Exploring Cambodia’s Waters: Ioori Smirnov’s Journey from Seafood to Luxury Marine Adventures
For expats living in Cambodia or those considering a move, unique opportunities and ventures abound. The country’s evolving landscape presents a mix of challenges and rewards, particularly for those with an entrepreneurial mindset. One such expat, Ioori Smirnov, has transformed his expertise in investment, real estate, and technical consulting into an exciting marine tourism venture. From managing seafood exports to launching high-end sea expeditions, Ioori’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability.
Q: Can you tell us about your business and how it started?
I have always been drawn to startups and complex projects, and this passion led me to Cambodia, guided by friends and partners with deep diplomatic and business ties in Southeast Asia.
From Seafood to Sea Adventures
In 2015, I became an investor and co-founder of a full-cycle seafood enterprise, partnering with a Cambodian professional with 20 years of experience in crab meat production. We specialized in catching, processing, and exporting Swimming Blue Crab (Portunus Pelagicus). To ensure sustainability and quality, we invested in motor schooners and implemented international food safety standards. However, the pandemic and my partner’s passing forced a halt in operations.
Rather than walk away, I transformed the boats for tourism and scientific expeditions. By 2022, the first schooner, “Sisters M,” was fully rebuilt and operational. The second, “IRINA,” is in its final stages. This shift marked the launch of MareAstra, a company specializing in luxury sea tourism, scientific expeditions, and professional marine consulting.
Q: How long has your business been operational, and what is your vision for the future?
Since April 2022, we have been offering sea tours, but my long-term vision extends beyond tourism. My dream is to develop and operate Cambodia’s first A-class marina in Sihanoukville, expand our fleet, and diversify maritime services. Cambodia lacks proper marina infrastructure, which significantly slows private marine activity.
I want to change that by bringing international expertise in development and management. At the same time, I’m passionate about restoring Cambodia’s beaches, which are increasingly affected by pollution. Sustainability is not just a goal—it’s a necessity.
Q: What is the best thing about your business?
The best part of my work is merging romance with pragmatism. MareAstra provides an opportunity for people to experience untouched paradise, discover new horizons, and create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s an island-hopping adventure or a scientific marine expedition, every trip is unique.
Q: Why should people choose your service?
We don’t claim to be the best—but our strengths speak for themselves:
- Reliability & professionalism
- Experience & top-tier service
- Unmatched comfort & VIP treatment for all
- Custom cruise planning for any budget
We offer much more than simple boat trips; our services include expert marine consulting, luxury island tours, and tailored experiences for both individuals and businesses.
Q: How does your business benefit the community and diversify activities in Cambodia?
Ah, the classic rhetorical question. I could channel a wise movie hero and say, “We do good – you do good.” Or I could launch into a grand lecture on how tourism boosts GDP, creates jobs, improves education, and elevates personal financial well-being.
But let’s be honest—that’s obvious, and I’ll spare you the TED Talk. Bottom line? More boats, more adventures, and more opportunities for people to experience the stunning side of Cambodia. Everyone wins.
Q: What do you love most about Cambodia, and what keeps you here?
Cambodia has a unique business environment. It’s a place where you can innovate, take risks, and shape the future. I appreciate the strong sense of family, welcoming locals, deep ties to nature, and the relatively open business climate. There’s also a pioneering spirit here—a mix of adventure and practicality that makes doing business exciting. It’s not always easy, but that’s part of the appeal.
For those seeking to explore Cambodia’s waters in style or looking for expert marine consulting, MareAstra is ready to set sail. Whether you’re an expat in search of a new experience or a visitor wanting to see Cambodia from a fresh perspective, the sea is calling.
Get in touch:
+855 889907777(Telegram/WhatsApp) Khmer/English
+855 86367000 (Telegram) Khmer/English
+855 973284499 (Telegram) English/Russian
+1 646 338 2185 (WhatsApp) English/Russian
Email: mareastrasea@gmail.com
Website: https://mareastra.com
 | Cambodia |
 | https://www.cambodialifestyle.com |
 | +855 9 678 01791 |
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
