Ferries in Thailand
Traveling by Ferry in Thailand
Thailand offers an extensive ferry network that connects its beautiful islands and coastal destinations. Whether youβre heading to Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, or venturing further to Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, or Phuket, ferries provide a scenic and efficient way to travel.
This guide covers Thailandβs most popular ferry routes, along with a ferry map for easy planning. Many of these routes have been personally explored in early 2025, providing first-hand insights into what to expect.
Map: Thailand ferry routes: crossings to the Thai Islands.
- Click on the ferry ports to see all crossings
In the following map, you can find several ferries on the southwestern coast of Thailand. Connecting Koh Samui to Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand and, on the other side, Koh Lanta, Phuket and Kho Phi Phi in the Andaman Sea. Bangkok lies to the north.
About the crossings in Thailand
As mentioned earlier we went on vacation in Thailand in early 2025 with our family. You can find out more about our ferry experiences in this blog about ferrying through Thailand.
Popular Ferry Routes in Thailand
Gulf of Thailand (Eastern Side)
- Koh Samui β Koh Phangan (30 min β 1 hour)
- Koh Samui β Koh Tao (1.5 β 2 hours)
- Koh Phangan β Koh Tao (1 β 1.5 hours)
- Mainland (Surat Thani / Donsak Pier) β Koh Samui (1.5 β 2 hours)
Andaman Sea (Western Side)
- Phuket β Koh Phi Phi (1 β 2 hours)
- Koh Phi Phi β Krabi (Ao Nang or Railay Beach) (1 β 1.5 hours)
- Koh Phi Phi β Koh Lanta (1.5 β 2 hours)
- Phuket β Koh Lanta (2.5 β 3 hours, some routes via Koh Phi Phi)
Ferry Operators & Ticket Booking
Thailand has several ferry operators, including:
- Lomprayah High-Speed Catamarans (faster, more expensive)
- Seatran Discovery (comfortable, mid-range pricing)
- Raja Ferry (budget option, larger ferries for vehicles)
- Andaman Wave Master (routes in the Andaman Sea)
How to Book
- Tickets can be booked online or at ferry terminals.
- Prices vary based on season, speed, and operator.
- Some ferries allow vehicle transport, especially on mainland to Koh Samui routes.
Travel Tips & Considerations
- Book early in peak season (Nov β April), as ferries fill up quickly.
- Sea conditions can affect schedules, especially during monsoon season (May β Oct).
- High-speed ferries are faster but can be rough in bad weatherβtake motion sickness precautions if needed.
- Island hopping is easy, but plan connections carefully, as ferry schedules vary.
On board, vessels & route maps
Whether you're planning a quick island hop or a longer journey, booking in advance is crucial, especially in peak season.
Booking Your Ferry: Why Itβs Important
Unlike in some other countries, ferries in Thailand sell out quicklyβespecially during the peak season (November to April). Many operators stop selling tickets approximately 24 hours before departure, meaning last-minute bookings are often not possible.
Key Booking Tips
- Book in advance – at least a few days ahead in high season, especially for popular routes like Koh Samui-Koh Tao or Phuket-Koh Phi Phi.
- Check ferry schedules early, as some routes have limited departures per day.
- Online booking is recommended – this ensures you have a confirmed ticket before arriving at the port.
- Donβt rely on same-day purchases – walk-in tickets may not be available, and some ticket counters close sales a day before departure.
Ferry Operators & Ticket Prices
Fares vary by route and operator, with faster, premium services costing more than standard ferries. Major operators include:
- Lomprayah (high-speed catamarans, premium option)
- Seatran Discovery (mid-range, comfortable seating)
- Raja Ferry (slower but allows vehicles on Samui routes)
- Andaman Wave Master (serving the Andaman region)
π° Example fares (one-way per person):
- Koh Samui to Koh Phangan: ~$10-$15 USD
- Koh Samui to Koh Tao: ~$20-$30 USD
- Phuket to Koh Phi Phi: ~$15-$25 USD
- Koh Phi Phi to Krabi: ~$12-$20 USD
Travel Considerations
- Ferries can be affected by weather, particularly in monsoon season (MayβOctober)βcheck for cancellations.
- Some high-speed ferries can be rough in bad weatherβconsider motion sickness precautions.
- Most ferries are passenger-only, but car ferries operate between the mainland and Koh Samui.
By booking ahead, travelers can avoid the stress of sold-out ferries and enjoy a smooth journey between Thailandβs stunning islands.
Ferry Travel in Thailand
Thailand has a well-established ferry network, connecting major islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta. These ferries offer a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly mode of transport for island hopping.
Our platform provides expertise, informationΒ and route details. Travel options range from high-speed catamarans to standard ferries with seating.Β Timetables and availability vary based on season and weather conditions, so booking in advance is recommended.
In addition to Thailand, we cover ferry routes in the Singapore region, offering a broader guide for travelers exploring Asia by sea.
Hi. Can I take my scooter on the ferries when visiting the different islands? And does that cost extra?
Im planning a backpacking trip next summer for 3 months to Thiland and I really want to visit Kho Phi Phi and it's good to know there is a Ferry. Anyone know of any other hidden gem islands/places?
Hi Remi,
There are countless examples of nice island in Thailand! Here are a few: Koh Yao islands Β· Koh Samui Β· Koh Tao Β· Koh Pha Ngan Β· Koh Lanta Β· Koh Lipe Β· Koh Chang! All are small little paradise destinations, in your trip however i would only visit like 2 or 3 as they are a bit the same.
~ Jochem
Hi, is there any way of getting from mainland Europe (Spain) to Thailand by ferry?
Thanks π
Unfortunately, this is not possible and the options over land or by air are better.
It's hilarious that anyone is still calling phi phi a hidden gem