Travel Tips for Koh Samui to Donsak Ferry
- Crossing time 45m–1h
- Operators 2
- Departures a day 3
450+ THB
Schedules & prices
Pick-Up
Drop-Off
This trip is not available during the selected dates
How to get from Samui Island to Donsak
Koh Samui to Donsak Ferry
The Koh Samui to Donsak ferry is the main sea link between the island and mainland Surat Thani province, connecting Samui Island with Donsak. Most crossings run between Nathon Pier on Koh Samui and Donsak Pier (also written Don Sak) on the mainland, which is why travellers often search specifically for the Nathon Pier to Donsak Pier crossing when planning this leg of a Thailand island trip. This route is also known locally as เรือข้ามเกาะสมุย, the ferry that crosses to Koh Samui.
Operators and Boats on This Route
Three operators run this crossing: Lomprayah, Raja Ferry, and Seatran Ferry. Each runs a different mix of boats, from vehicle ferries that carry cars and motorbikes to faster catamarans for foot passengers only, and ferry is used depending on which operator and sailing you book. Onboard comfort and journey time vary by operator and boat type, so it's worth comparing sailings for the one that best fits your schedule and whether you're travelling with a vehicle. On-board onboard facilities are available depending on the operator and vessel.
Other Ways to Reach Donsak from Surat Thani
Travellers arriving by land have several options before boarding at Donsak Pier. Surat Thani has its own train station and bus terminal, both connected to Donsak Pier by shuttle buses and minivans that are often bundled with ferry tickets or bookable separately. Surat Thani Airport is also a common arrival point, with transfer services running to the pier. On the island side, Nathon Pier is the main gateway for the Donsak crossing, though Koh Samui has other piers too, including Bophut Pier and Big Buddha (Maenam) Pier, which mostly serve speedboat and catamaran links to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao rather than the Donsak route.
Journey Time, Price, and Schedule
The crossing takes around the scheduled journey time, with 3 available on this route and fares starting from ฿450 per person. Sailings run all year round, and exact departure times differ by operator, so it's best to check the live schedule on this page before booking rather than relying on a fixed timetable, since operators can adjust sailings seasonally or around weather conditions.
Booking Your Ferry to Koh Samui
Once you've picked a sailing, you can book your Lomprayah High Speed Ferries Co., Ltd. and Songserm Express Boat ferry ticket directly on this page, selecting your preferred departure time and passenger or vehicle details. If you're travelling on to Koh Phangan, most operators offer connecting boats from Donsak or via Koh Samui, so check combined tickets when you book. Planning the return leg is just as simple: use the Donsak to Koh Samui ferry page to book your journey back to the island.
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.
