From Phuket to Koh Tao: Ferry & Travel Tips
- Crossing time 8h 15m
- Operators 1
- Departures a day 1
1,600+ THB
Schedules & prices
Pick-Up
Drop-Off
This trip is not available during the selected dates
How to get from Phuket to Tao Island
Ferry from Phuket to Koh Tao
Travelling from Phuket to Tao Island means crossing from the Andaman coast to the Gulf of Thailand, so there is no single direct boat that covers the whole distance. Most travellers combine a coach or minivan transfer with a ferry leg for the final crossing, and the connection is sold as one through ticket so you only book once. The full journey takes around the scheduled journey time, and tickets start from ฿1,600 depending on the operator and class you choose.
Route overview: departure and arrival points
Boats and transfers on this route are run by Lomprayah High Speed Ferries Co., Ltd., using a bus and ferry for the sea crossing. Onboard facilities typically include onboard facilities, which makes the longer overland-and-sea combination more comfortable. Departure points in Phuket are usually the main piers or the operator's transfer office, with arrival at Koh Tao's Mae Haad pier. Exact pick-up locations are confirmed on your ticket once you book.
Schedule and how often boats run
There are 1 departures available on this route, and the connecting timetable is shown at checkout so you can match your coach transfer to the correct ferry sailing. Because this route relies on a transfer plus a ferry leg, clock times vary by operator and by day, so always check the live schedule when booking rather than relying on a fixed departure time. The route generally runs all year round, though it's worth confirming operating dates for your travel month, especially outside the main season.
Booking your ticket
Prices, seat availability and the exact combination of transfer and ferry change with demand, so it's best to compare current options and lock in your seats early, particularly around weekends and holidays. You can check live times and fares and book your Phuket to Koh Tao ferry ticket directly online.
Connecting to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan
Koh Tao sits close to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, and many transfer routes from Phuket pass through or near these islands. If you plan to island-hop, check the Phuket to Koh Samui ferry route or the Phuket to Koh Phangan ferry route for onward or alternative connections, since sailing frequency between the Gulf islands varies by operator and season rather than following a fixed interval. It's worth checking the live inter-island schedule at booking time rather than assuming a set frequency.
Returning from Koh Tao to Phuket
If you're planning the trip in the other direction, the Koh Tao to Phuket ferry route page has the matching schedule, operators and prices for the return journey.
Good to know before you travel
- This is a combined transfer-and-ferry route, not a single direct boat, so allow time between connections.
- Luggage space is generally sufficient for standard backpacks and suitcases, but check with Lomprayah High Speed Ferries Co., Ltd. if you're travelling with oversized items.
- Booking ahead is recommended in high season, as popular transfer times can sell out.
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.
