How to Get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui by Ferry
Are you looking for the best ways to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui? Koh Samui is one of the best destinations in Thailand, and we wish we could have stayed longer. Take a scenic and enjoyable trip between the two islands by boat.
Getting to Koh Samui may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are a few ways to get there. You can get to Koh Samui by ferry, catamaran, private boat, or speedboat.
In this ultimate guide, you will find all the ways to get to Koh Samui, such as the cheapest and quickest way to travel, journey times, and how much a ferry ticket costs.
Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.
NO TIME TO READ NOW? PIN IT
Koh Phangan to Koh Samui Airport shuttle + ferry service
Koh Phangan Island has no airport, so you cannot travel by plane. Seatran Discovery, Lomprayah, and Songserm offer shuttle and ferry services between the islands. The combined shuttle and ferry ride takes about 2-3 hours and starts from 15 USD per person.
Book your tickets through 12Go or GetYourGuide.
Once you arrive at Koh Samui International Airport (airport code USM), direct flights depart to Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai.
TIP
Use Skyscanner to get cheap flights.
Koh Phangan to Koh Samui by Ferry
The only mode of transport between the two islands is by boat. You can choose to travel by standard ferry, catamaran, or speedboat.
- High-Speed Ferry: This is the most popular and cheapest way to get to Koh Samui. The journey time is usually 1-1.5 hours.
- Catamaran: Lomlahkkhirin and Lomprayah operate catamarans, and the journey time is approximately 30 minutes.
- Speedboat: The journey takes just 20 minutes but is more expensive than a standard ferry.
The ferries run several times a day from 08:00 to 19:30. Ferry schedules are subject to change, so always check the up-to-date timetable.
Raja Ferry offers a car ferry service. Currently, it is not available between Koh Phangan and Samui.
How long is the ferry ride from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui?
The ferry ride between the two islands usually takes 20-90 minutes, depending on the ports, waiting times, sea conditions, and the type of boat chosen.
How much is the ferry ticket from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui?
The cost of a ferry ticket can vary depending on the company, the type of boat, the port of departure/arrival, and whether you are traveling in high or low season.
Ferry tickets to Koh Samui cost between 7-22 USD per person. We recommend booking tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
Which piers on Koh Phangan have ferries to Koh Samui?
Ferries depart from different piers on Koh Phangan, such as Thong Sala Pier, Baan Tai Pier, and Phangan Haad Rin Queen Pier.
Where do the ferries arrive on Koh Samui?
Ferries to Koh Samui arrive at Bangrak Pier (close to Chaweng Beach), Nathon Pier, Petcherat Marina Pier, Maenam Pier, and Samui Haad Rin Queen Pier.
Are there shuttle + ferry services available?
Yes, you can book a transfer + ferry to Koh Samui Airport, which takes about 2-3 hours and costs 15 USD per person.
What should I bring on the boat?
- Sunscreen: You don’t have to worry about sun damage with this reef-friendly UVA/UVB sunscreen.
- Light Raincoat: Packable, lightweight, and waterproof raincoat with hood perfect for travel and hiking.
- Power bank: An essential accessory for anyone who needs reliable power on the go.
- Seasickness pills and personal medication
- Hat and sunglasses
- Snacks
- Extra water
- Earphones
- Cash (Local money or USD)
Where can I buy ferry tickets?
You can easily buy boat tickets at any port, but we recommend booking online with 12Go! As tickets sell out quickly during the high season, we suggest you buy them days in advance.
Koh Phangan to Koh Samui by Speedboat
The fastest way to get to Koh Samui is by speedboat. Several operators offer speedboat services between the two islands, such as Songserm, Lomprayah, Echo Travel, and Lomlahkkhirin.
The boat ride takes just 20 minutes. The price of a speedboat ticket ranges from 10 to 22 USD per person, depending on the operator. As it’s only a few dollars more expensive than a standard ferry, it’s a great way to save time.
Book your speedboat with 12Go.
Koh Phangan to Koh Samui Speedboat Timetable
- 08:00-08:20
- 08:05-08:30
- 11:00-11:20
- 12:30-12:50
- 12:30-13:00
- 15:00-15:20
- 17:30-17:50
- 18:00-18:30
- 19:30-19:50
Koh Phangan to Koh Samui by Private Boat
The most convenient way to travel to Koh Samui is by private transfer, especially when traveling in a group. Prices start from 165 USD for a private speedboat for up to 10 passengers, which costs around 16.5 USD per person.
These boats depart from Baan Tai Pier and arrive at Sub Somwang Plai Laem Pier. Travel time is approximately 1 hour.
Where to Stay in Koh Samui
There are many luxury hotels and resorts in Koh Samui, but accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.
Best hotels in Koh Samui
- Luxury: Melia Koh Samui or Banyan Tree Samui
- Mid-Range: The Lamai Samui
- Budget: So KohKoon Beach Resort
We stayed at the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui, which was a good base for exploring the island’s attractions.
We hope our post on how to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui will help you plan your next trip to Thailand. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
eSIM – Airalo
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Ferry/Transfer – 12Go
RECOMMENDED POSTS
9 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand
How to Visit Na Muang Waterfall in Koh Samui
