From Koh Tao to Koh Samui: Travel by Ferry
- Crossing time 1h 25m–3h 30m
- Operators 3
- Departures a day 9
500+ THB
Schedules & prices
Pick-Up
Drop-Off
This trip is not available during the selected dates
Transition from Koh Tao to Koh Samui by Ferry and Bus
From Koh Tao to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand's second-largest island. It is nestled in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a picturesque paradise famed for its palm-fringed beaches, lush mountainous rainforest, and charming coconut groves. This island captivates visitors. It possesses a blend of natural beauty and luxurious amenities. They include upscale spas and resorts for those seeking a lavish island experience. The east coast of Koh Samui is particularly renowned. Espescially for its beautiful beaches like Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach. Each offers unique landscapes and activities.
For travelers, the journey from Koh Tao to Samui island is an adventure in itself. Koh Tao, known as Tao Island, is a smaller but equally enchanting island famous for its coral reefs and diving spots. The trip between these islands can be made via various ferry services. They provide a scenic route across the waters of the Gulf. These ferry companies often offer combined bus and ferry tickets. This is perfect for a seamless travel experience. It is especially useful for those coming from Surat Thani Town or heading to Koh Samui Airport.
Once in Koh Samui, visitors can explore numerous attractions. The Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) stands as a majestic landmark. While the tranquil Wat Plai Laem Temple is known for its detailed and beautiful design.
Nature lovers will be drawn to the Na Muang Waterfalls. This is a breathtaking natural spectacle on the island. For a total experience, many opt for a day trip, which can include visits to various attractions and beaches.
The island's connections to nearby places like Don Sak also adds to its ease of access. It makes it a central point for exploring the surrounding islands and coastal towns. Whether it's a day spent lounging on the beach, exploring cultural landmarks, or hopping from island to island, Koh Samui offers a rich tapestry of experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Thailand.
From Koh Tao to Koh Samui by boat
Traveling from Koh Tao to Koh Samui presents limited options. Primarily because there are no direct flights or land routes connecting these islands. The main mode of transport is by sea, with ferry services being the most common and practical choice for this journey. These ferries offer regular schedules and are the go-to solution for travelers looking to move between the islands. This lack of variety in transportation might seem restrictive. But the ferry journey itself is an enjoyable experience. It showcases the beautiful marine landscape of the Thai Gulf.
From Mae Haad Pier to Nathon Pier
Traveling from Mae Haad Pier to Nathon Pier offers a scenic journey along the beautiful waters of Thailand. This route connects two bustling hubs. It provides travelers with a glimpse of the picturesque coastal landscapes and vibrant marine life of the region.
From Mae Haad Pier to Bangrak Pier
The journey from Mae Haad Pier to Bangrak Pier is a captivating experience, showcasing the stunning seascape of Thailand. This route not only connects travelers to key locations. It also offers breathtaking views of the island's serene beaches and crystal-clear waters.
From Mae Haad Pier to Maenam Pier
The voyage from Mae Haad Pier to Maenam Pier is a delightful trip across the tranquil waters of Thailand. It offers passengers a chance to witness the splendid natural beauty and serene coastal scenes of the region. This trip offers an easy and smooth way to get between these important places. It adds to the journey with lovely ocean views and a peaceful, sea-side feel.
From Koh Tao to Koh Samui by helicopter
Helicopters are like something out of a movie. They are often used by very important people or spies to get around quickly and with style. If you have the cash and want to experience this high-flying adventure, it's pretty easy to book a ride online. But there's a catch: helicopters aren't great for the environment, and here's why.
First off, they use a lot of fuel. Flying a helicopter, especially during takeoff and landing, consumes a lot of energy. It is one of the causes of air pollution. This kind of pollution is not only bad for the air we breathe but also adds to climate change.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Koh Samui is from December to February. During these months, the weather is usually dry, sunny, and not too hot. It is perfect for enjoying the beaches and exploring the island. March to August is also nice, but it gets a bit hotter, which is great for sunbathing and water sports.
However, from September to November, it's the rainy season. This means more rain and sometimes rough seas, which can change your plans, especially for outdoor activities. Keep in mind that around Christmas and New Year, the island is very busy with tourists. If you prefer a quieter visit with good weather, late January to April is a good choice. So, the best time really depends on what you like – sunny weather, fewer tourists, or enjoying the island's lively side.
We also welcome you to share here your own experiences with us.
If you have any questions or need assistance, we encourage you to visit our help page and leave a message. Your feedback is important to us, and we are here to assist you.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.
