Koh Samui to Surat Thani Town Ferry: Times & Fares
How to get from Samui Island to Surat Thani Town
Ferry from Koh Samui to Surat Thani Town – Schedules, Prices, and Travel Tips
Traveling from Koh Samui to Surat Thani town offers a scenic and convenient option to reach mainland Thailand. Whether you're heading to Surat Thani airport or continuing your journey across southern Thailand, ferry services provide a reliable and comfortable mode of transport. This guide will cover everything you need to know about ferry operators, ferry times, schedules, prices, and how to connect to bus services for your onward travel.
Koh Samui to Surat Thani Town: Ferry Schedule and price
Travelers departing from Koh Samui have multiple ferry options, with operators like Lomprayah High Speed Ferries, Raja Ferry Express, and Seatran Ferry offering regular services from Nathon Pier or Maenam Pier on Koh Samui to Tapee Pier or Donsak Pier in Surat Thani. Depending on your arrival pier, you’ll have access to easy connections to Surat Thani airport and other destinations.
- Lomprayah High Speed Ferries: This operator is known for its fast and efficient service, with ferries departing from Nathon Pier or Maenam Pier. Tickets range from 600 to 700 THB. The journey time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Raja Ferry Express: This budget-friendly option departs from Nathon Pier and arrives at Donsak Pier for a bus services transfer to Tapee Pier in Surat Thani Town. Raja Ferry offers affordable ferries with prices starting from 500 THB. The ferry ride takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- Seatran Ferry: Another reliable option, Seatran Ferries operate from Maenam Pier, offering competitive pricing around 400 THB. They provide a comfortable experience for travelers looking to cross to Surat Thani quickly.
The ferry times are typically scheduled throughout the day, ensuring flexibility for travelers. It's important to check the current ferry schedules before booking, as sea conditions can affect timings, especially during the monsoon season.
Many travelers opt for bus services, which depart from Surat Thani town to the Surat Thani airport or onward to destinations like Krabi, Phuket, or Bangkok. These buses are convenient and usually depart soon after ferry arrivals, ensuring a smooth connection.
Departure and Check-In Instructions
Ferries departing from Nathon Pier, Maenam Pier, and Donsak Pier are well-organized, ensuring a smooth boarding process. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seats, making the journey pleasant and relaxing., but they can get crowded during peak season. It’s recommended that passengers arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure to complete the check-in process. Lomprayah High Speed Ferries and Seatran Ferry have designated check-in counters at the pier, where passengers can show their confirmation and receive boarding passes.
Piers are often bustling with travelers, especially during the high season, so arriving early is essential to ensure a hassle-free experience. It’s also worth checking ferry times on the day of travel, as weather conditions can sometimes cause delays.
Important Travel Information
- Luggage: Most ferries have a generous luggage allowance, though it’s always good to confirm the specific baggage policies with your operator. Larger items such as bikes or surfboards may incur an extra charge.
- Transfers from Tapee Pier and Donsak Pier: Upon arrival, local taxis and buses are readily available to take passengers to Surat Thani town, Surat Thani airport, or other destinations in southern Thailand. Some ferry tickets even include transfer services, so make sure to check your booking.
- Travel Time and Conditions: Ferry times are generally punctual, but it’s always a good idea to check the weather conditions, especially during the rainy season (May-October), when rough seas may cause delays or cancellations.
Final Thoughts on Traveling from Koh Samui to Surat Thani Town
Whether you're planning a quick transfer to Surat Thani airport or continuing your journey to other parts of Thailand, traveling by ferry from Koh Samui to Surat Thani is an excellent option. With various operators, frequent ferry times, and affordable pricing, you can enjoy a smooth trip across the Gulf of Thailand. Book early to secure your preferred time and enjoy the convenience of ferry and bus services to your next destination.
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.
