Ferry to Koh Phangan
Getting a ferry to Koh Phangan is the last part of your journey and one you can’t avoid. It’s the only way to reach the island from any direction. Booking a ferry to Koh Phangan is easy. There are a number of different companies that you can choose from depending on your budget. Where you are coming from and when you’d like to travel on a ferry to Koh Phangan.
The nearest main ports offering a ferry to Koh Phangan are Surat Thani (Bandon Pier), Donsak (various piers). Also Koh Samui (various piers) and Koh Tao. You can purchase tickets for a ferry to Koh Phangan from many different travel shops anywhere in Thailand. As well as online here and also direct at the ferry piers. Travel agencies allow you to book your ferry to Koh Phangan well in advance.
Overnight Ferry to Koh Phangan: You can also take a ferry to Koh Phangan overnight from Surat Thani. Due to the fact that the crossing takes around five hours, it is an excellent option for those who arrive in Surat Thani late at night and do not wish to remain in the actual town. Not only is this a great way to meet new people, but it also allows you to sleep while you are traveling, making it a popular option among backpackers.
On the floor of the section dedicated to sleeping on the upper deck, there are beds that are similar to mattresses. These are quite restricted, therefore it is best to get a head start. You are going to have to sleep on the wooden deck since it is quite likely that all of the beds will be occupied.
On a daily basis, the ferry departs from Thongsala at ten o’clock at night for returns.
If you are not already on Koh Samui or Koh Tao and wish to travel by ferry during the day time, then you must first arrive at Donsak. Which is about a 1 hour drive from Surat Thani town and 1.5 hours drive from Surat Thani airport. Due to changes with some ferry service companies there are currently only two options for a ferry to Koh Phangan from Donsak, Raja Ferry Company and Lomprayah.
The Raja ferries are low cost but quite slow as they also carry vehicles over to Koh Phangan. They have plenty of space to sit or walk around, toilets and a small shop for light refreshments. Generally, the Raja ferry to Koh Phangan takes around 3 to 3.5 hours.
The Lomprayah ferries are smaller and faster catamaran type of vessel, so the sailing times are much less. These boats also have plenty of seating, toilets, refreshments and TV.
When you go to Koh Phangan, the pier in Donsak from which you depart will be determined by the ferry company that you select to travel with. When you purchase your boat ticket to Koh Phangan in advance with an agency located anywhere in Thailand, they will be able to advise you on the transportation alternatives that are most suitable for your needs.
The dock at Thongsala, which is the most important town on the island, is where all of the ferries that travel from Donsak to Koh Phangan arrive. We strongly suggest that you verify with a travel agent, the Raja Ferry Company, Seatran, Songserm Express, or Lomprayah in order to obtain the most recent information.
Book Your Ferry Tickets Here
Mainland Ferry to Koh Phangan
- Donsak Pier (Surat Thani) to Thong Sala Pier (Koh Phangan):
- Operator: Raja Ferry, Seatran Ferry
- Frequency: Multiple departures daily
- Duration: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
- Ticket Options: Standard, VIP, and sometimes premium class
- Don Sak Pier (Surat Thani) to Haad Rin Pier (Koh Phangan):
- Operator: Songserm Express, Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran
- Frequency: Several departures daily
- Duration: Around 2 to 2.5 hours
- Ticket Options: Economy and high-speed options available
Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
- Maenam Pier (Koh Samui) to Thong Sala Pier (Koh Phangan):
- Operator: Seatran Discovery, Seatran Ferry, Songserm Express
- Frequency: Multiple departures daily
- Duration: Approximately 30 to 45 minutes
- Ticket Options: Economy and high-speed options available
- Bangrak Pier (Koh Samui) to Thong Sala Pier (Koh Phangan):
- Operator: Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran
- Frequency: Several departures daily
- Duration: Around 20 to 30 minutes
- Ticket Options: Economy and high-speed options available
Island-Hopping Excursions
- Koh Tao to Koh Phangan:
- Operator: Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran, Seatran Discovery
- Frequency: Multiple departures daily
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
- Ticket Options: Economy and high-speed options available
- Angthong Marine Park to Koh Phangan:
- Operator: Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran
- Frequency: Limited departures
- Duration: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours
- Ticket Options: Economy and high-speed options available
Booking and Tips
- Booking in Advance: During peak seasons, it’s advisable to book ferry tickets in advance, either online or through your accommodation on the island.
- Ticket Counter: Tickets can also be purchased at the ferry terminals, providing flexibility for spontaneous travel plans.
- Weather Considerations: Ferry schedules may be influenced by weather conditions, especially during monsoon seasons. It’s recommended to check for updates and potential schedule changes.
- Seating Options: Ferry operators typically offer various seating classes, including standard, economy, VIP, and premium classes. Consider your preferences for comfort and views.
- Sea Sickness: If you’re prone to sea sickness, consider taking precautions before boarding. Some ferry operators provide seasickness pills onboard.
Island Arrival
- Thong Sala Pier: This is the main pier in Koh Phangan, serving as the gateway for most ferry arrivals. It is well-connected to various parts of the island.
- Haad Rin Pier: Situated in the south, Haad Rin Pier is convenient if you’re heading to the Haad Rin area, famous for its Full Moon Parties.
Embark on your maritime adventure to Koh Phangan, where the turquoise waters are your pathway to tropical bliss. Whether you’re arriving from the mainland or hopping between islands, the ferry services offer not just transportation but a scenic prelude to the wonders awaiting you on this enchanting island.