Are you wondering how much is the ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui? Whether you’re a tourist passing through or an expat living in Thailand, the crossing is a must to reach the island. Ferry prices vary depending on the company, comfort level, duration, and whether you’re traveling with a vehicle.
In this guide, we break down the schedules, average costs, departure piers, and the best options to book your tickets at the best value for money. Hop on board for a practical and budget-friendly trip to Koh Samui!
💡 Good to know before boarding
- Duration: 1h15 to 2h depending on the type of boat
- Average fare: 220 to 600 THB ($6–17)
- Main piers: Donsak Pier, Tapee Pier
- Booking: highly recommended during high season
Average ticket prices
The price of a ferry between Surat Thani and Koh Samui depends on the operator, the type of boat, and the services included. Standard ferries are the most economical, while high-speed catamarans offer more comfort and save time. Here’s a comparison to help you choose:
- ⚡ Lomprayah = fastest trip (no vehicle).
- 🚗 Seatran = best choice if traveling with car or scooter.
- 💰 Raja = cheapest adult ticket.
Ferries from Raja and Seatran are ideal for a budget-friendly trip, especially if you bring a car or scooter. If you’re looking for speed and comfort, Lomprayah catamarans are unbeatable, although a bit more expensive.
Tips to book at the best price
The cost of a Surat Thani – Koh Samui ferry varies depending on the season, the company, and the type of ticket. To travel with the best value for money, here are some practical tips:
- Book your tickets online: fares are often cheaper than at the pier, and you avoid long queues.
- Plan ahead during high season: from December to April and in July–August, ferries are in high demand. Thai holidays like Songkran or Chinese New Year are especially busy.
- Compare operators: Raja and Seatran offer lower prices, while Lomprayah focuses on speed and comfort.
- Choose a combined bus + ferry ticket if you’re arriving at Surat Thani airport or train station. These packages include the transfer and are more convenient.
- Travel midweek: departures from Monday to Thursday are usually cheaper and less crowded than weekends.
- Watch for special deals: some companies offer discounts for families, groups, or expats living in Thailand.
💡 Traveler’s tip
- Some Samui hotels provide a free transfer from the pier on arrival.
- An open return ticket is often available: handy if you haven’t decided on your departure date yet.
- Multi-island passes (Samui – Phangan – Tao) are cheaper than buying separate tickets.
Ferry duration & schedules
The Surat Thani – Koh Samui crossing takes on average between 1h15 by high-speed catamaran and 2h by standard ferry. There are multiple departures daily, making it easy to match your arrival in Surat Thani whether by plane, bus, or train.
Tip: book in advance during high season (Dec–Mar, Jul–Aug).
👉 If you arrive at Surat Thani airport, many bus + ferry transfers are synchronized with domestic flights from Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai. This way, you can board directly without waiting hours at the pier.
Where to take the ferry to Koh Samui from Surat Thani?
Most ferries to Koh Samui depart from Donsak Pier, about 60 km from Surat Thani city. It’s the main embarkation point, used by Raja Ferry and Seatran Ferry. Some companies, like Lomprayah, also use Tapee Pier or other secondary piers depending on schedule and season.
- Donsak Pier: main port, suitable for cars and scooters, with restaurants and ticket offices.
- Tapee Pier: closer to Surat Thani city center, used by some high-speed catamarans.
- Convenient connection: bus transfers available from Surat Thani airport, railway station, and bus terminal.
👉 To better plan your trip, here’s a map of Surat Thani departure ports:
If you arrive directly at Surat Thani airport, most companies offer combined bus + ferry tickets. You’ll be picked up at the airport exit, then driven to the pier before boarding the boat to the island.
Ferry with car or scooter
If you’re traveling with your own vehicle, two main operators handle cars and scooters between Surat Thani and Koh Samui: Raja Ferry and Seatran Ferry. Prices vary depending on vehicle size and always include the driver.
Tip: book your tickets at the same time as the passenger ticket to avoid queues.
👉 Vehicles are parked on the lower deck of the ferry, while passengers go to the lounges with seating and sometimes a cafeteria. It is recommended to arrive at the pier at least 45 minutes before departure to board smoothly.
💡 Good to know when traveling with a vehicle
- Tickets always include the driver; passengers pay separately.
