Ferries to Ko Tao
Ferries to Ko Tao
While the west coast of Thailand is known for ferries crossing the Andaman Sea, on the east coast, the Gulf of Thailand is home to a well-connected network of ferry routes. Here, youโll find the islands of Ko Tao, Ko Samui, and Ko Phangan, which are all located close to each other and linked by frequent ferry services.
For those traveling from the mainland, the most common departure points for ferries to Ko Tao are Surat Thani and Chumphon. Both cities are well-connected by train, bus, and even flights, making them convenient starting points for your journey to the island. Depending on the operator and type of boat, travel times and experiences can vary.
But first, letโs look at a map of Thailand's ferry routes, giving you a clear overview of the different crossings available across the country.ย
Map: Thailand ferry routes: crossings to the Thai Islands.
- Click on the ferry ports to see all crossings
In the following map, you can find several ferries on the southwestern coast of Thailand. Connecting Koh Samui to Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand and, on the other side, Koh Lanta, Phuket and Kho Phi Phi in the Andaman Sea. Bangkok lies to the north.
About the crossings to Ko Tao
As mentioned earlier we went on vacation in Thailand in early 2025 with our family. Amongst the crossings were the crossings to Ko Tao. You can find out more about our ferry experiences in this blog about ferrying through Thailand.
Popular Ferry Routes in Thailand
Gulf of Thailand (Eastern Side)
- Koh Samui โ Koh Phangan (30 min โ 1 hour)
- Koh Samui โ Koh Tao (1.5 โ 2 hours)
- Koh Phangan โ Koh Tao (1 โ 1.5 hours)
- Mainland (Surat Thani / Donsak Pier) โ Koh Samui (1.5 โ 2 hours)
Chumphon to Ko Tao
The Chumphon to Koh Tao ferry, operated by Lomprayah, is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach the island. The journey takes about 2 hours, covering 40 miles across the Gulf of Thailand, with up to four daily sailings. Departing from the Chumphon ferry pier, this route not only connects travelers to Koh Tao but also serves as a gateway to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, before looping back to the mainland near Surat Thani.
While traveling with Lomprayah Ferries can be a bit chaotic at times, the ferries themselves are comfortable and efficient. Given the high demand, especially during peak season, itโs best to book tickets in advance, as sales close 24 hours before departure, and ferries often sell out.
For those island-hopping, itโs important to pay attention to the correct ferry piers. In Koh Tao, ferries depart from Mae Haad Pier, with onward connections to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. If you're heading to Koh Samui, ferries dock at Nathon Pier, and from there, you can continue on to Raja Ferry Pier (Don Sak) on the mainland. The ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan takes about one hour, making it an easy way to explore multiple islands in one trip.
Tickets for the Chumphon to Koh Tao ferry cost around $22 per person, making it an affordable and scenic way to reach one of Thailandโs most famous island destinations. ๐ข๐๏ธ
Chumphon to Ko Tao
The Chumphon to Koh Tao ferry, operated by Lomprayah, is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach the island. The journey takes about 2 hours, covering 40 miles across the Gulf of Thailand, with up to four daily sailings. Departing from the Chumphon ferry pier, this route not only connects travelers to Koh Tao but also serves as a gateway to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, before looping back to the mainland near Surat Thani.
While traveling with Lomprayah Ferries can be a bit chaotic at times, the ferries themselves are comfortable and efficient. Given the high demand, especially during peak season, itโs best to book tickets in advance, as sales close 24 hours before departure, and ferries often sell out.
For those island-hopping, itโs important to pay attention to the correct ferry piers. In Koh Tao, ferries depart from Mae Haad Pier, with onward connections to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. If you're heading to Koh Samui, ferries dock at Nathon Pier, and from there, you can continue on to Raja Ferry Pier (Don Sak) on the mainland. The ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan takes about one hour, making it easy to explore multiple islands in one trip.
Tickets for the Chumphon to Koh Tao ferry cost around $22 per person, making it an affordable and great way to reach one of Thailandโs most famous island destinations.ย
On board, vessels & route maps
Surat Thani – Ko Tao ferries
The Koh Tao to Surat Thani ferry, operated by Lomprayah, is a key route for travelers heading back to the mainland. And vice versa. The journey takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, covering 50 miles, with up to four sailings per day. This ferry makes stops at Koh Phangan and Koh Samui before reaching Raja Ferry Pier (Don Sak), the main arrival point near Surat Thani.
Like many Lomprayah Ferries, this trip is efficient but slightly chaotic, so it's best to be prepared for a busy boarding process. Tickets range from $25 to $30 per person and should be booked at least 24 hours in advance, as online sales close a day before departure and seats often sell out, especially during peak season.
For those planning further travel through Thailand, Surat Thani serves as a convenient gateway to train stations, airports, and bus connections. From here, travelers can continue their journey to places like Bangkok, Krabi, or Phuket.
If you're planning island-hopping, taking a look at a ferry route map can help you understand the best connections between Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Surat Thani.ย
Inter Island ferries: Ko Tao – Ko Phangan and Ko Samui
The Koh Tao to Surat Thani ferry, operated by Lomprayah, is a key route for travelers heading back to the mainland. And vice versa. The journey takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, covering 50 miles, with up to four sailings per day. This ferry makes stops at Koh Phangan and Koh Samui before reaching Raja Ferry Pier (Don Sak), the main arrival point near Surat Thani.
Like many Lomprayah Ferries, this trip is efficient but slightly chaotic, so it's best to be prepared for a busy boarding process. Tickets range from $25 to $30 per person and should be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Online sales close a day before departure,ย and seats often sell out, especially during peak season.
Surat Thaniย is a convenient gateway toย train stations, airports, and bus connections for those planning further travel through Thailand. From here, travelers can continue their journey to Bangkok, Krabi, or Phuket.
If you're planning island-hopping, looking at a ferry route map can help you understand the best connections between Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Surat Thani.ย
Other crossings in Thailand:
Ferry Operators & ticket Booking
The routes to Ko Tao, Ko Samui en Ko Phangan
- Lomprayah High-Speed Catamarans (faster, more expensive)
- Seatran Discovery (comfortable, mid-range pricing)
- Raja Ferry (budget option, larger ferries for vehicles)
How to Book
- Tickets can be booked in the booking module below
- Prices vary based on season, speed, and operator.
- Some ferries allow vehicle transport, especially on mainland to Koh Samui routes.
Travel Tips & Considerations
- Book early in peak season (Nov โ April), as ferries fill up quickly.
- Sea conditions can affect schedules, especially during monsoon season (May-Oct).
- High-speed ferriesย are faster butย can be rough in bad weatherโtake motion sickness precautions if needed.
- Island hoppingย is easy, but plan connections carefully, as ferry schedules vary.
Key Booking Tips
- Book in advance – at least a few days ahead in high season, especially for popular routes like Koh Samui-Koh Tao or Phuket-Koh Phi Phi.
- Check ferry schedules early, as some routes have limited departures per day.
- Online booking is recommended – this ensures you have a confirmed ticket before arriving at the port.
- Donโt rely on same-day purchases – walk-in tickets may not be available, and some ticket counters close sales a day before departure.
By booking ahead, travelers can avoid the stress of sold-out ferries and enjoy a smooth journey between Thailandโs stunning islands.
Ferry Travel in Thailand
Thailand has a well-established ferry network, connecting major islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta. These ferries offer a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly mode of transport for island hopping.
Our platform provides expertise, informationย and route details. Travel options range from high-speed catamarans to standard ferries with seating.ย Timetables and availability vary based on season and weather conditions, so booking in advance is recommended.
