Ferry Routes in Thailand: Timetables, Prices and Booking (2026)

For most routes, you can buy tickets at the pier on the day. However, during Thai public holidays (Songkran in April, New Year in December-January) and on the most popular routes like Phuket to Koh Phi Phi, advance booking is strongly recommended. During low season you rarely need to book ahead. Online booking via 12Go guarantees your seat and avoids the pier queue.

The cheapest option is the overnight bus plus car ferry combination, which costs from around $13 to $21. You take a bus from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal or Khao San Road, travel overnight to Surat Thani, then cross to Koh Samui by car ferry from Donsak Pier. The journey takes 12-14 hours total. Flying is faster (1.5 hours, from $34 including luggage) but more expensive, especially with luggage fees.

The high-speed ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Koh Phi Phi takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the operator and sea conditions. The slow car ferry takes around 3.5 hours but costs less (from $6 vs $10). Most visitors prefer the speed ferry. Ferries depart from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town, not from Patong Beach, budget 30-45 minutes travel time from central Phuket hotels.

Yes. Lomprayah and Seatran operate daily ferries between Koh Samui and Koh Tao. The journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours and costs from $17. Ferries depart from Big Buddha Pier (Lomprayah) and Nathon Pier (Seatran) on Koh Samui, typically at 8am and 12:30pm. Many ferries stop briefly at Koh Pha Ngan on the way.

Most Andaman Sea ferry services reduce significantly or stop entirely between May and October due to the southwest monsoon. Routes to Koh Lanta typically close from May 1. Routes to Koh Phi Phi may continue but with reduced frequency and frequent cancellations due to rough seas. The Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan) has its own rainy season from October to December, but ferries generally continue year-round with minor disruptions.

The Midnight Express slow boat from Chumphon to Koh Tao is the main night ferry in Thailand. It is generally considered safe and has been operating for decades. The boat has basic sleeping areas but is not luxurious. Some travelers find the deck seating uncomfortable for the 5-6 hour crossing. If conditions are rough, the journey can be unpleasant. For most travelers, the daytime speed ferry is a better choice unless you are on a tight budget and want to save a night's accommodation.

Most Thailand ferries allow one large bag (up to 20 kg) plus a small backpack per person at no extra charge. Oversized luggage such as bikes or surfboards may incur extra fees, and very large items may need to be declared in advance. Car ferries like Raja Ferry on the Donsak-Koh Samui route allow full vehicles. Always arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure to check in luggage.

There is no direct ferry between Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi as they are on opposite coasts of Thailand. The fastest route is: ferry from Koh Samui to Donsak Pier, then bus to Phuket (5-6 hours), then ferry to Koh Phi Phi (1.5-2 hours). Total travel time is around 9-11 hours. Alternatively, fly from Koh Samui Airport to Phuket (1 hour flight, from $23), then take the ferry. The flight option saves around 5-6 hours of overland travel.

Yes, most car ferries in Thailand accept motorbikes. Raja Ferry and Seatran Discovery on the Donsak to Koh Samui route both carry motorcycles, usually for around $4 to $6 extra. On the Andaman side, motorbikes can be transported to Koh Phi Phi on the car ferry (slow boat), though the island is largely vehicle-free once you arrive. Always confirm with the operator before arriving at the pier with a motorbike.