country a safe and welcoming place for tourists, and the arrival of nearly 3,000 international passengers reflects growing global confidence in Cambodia as a tourist destination.

Cambodia’s Tourism Minister Welcomes International Tourists

Upon arrival, Cambodia’s Tourism Minister H.E. Huot Hak, alongside Preah Sihanouk Province Governor H.E. Mang Sineth, warmly welcomed the Diamond Princess as it made its way to the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. The ship’s docking on Monday morning marked a milestone for Cambodia, as it is one of the largest international vessels to dock at the port in recent times. It arrived after a journey from Vietnam, reflecting the region’s connectivity and growing appeal to international cruise lines.

• The Diamond Princess was carrying 2,850 passengers from 52 different nationalities, alongside 1,059 crew members from 59 countries.
• Among the tourists, the largest groups came from Australia (824 visitors) and the United States (797 visitors), demonstrating the global reach of the cruise’s appeal.

The Diamond Princess spans 288.33 meters in length, has a 37.5 meters width, and a draught of 8.5 meters, making it an impressive sight as it docked at one of Cambodia’s busiest seaports. This arrival not only demonstrates the capacity of Cambodia’s growing tourism infrastructure but also highlights the port’s expanding capabilities to host large-scale international vessels.

Celebrating Cambodia’s Peace and Stability

Minister Huot Hak emphasized the importance of the cruise’s arrival, linking it to Cambodia’s preparations for the 27th Anniversary of Peace Day, which is a significant national event. He stated that the Diamond Princess’s visit underscores Cambodia’s commitment to political stability, which is essential for fostering confidence among foreign tourists and investors. The minister further mentioned that the tourism sector in Cambodia, especially in Preah Sihanouk, is seeing an economic boost from the influx of tourists, contributing to the growth of local economies and increasing household incomes.

Growing Economic Hub of Preah Sihanouk

Preah Sihanouk Province, where Sihanoukville Autonomous Port is located, has become a vital part of Cambodia’s economy. The province has been increasingly recognized for its growing tourism, trade, and transportation infrastructure. The province is rapidly establishing itself as a key economic hub with the ongoing expansion of the Sihanoukville port, a major international gateway for both tourists and goods.

Governor Mang Sineth explained that the development of the port is crucial for the future of the region, stating that a three-phase development plan for the port would increase its capacity by 2030, allowing it to accommodate even larger international vessels. He also highlighted that the expanded port would further support the development of Sihanoukville as a central node for trade, industry, and tourism in Southeast Asia.

• The Royal Government of Cambodia is investing in the development of Sihanoukville Port through a strategic plan aimed at increasing the port’s depth to 17.5 meters by 2030. This would allow the port to accommodate larger vessels, including the Diamond Princess and other major cruise ships in the future.

The continued expansion of the port and the broader development of Preah Sihanouk are helping solidify Cambodia’s position as an attractive destination for both leisure and business tourism.

Cambodia’s Growing Tourism Potential

The arrival of the Diamond Princess is not just a one-off event. It is a reflection of the tourism boom that Cambodia is experiencing. The country has worked hard to improve its infrastructure, political environment, and safety measures to attract global travelers. Cambodia’s major cities, including Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, along with its coastal regions like Sihanoukville, have become prime spots for tourists seeking to explore rich cultural heritage, exquisite beaches, and bustling urban experiences.

Cambodia’s Appeal to International Tourists

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Visitors flock to Cambodia to see the ancient Angkor Wat Temple Complex in Siem Reap, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Beautiful Beaches: The coastal areas of Sihanoukville and nearby islands are famous for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
• Vibrant Cities: Phnom Penh, the capital city, offers a mix of traditional markets, modern amenities, and historical landmarks, attracting tourists with diverse interests.
• Safe Environment: Cambodia’s growing reputation as a safe and politically stable country is appealing to tourists looking for a peaceful holiday experience.

The Future of Cambodia’s Cruise Tourism

The arrival of the Diamond Princess marks an exciting moment in Cambodia’s journey to becoming a top cruise tourism destination in Southeast Asia. The Cambodian government is actively working to promote the country’s tourism potential, particularly in Preah Sihanouk Province and along the country’s coastline. The government’s focus on enhancing tourism infrastructure, improving security, and fostering a positive environment for international investors will help ensure Cambodia remains a prime destination for global cruise operators and visitors.

• The arrival of international cruise ships like the Diamond Princess not only benefits Cambodia’s economy but also strengthens its position as an international tourist hub.
• The country is also looking at future developments in sustainable tourism, focusing on protecting natural resources while ensuring economic growth.

Conclusion

Cambodia continues to thrive as a tourism destination for international travelers, with Sihanoukville taking center stage as a key port for the growing cruise tourism sector. The arrival of the Diamond Princess, carrying nearly 3,000 tourists, exemplifies Cambodia’s growing global presence and increasing attractiveness to travelers worldwide. As the country continues to expand its tourism infrastructure, Cambodia is poised to be a top destination for cruise ships, tourists, and investors in the coming years.