Island hopping between Koh Samui, Koh Phangan (famed for its Full Moon Party and tranquil yoga bays), and Koh Tao (the scuba diving capital of Southeast Asia) is straightforward with frequent high-speed catamarans and public passenger ferries operating daily across the Gulf of Thailand.
Ferry Routes, Duration & Ticket Prices
| Route | Operator | Travel Time | Approximate Cost (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samui to Koh Phangan (Thong Sala) | Lomprayah / Seatran | 20 – 30 minutes | 350 – 450 THB ($10–$13 USD) |
| Samui to Koh Phangan (Haad Rin) | Haad Rin Queen | 50 minutes | 300 THB ($9 USD) |
| Samui to Koh Tao (Mae Haad Pier) | Lomprayah High Speed | 1 hour 30 mins – 2 hours | 600 – 750 THB ($17–$21 USD) |
Key Ferry Piers on Koh Samui
- Bangrak Pier & Petcherat Pier (Near Airport / Chaweng): The most convenient departure point for travelers staying in Chaweng, Bophut, or Choeng Mon, serviced by Lomprayah and Seatran Discovery.
- Maenam Pier (Pralan Pier): Located in the north of Samui, offering fast Lomprayah catamaran departures to Phangan and Koh Tao.
- Nathon Pier (West Coast): The island's main commercial port for large car ferries (Songserm, Seatran) connecting to the mainland (Donsak Pier).
Full Moon Party Tip: If traveling to Koh Phangan for the monthly Full Moon Party at Haad Rin, book your return speedboat ticket in advance or take the scheduled Haad Rin Queen ferry from Sunset Pier (Bangrak) directly onto Haad Rin beach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do ferries operate in bad weather?
During the monsoon season (October–November), strong swells may cause delays or cancellations. High-speed catamarans like Lomprayah handle open ocean crossings comfortably, but carrying motion sickness medication (Dimenhydrinate, available at any 7-Eleven) is recommended.
Can I bring large luggage on the ferry?
Yes. Ferry tickets include standard luggage handling. Staff will load and tag your suitcases on the lower deck upon boarding.
