Tao Island to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town: Tickets & Schedules
How to get from Tao Island to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town
Ferry Travel from Koh Tao to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town
Travelling from Tao Island to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town connects the diver's island of Koh Tao with the mainland gateway of Nakhon Si Thammarat Town. There is no direct pier-to-pier service: boats from Koh Tao first call at a mainland hub, usually Chumphon or Surat Thani, where passengers transfer onward by road to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town. The same ferries that serve this route also connect Koh Tao with the neighbouring islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, so travellers island-hopping through the Gulf of Thailand can combine stops along the way.
Seasonal Availability
This route does not operate year-round. Services run during selected months of the year, reflecting sea conditions and demand in the Gulf of Thailand. If you are searching outside the season, check back closer to those dates, or consider travelling via Koh Tao to Chumphon or Koh Tao to Surat Thani, both of which have onward transport links to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town outside these months.
Operators, Boats, and Journey Time
our transport partners operates this route using the available transport, with onboard facilities including onboard facilities. The full journey, including the transfer at the mainland hub, typically takes around the scheduled journey time, though this can vary depending on connection times and weather. During the season, there are regular departures to choose from, giving some flexibility around when you set off.
Departure and Arrival Points
Ferries depart from Koh Tao's main pier and arrive at the mainland hub port, where a connecting transfer completes the journey to Nakhon Si Thammarat Town. Exact pier details and transfer arrangements are confirmed at the time of booking, so it's worth checking these when you reserve your ticket.
Prices and Booking
Fares on this route start from our online fares, though prices can change according to operator, season, and how far in advance you book. Because this is a seasonal route with a mainland transfer, we recommend booking ahead once the season opens to secure your preferred sailing time. For the return journey, see the ferry schedule from Nakhon Si Thammarat Town to Koh Tao.
Ready to travel? Check current availability and confirm your sailing dates before booking your ticket for this route.
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.