- Scooters must have the tank nearly empty for safety reasons.
- Parking on Koh Samui is free in most beaches and villages.
Combined tickets (bus + ferry)
Many companies offer combined bus + ferry tickets, an ideal solution if you arrive by plane, train, or bus in Surat Thani. These tickets include the transfer to Donsak Pier and then the ferry crossing to Koh Samui. This saves you the hassle of arranging separate transport.
Durations may vary depending on season and traffic. Book in advance during high season (Dec–Mar & Jul–Aug).
👉 These packages are especially convenient for tourists and expats who want to reach Samui stress-free. Transfers are scheduled to match flight and train arrivals, ensuring smooth connections with ferries.
Speed boats and catamarans
To save time, high-speed catamarans are the best option between Surat Thani and Koh Samui. The Lomprayah company is the most well-known, offering modern speed boats that reach the island in just 1h15. This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to minimize travel time.
- Duration: around 1h15 (compared to 2h for a standard ferry).
- Price: 550 THB (~$15) per adult.
- Comfort: air-conditioned seating, luggage space, drinks sold on board.
- Downside: no transport for cars or scooters.
👉 Speed boats are more expensive but very popular among travelers who want to arrive quickly in Koh Samui. During high season, it is strongly recommended to book your tickets in advance to guarantee a seat.
💡 Good to know
- Lomprayah catamarans also connect to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao from Surat Thani.
- Crossings are faster but can be choppier in rough seas.
- No night service: departures only take place during the day.
Ferry Surat Thani – Koh Tao
From Surat Thani, you can also reach Koh Tao, an island famous for diving and pristine beaches. Most companies offer a multi-stop route, with stops at Koh Samui and Koh Phangan before arriving in Koh Tao.
- Total duration: 4h30 to 6h depending on stops and operator.
- Average price: 900 – 1,200 THB (~$24–32).
- Companies: Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery.
- Services: air-conditioned seating, snacks on board, possibility of combined ticket from Surat Thani airport.
👉 Here’s an overview of the main stages of a crossing to Koh Tao:
- Surat Thani (bus + ferry)
- Koh Samui (possible stop)
- Koh Phangan (stop or transfer)
- Koh Tao (final arrival)
This island-hopping connection in the Gulf of Thailand is perfect for travelers planning a Samui – Phangan – Tao combined trip. Many local agencies offer multi-destination passes including transfers and ferries.
FAQ
How long is the crossing?
The crossing takes between 1h15 on a high-speed catamaran and 2h on a standard ferry, depending on the company and weather conditions.
Where to take the ferry in Surat Thani?
Departures are mainly from Donsak Pier, about 60 km from Surat Thani city. Some companies also depart from Tapee Pier for speed boats.
Should you book in advance?
Yes, especially in high season and during Thai public holidays. Tickets can be booked online or via local agencies.
Can you travel with a car or scooter?
Yes, but only with Raja Ferry and Seatran Ferry. The price for a standard car is about 600 THB (~$16), and for a scooter between 150 and 180 THB (~$4–5).
Is there a night ferry?
No, there are no night crossings between Surat Thani and Koh Samui. All departures are during the day, between 05:00 and 19:00 depending on the operator.
How much is a combined bus + ferry ticket?
The price ranges from 450 to 650 THB (~$12–18) from Surat Thani airport or train station. This is the most convenient option for travelers arriving by plane or train.
Are there baggage fees?
No, standard luggage is included in the ticket price. Extra fees may apply for bulky items (surfboard, diving gear, etc.).
Can you reach other islands from Surat Thani?
Yes, some companies also serve Koh Phangan and Koh Tao with combined tickets, making it easy to plan a multi-island trip in the Gulf of Thailand.
Summary
The price of a ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui depends on your priorities: budget-friendly with Raja or Seatran, or fast and comfortable with Lomprayah. Expect between 220 THB (~$6) for a standard ferry and 550 THB (~$15) for a high-speed catamaran.
If you’re traveling with a car, budget around 600 THB (~$16) extra. Combined bus + ferry tickets remain the most convenient solution for travelers arriving at Surat Thani airport or train station.
👉 Whether you’re a tourist, expat, or investor, planning your crossing to Koh Samui is simple and accessible. With a bit of preparation, you can find the best value for money and enjoy a smooth arrival on the island.