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Journey from Koh Phangan to Phuket by Ferry and Bus

Key facts
  • Crossing time 7h 30m–9h
  • Operators 2
  • Departures a day 3
Sailing season This route sails all year round.

890+ THB

From Koh Phangan to Phuket

Aerial view of a large white seated Buddha statue on a forested hilltop above Phuket's coast and turquoise sea

From Koh Phangan to Phuket: A Journey by Ferry and Bus 

The journey from the serene Koh Phangan to the bustling Phuket town is a mesmerizing experience, offering a blend of scenic views over the Gulf of Thailand and cultural exploration. Covering the Koh Phangan to Phuket distance of approximately 350 kilometers, this article guides you through the journey, emphasizing the ease and beauty of traveling by ferry and bus.

How to Get to Phuket  


Your adventure begins at
Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan, where ferries depart amidst a backdrop of stunning seascapes. Enjoy the sea breeze and gaze at the Gulf of Thailand as you embark on a ferry service to Nathon Pier on the picturesque Samui Island. These popular routes often include services like Lomprayah High Speed Ferries Co., Ltd.  and Raja Ferry, which operates car ferries, ensuring a convenient journey. 

After reaching Nathon Pier, take another ferry from Koh Samui to Donsak Pier. This leg of the journey allows you to witness the beauty of Thailand’s coastal regions. From Donsak, a shared minivan brings you to Surat Thani Town. This part of the trip, lasting about 30 minutes, offers glimpses of rural Thailand and its charming vistas.

Next, board a bus from Surat Thani, located near Surat Thani Airport, to Phuket Town’s Vichit Bus Station. This final stretch introduces you to the diverse landscapes of Southern Thailand.

Things to Know About Phuket  

In Phuket Town, experience a vibrant blend of culture and modernity. Phuket, known for its lively markets, exquisite food stalls, and historic sites, is a hub of activity and tradition.

Things to Do in Phuket and Around  

While in Phuket, explore landmarks like the Big Buddha, stroll through the old town, and savor local delicacies at various food stalls. The island is also ideal for excursions to nearby attractions, with numerous ferry companies offering trips to surrounding islands. Be sure to book your ferry ticket in advance to secure your spot on popular routes.

Traveling from Koh Phangan to Phuket by ferry and bus is an enriching experience, combining comfort, convenience, and the beauty of the Thai landscape. This route, easily booked online, is a testament to Thailand’s efficient and tourist-friendly travel system. The company operates several services to ensure your journey is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Travel FAQ  

- How many operators offer services on this route? 1 operator(s) is/are offering services on these popular routes.

- How many departures are offered each day? 1 departure(s) per day.

- What time does the first trip of the day leave? The first trip leaves at 11:00 AM.

- How long is the shortest trip time? The shortest trip time is 7h 30m.

- What is the cost of this journey? The lowest price per person is 1,600 THB.

LiVa Tips  

Advance Bookings: Use online platforms to book ferry services and bus tickets beforehand, especially during peak travel seasons.

Comfort Essentials: Carry sun protection and water for the ferry rides; enjoy the air conditioning on board for a comfortable trip.

Explore Local Eats: Try the diverse array of food at the food stalls in both Phuket Town and Koh Phangan.

Cultural Insights: Visit the Big Buddha and other cultural sites in Phuket for a deeper understanding of the local heritage.

Airport Proximity: Remember that Surat Thani Airport is conveniently located for those considering air travel before or after the ferry journey.

Stay Connected: Ensure you have a local SIM card or mobile data plan to stay connected during your journey. This will be invaluable for real-time updates on ferry schedules, navigating to and from ports, and accessing online booking confirmations.

We also welcome you to share here your own experiences with us.

If you have any questions or need assistance, we encourage you to visit our help page and leave a message. Your feedback is important to us, and we are here to assist you.



FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?

At the pier named on your ticket, look for the staff of the ferry operator listed on your ticket as well. Please present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device—they’ll provide you with a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers have staff available to help load your luggage. In Koh Samui, staff are usually stationed at booths near the boarding area; at other locations, they’re typically near the boats, wearing their company uniforms.

 

 

Do I need to print my ferry ticket or is mobile ok?

You don't need to print your ticket. On the day of travel, simply present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device to the ferry operator staff at the pier named on your ticket—they'll give you a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat.

If you'd prefer a printed copy, you can register as a member on our site, which allows you to easily print out your e-tickets and VAT receipts.

What happens if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?

If your trip is cancelled due to bad weather, you can choose between receiving a refund or rescheduling your journey.

Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip. Also keep in mind that speedboats are more likely to be cancelled than ferries, as ferries can usually operate in the rain except in extremely bad weather — though journeys may take a little longer during storms or strong winds.

To arrange your refund or new travel date, please click the refund button in your personal Liva account.

What are the baggage allowances?

Your ferry e-ticket includes ferry transport, baggage fees, and handling. The free baggage allowance per person is 20–25 kg, depending on the operator. If your baggage exceeds this limit, you can pay the extra fee directly to the ferry operator in cash.

To check the baggage allowance for your specific trip, please refer to the trip details for your selected route.

Can I change the date of my ticket?

Yes, you can change your trip date as long as you provide notice at least 24, 48, or 72 hours before departure—the exact timeframe depends on the ferry operator you booked with. A small service fee of 200 baht per person applies for a second change.

Please note:

  • Changes must be for the same operator and boat type as your original booking.

  • The change applies to the entire booking; for example, if your booking is for 3 passengers, we cannot change the date or time for just one of them.

To proceed, please click the chat button to connect with one of our customer service agents, or use any of the official channels listed in the footer of our website.

Warning: Please do not send requests by replying directly to the booking confirmation email, as this is not an official support channel.
 

Bali Ferry :

Yes, you can.  The change is required 7 days' notice prior to departure date. There is a small fee of USD $10 applied per time. Please click the chat button to speak with one of our customer service agents who will take you through the simple booking change process.

If I miss my ferry, can I take the next one?

Unfortunately, it is not possible. Tickets will expire for late arrivals and are strictly non-refundable and non-changeable.

To avoid missing your trip, please plan to arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure to allow enough time for check-in and boarding.

If you do happen to miss your ferry and wish to travel as soon as possible, contact us right away, and we’ll advise you on the best available options.

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