Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui Ferry: Times & Fares
From Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui
Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui Island: Bus and Ferry Guide
Travelling from Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island means combining two legs: an overland transfer from the airport to Donsak Pier, followed by a sea crossing to Koh Samui. This is the standard way to reach the island for travellers flying into Surat Thani, and it is sold as a single through-ticket so you do not need to arrange each leg separately.
This route does not run year-round. Services currently operate during selected months of the year, matching demand and sea conditions on the Donsak crossing. If you are searching outside this window, check the booking calendar before you fly in, since departures shown outside the season will not be available — in that case, plan an alternative airport transfer such as a taxi or minivan direct to a Koh Samui pier, or fly directly into Samui Airport instead.
How the journey works
The first leg is a road transfer by the available transport from Surat Thani Airport to Donsak Pier on the mainland coast, run by our transport partners. Onboard onboard facilities. At Donsak, passengers change onto a car and passenger ferry for the crossing to Koh Samui, arriving at the island's main pier. Some services route via alternative piers, such as Nathon or Lipa Noi, so it is worth checking your ticket for the exact arrival point if you have a specific hotel transfer booked afterwards.
Duration, frequency and price
The full airport-to-island journey, bus plus ferry combined, takes around the scheduled journey time. During the season there are regular departures departures a day, so you can generally match a transfer to your flight arrival time rather than waiting long at the airport. Fares start from our online fares for the combined bus and ferry ticket; exact pricing depends on operator, time of day and how far in advance you book, so always confirm the price shown at checkout before paying.
Booking your transfer
Because this is a seasonal, combined service, availability can sell out on popular flight arrival times, especially around midday when several flights land close together. Book your Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui bus and ferry ticket in advance to secure your preferred departure, and check the return leg on the Koh Samui to Surat Thani Airport ferry and bus schedule if you need a round trip. Selecting your travel date in the booking form will show you the live departures, seat availability and current fare for that day.
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.
