Crab Shuttle

Description

Looking for a unique way to travel between Kampot and Kep? Let me tell you about this incredible boat journey I discovered – the Crab Shuttle! It’s way better than bouncing around in a dusty tuk-tuk or taxi. This charming converted fishing vessel, captained by the charismatic Mr. No, offers a scenic alternative that’ll make the journey itself a highlight of your Cambodian adventure.

As someone who’s always preferred taking the scenic route, I can tell you that gliding along the coastline beats land travel any day. The gentle sea breeze, the rhythm of the waves, and occasional glimpses of local fishing boats make this journey absolutely magical. And trust me, arriving into Kep by sea gives you a whole different perspective of this charming coastal town.

Key Features

• Intimate setting with maximum capacity of 10 passengers
• Complimentary drinking water for all guests
• Affordable $1 beers and soft drinks available onboard
• Clean onboard toilet facilities (a real luxury for boat trips in this region!)
• Reliable shade coverage to protect from the tropical sun
• Professional-grade life jackets for all passengers
• Generous cool box for keeping drinks perfectly chilled
• Comfortable seating arrangements with good viewing spots
• Expert navigation by the experienced Captain Mr. No
• Stunning coastal views throughout the journey

Best Time to Visit

From my experience exploring this route, the morning departure at 9:00 AM from Kampot is absolutely perfect. The water tends to be calmer in the morning, and the temperature is more pleasant. But here’s a little insider tip – the return journey from Kep at 3:00 PM is extra special because you get to experience a spectacular sunset as you approach Kampot. The late afternoon light creates this gorgeous golden glow over the water that photographers dream about.

I’ve found that dry season (November to April) offers the most reliable weather conditions for this journey. But honestly? Even in green season, the trip can be amazing – just pack a light raincoat just in case!

How to Get There

The Crab Shuttle makes it super straightforward to hop aboard. In Kampot, you’ll find the departure point right across from the Rikitikitavi hotel and Kampot Post Office along the riverside. Y’know what’s great? It’s really easy to spot – just look for the small gathering of excited travelers near the riverside around 8:45 AM.

For the return journey from Kep, head to the Kep Jetty (it’s the same pier where boats depart for Rabbit Island). Just make sure you’re there by 2:45 PM – Captain Mr. No runs a pretty tight ship when it comes to scheduling!

Tips for Visiting

Okay, so here’s what I wish someone had told me before my first Crab Shuttle adventure. First off, bring a hat and sunscreen – even with the shade cover, that tropical sun can be pretty intense. And don’t forget your camera! The coastline views are absolutely incredible, and you might spot some local fishing boats or even dolphins if you’re lucky.

Pack light but smart – a small daypack with essentials is perfect. While there’s drinking water available, I’d recommend bringing some snacks for the journey. And speaking of drinks, those $1 beers are perfect for a mid-journey refreshment, but remember to bring small bills.

Here’s a pro tip: if you’re doing the return journey, consider spending about 4 hours exploring Kep. It’s just enough time to visit the famous crab market, grab some fresh seafood lunch, and maybe take a quick dip at the beach before heading back.

Oh, and don’t forget to chat with Captain Mr. No – he’s got some fascinating stories about life on these waters, and his local knowledge is absolutely priceless. Just remember that the boat has a maximum capacity of 10 people, so during peak season, it’s worth booking in advance to secure your spot.

The journey takes roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes each way, which might seem long compared to road travel, but trust me – it flies by when you’re taking in those gorgeous coastal views. Plus, it’s actually a really authentic way to experience this beautiful stretch of Cambodia’s coastline, just like locals have been doing for generations.

Location

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