Dock Officially Opened for Tourist Boats

A dock for tourist boats, located near CDC parks, Tonle Sap River, Daun Penh District's Wat Phnom commune, right between pumping station of Water Work Authority and Tonle Sap Restaurant about 230m, was finally inaugurated on 18 Feb, 2012, presided over by Mr. NOUN Someth, Phnom Penh Deputy Governor.

Mrs. KIM Sovann, Acting Director of Phnom Penh Tourism Department mentioned that this new dock is a mobile floating one which is 26m x 5m and roofed-2 storeys with open space on first floor, and bathroom installed. The upper floor is also open space with lounges, information and ticket rooms. From river bank to the boat, it is connected by a bridge, 44m x 1,50m, which can be floated by the ebb and flow of the river.

Currently, the new habor could load 64 boats and managed by the Association of Tourist Boats which compost of 10 members in charge of the organizing of order, sanitation and other services for tourists, and those members also wear traditional outfit. Furthermore, the association also prepares emergency boats if any boat got any problem. 

In that occasion, Mr. NOUN Someth appreciated and expressed his contention over the launch of this tourist port, initiated by Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Association of Tourist Boats. He mentioned that the port is good in terms of both historical and geographical aspects. Geographically, it is in line with Phnom Penh development master plan which focuses on environment protection and improvement of tourist spots along the river, and historically, this port was a place for daily bathing of the Granny Daun Penh and also for the exchange of business.

Finally, he recommended that in order for the new port to operate smoothly, it requires not only the ensure of security and safety for tourists, but also the proper ticket fee and schedule to avoid the impact on social moral and dignity. 

Source - phnompenh.gov.kh