ThailandKnowledge

Koh Samui to Koh Tao

Compare all transport options — cost, duration, frequency, and which to choose.

Best Option for Most Travellers

Lomprayah direct catamaran from Maenam or Na Thon Pier — fastest and most reliable. Book 1–2 days ahead in peak season as boats fill quickly.

All Transport Options

Lomprayah Catamaran (direct)

฿600–700
Duration1h 30m
Frequency2–3 daily

Direct catamaran from Na Thon Pier (Samui) or Maenam Pier to Koh Tao. Fastest and most convenient. Departs approximately 8am and 12:30pm. Book in advance in peak season.

Lomprayah via Koh Phangan

฿600–700
Duration2 hours
FrequencyMultiple daily

Same price but calls at Thong Sala, Koh Phangan for 15–20 minutes en route. Some departures go via Haad Rin (Hat Rin) instead. Check the specific route when booking.

Seatran Discovery

฿500–650
Duration2 hours
Frequency2–3 daily

Similar service from Bangrak Pier (north Samui). Good alternative to Lomprayah with slightly lower prices.

Who runs Koh Samui to Koh Tao

Operators publishing this route on their own site. Booking direct is usually cheaper than through an agent.

  • Lomprayah High Speed Ferries

    checked 2026-08-21

    High-speed catamaran, with connecting coach

    Publishes a full 2026 timetable; book direct rather than through a beach-front agent.

    Book direct

Where you actually leave from and arrive

The transport infrastructure mapped at each end. Distances are straight-line from the town centre, not travel time — in Bangkok in particular the two are very different.

Koh Samui

  • Samui Airport(USM)· Airport7 km
  • Bus Terminal· Bus station8 km
  • Haad Rin Queen Big Buddha Pier· Ferry pier7 km

Koh Tao

  • Samui Airport(USM)· Airport66 km
  • Lomprayah Koh Tao Pier· Ferry pier2 km

© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL. Harvested 2026-08-01.

Tips & Things to Know

  • 1

    Allow extra time getting to the pier from your hotel — Samui roads can be slow, particularly at Chaweng. Book a taxi or Grab in advance for early morning departures.

  • 2

    Diving packages are often bookable in advance from Koh Samui travel agents — some include return transfers to Koh Tao and dive course fees.

  • 3

    Weather can cause cancellations between October and January on this crossing. Have a day of flexibility if travelling during the Gulf monsoon season.

Disclaimer

Transport fares, schedules, and operators change frequently. Always verify current timetables and prices before your trip. Prices shown are approximate and may vary by season, operator, and booking platform.

Frequently Asked Questions