How to Get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao by Ferry

Are you looking for the best ways to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao? Most people only take a day trip, but if you have enough time, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days on this stunning island. Enjoy snorkeling, explore the most beautiful beaches, and admire the magnificent view from the Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint.

Getting to Koh Tao may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are a few ways to get there. You can get to Koh Tao by ferry, private boat, or speedboat.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll find all the ways to get to Koh Tao, including the cheapest and fastest mode of travel, journey times, and ferry ticket prices.

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Koh Samui Airport to Koh Tao transfer + ferry service

There is no airport on the island of Koh Tao. The nearest airport is in Koh Samui, the Samui International Airport (airport code USM). Most people arrive in Samui by plane from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, or Chiang Mai and then travel by ferry to Koh Tao.

TIP
Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights.

SmackOne offers van and ferry service from the airport to Koh Tao Pier. The combined shuttle and ferry ride takes about 3.5-4 hours and starts from 31.5 USD per person.

Book your combined ticket here.

Koh Samui to Koh Tao Day Trip

Explore Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan on this full-day trip. Swim and snorkel at Mango Bay (Ao Muong Beach) and Koh Nang Yuan, which are known for their beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Then, hike to the top of the mountain for stunning panoramic views.

The tour price includes hotel round-trip transfer, light breakfast & Thai-style buffet lunch, drinking water/soft drinks on board, snorkeling equipment, a life jacket, a First aid kit, basic accident insurance, and an English-speaking guide.

Book this excellent day tour via Viator or GetYourGuide.

Not all tours include the Koh Nang Yuan Island entrance fee, which costs 250 THB (7.5 USD) for adults and 120 THB (3.5 USD) for children.

Koh Samui to Koh Tao 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.

The cheapest ferry departs from Nathon Pier at 10:30 AM, and the ferry ticket costs 14 USD. This high-speed ferry takes about 4 hours to reach Koh Tao. A maximum of 20 kg of luggage is allowed per passenger.

The quickest way to get to Koh Tao is by catamaran or speedboat, which takes just 1.5 hours and costs 20 USD.

Get ferry tickets here.

Good to know
You must check in at the port at least 30 minutes before departure!

How long is the ferry ride from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?

The ferry ride between the two islands usually takes 1.5-4 hours, depending on the ports, waiting times, sea conditions, and the type of boat chosen.

How much is the ferry ticket from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?

The cost of a ferry ticket can vary depending on the company, the type of boat, the port of departure, and whether you are traveling in high or low season.

Ferry tickets to Koh Tao cost between 14-23 USD per person. We recommend booking tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

Get your ferry tickets via 12Go or Bookaway.

Which piers on Koh Samui have ferries to Koh Tao?

Ferries depart from Maenam Pier and Nathon Pier.

Where do the ferries arrive at Koh Tao?

Ferries to Koh Tao arrive at Mae Haad Pier.

Are there shuttle + ferry services available?

Yes, you can book a combined van/taxi + ferry from Koh Samui to Mae Haad Pier, which takes about 3.5-6 hours and costs 25 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 Samui to Koh Tao Ferry Schedule

The ferries run several times a day from 08:00 to 16:00.

08:00-09:30
10:30-14:15
10:30-14:30
11:00-13:30
11:30-14:15 *
12:15-14:15
12:30-14:00
14:30-16:00
14:30-17:45 *
16:00-17:30

* Catamaran + Speedboat. Passengers traveling to Koh Tao will transfer to another boat on Koh Phangan.

Ferry schedules are subject to change, so always check the up-to-date timetable.

Koh Samui to Koh Tao by Speedboat

Some operators, such as Songserm, Lomprayah, and Lomlahkkhirin, offer speedboat services between the islands. The journey from Maenam Pier to Mae Haad Pier takes approximately 1.5 hours, and the ferry ticket costs 20 USD.

Book your speedboat with 12Go.

Where to Stay in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island, so hotel options are limited. In high season, we strongly recommend booking in advance! These are our recommendations.

Best hotels in Koh Tao

Luxury: Jamahkiri Dive Resort & Spa
Mid-Range: Koh Tao Cabana or View Point Resort
Budget: DD Hut Koh Tao

more hotels in Koh Tao

We hope our post on how to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao will help you plan your next trip to Thailand. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.

More Travel Guides about Thailand

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
eSIM – Airalo
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Ferry/Transfer – 12Go

How to Get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao by Ferry