Ferry Thailand Koh Samui: The Ultimate Guide
Arriving by ferry to Koh Samui is scenic, affordable, and often the most relaxed way to access island life. From mainland departures like Surat Thani or Donsak Pier to island hops, here’s everything you need to know.
Mainland to Koh Samui: Ferry Thailand Koh Samui
- Daily ferry operators: Songserm, Lomprayah, Seatran, Raja Ferry, and more.
- About 133 daily sailings—nearly 900 weekly—go to Koh Samui.
- From Surat Thani: 1.5–3.5 hours, ~300–400 THB. Lomprayah high-speed catamarans (~2.5 hrs) and traditional ferries offer slower, cheaper options.
- From Donsak Pier: Similar frequency with Lomprayah, Raja & Seatran services (~45 min–1 hr 30 min).
- Cars aren't allowed—foot passengers only.
Koh Tao to Koh Samui Ferry: Island Connection
- Up to 42 daily departures, from early morning through late evening—fastest crossing ~20 min, standard around 30–60 min.
- Operators: Lomprayah, Songserm, Seatran, Echo Travel, Lomlahkkhirin.
- Prices typically range from 300–400 THB for speedboats; slower services are cheaper.
- Sample departure: Bangrak Pier (Seatran Discovery) at 09:30 → Thong Sala (Phangan) in ~45 min.
Koh Samui to Koh Phangan Ferry: Island Hopping Ease
- Approximately 3.5 hrs by ferry from Koh Tao (Mae Haad Pier) to Samui’s Nathon Pier—6–7 sailings weekly.
- High-speed catamarans (e.g., Lomprayah) can shorten time to ~2 hrs.
- Prices range US $23–47 (~700–1,500 THB).
Comparison: Koh Samui Phangan & Tao Ferry Options
RouteOperatorsDurationApprox. PriceSamui → Phangan Lomprayah, Seatran, Songserm, Echo Travel 20–60 min 300–400 THB Samui → Tao Lomprayah, Songserm, Seatran 1.5–3.5 hrs 700–1,500 THB Mainland → Samui Lomprayah, Seatran, Raja, Songserm 45 min–4 hrs 300–400 THB
Arrival Experience at 79 Beach Club & Resort
- Bangrak Pier: Just a 5-minute walk from the pier—perfect for Samui→Phangan/Tao transfers.
- Nathon Pier: Roughly 20 min away by taxi.
- Service Support: 79 provides concierge options—ferry booking assistance, onward island travel help, and local transfers.
- Start Your Escape: Arrive and slip into wellness with beachfront yoga, plunge pools, energizing cocktails, and gourmet bites.
Insider Tips for Ferry Travelers
- Book in Advance in High Season: December–April and holiday weekends fill quickly—secure seats early.
- Choose Departure Pier Carefully: Use Bangrak Pier for 79’s convenience, especially early AM or late PM sailings.
- Minimize Seasickness Risk: Speedboats are quicker but rougher; opt for catamarans if sensitive.
- Arrive Early: Check-in is 30 min before departure; arrive earlier during busy periods.
- Protect Your Tech: Bring waterproof bags for phones, cameras, and chargers.
