27 de noviembre de 2019
Table of Contents
Resumen The easiest way to get from Phuket to Koh Tao is by combined bus and ferry via Surat Thani, starting from 1,100 THB and taking 9 to 10 hours. Faster options include a van and high-speed catamaran pickup from your hotel, or flying to Koh Samui and continuing by ferry. Budget travellers can save on accommodation with the overnight sleeper boat. This guide covers all four routes with 2026 prices, departure times, operators, and booking tips, everything you need to plan your journey from Phuket to Koh Tao. |
The easiest way to get from Phuket to Koh Tao is with a combined bus-and-ferry, which is the most practical and budget-friendly option. The fastest route is to fly to Koh Samui or Surat Thani and then continue by ferry to Koh Tao.
This journey involves crossing the southern peninsula of Thailand, as Phuket is located on the Andaman Sea, while Koh Tao lies in the Gulf of Thailand. As a result, all routes require a land transfer followed by a ferry connection.
Koh Tao has no airport, so sea transport is a mandatory final step regardless of the route chosen. Travel options vary, allowing travellers to select a route based on specific travel priorities.
This guide covers the main routes, travel times, costs, and key details to help you choose the most suitable option for your journey to Koh Tao.
All Routes Compared From Phuket To Koh Tao
Route | Total Duration | Cost | Best For | Comfort |
Bus + Ferry (via Surat Thani) | 9 to 12 hours | 1,100 to 1,600 THB | Budget travellers | 3/5 |
Van + High-Speed Catamaran | 8 to 10 hours | 1,375 to 1,600 THB | Speed and convenience | 4/5 |
Overnight Sleeper Boat | approx. 12 hours | 1,000 to 1,200 THB | Saving on accommodation | 3/5 |
Fly to Koh Samui + Ferry | 4 to 6 hours | 3,500 to 7,000+ THB | Time-poor travellers | 5/5 |
All prices are approximate one-way fares. Prices vary by season and operator. Book in advance during peak season (December to March).
Route 1: Bus + High-Speed Ferry Via Surat Thani
9 To 10 Hours | From 1,100 Thb | Recommended For Most Travellers
This is the most popular way to travel from Phuket to Koh Tao. Combined bus and ferry tickets are available through Lomprayah and Seatran Discovery, and handle all your connections in one booking.
How The Journey Works:
- Depart from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 or a designated hotel/hostel pickup point
- Bus travels east across the peninsula to Donsak Pier in Surat Thani (around 4 to 5 hours, air-conditioned)
- Board a high-speed catamaran at Donsak Pier, heading into the Gulf of Thailand
- Ferry stops at Koh Samui and Koh Phangan before arriving at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao (2 to 3 hours)
Key Details At A Glance:
Detail | Information |
Departure point | Phuket Bus Terminal 2 or Lomprayah Phuket pickup |
Main operators | Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, Phantip Travel |
Departure time | Approx. 9:00 AM from Phuket |
Arrival time | Approx. 17:45 to 18:30 on Koh Tao |
Ferry arrival pier | Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao |
Book via | Lomprayah official website, any travel agency |
What To Expect On Board:
- The bus is air-conditioned but can be cramped on longer stretches. Bring a neck pillow
- There is usually a short rest stop with food and bathrooms en route
- The high-speed catamaran has indoor air-conditioned seating and an outdoor deck
- Luggage is stored in the hold of the bus and the ferry. Keep valuables with you
Pro tip: Book a combined ticket rather than separate tickets for the same trip. Operators like Lomprayah own both the buses and the ferries, so your connection is guaranteed and you will not be left stranded at a pier.
Route 2: Van + High-Speed Catamaran — Faster And More Flexible
8 To 10 Hours | From 1,375 Thb | Best For Comfort And Speed
For travellers who want a more comfortable and slightly faster experience, the van and high-speed catamaran combination is the better choice. Instead of a large bus from the terminal, a minivan or taxi picks you up from your hotel, hostel, or a designated pickup point around Phuket.
How The Journey Works:
- Minivan or van collects passengers from Kata, Karon, Patong, Phuket Airport, or other designated stops
- Typically departs the Kata area from around 6:30 AM; last pickup at Phuket Airport at approximately 9:30 AM
- Transfer to the pier, then board the Lomprayah high-speed catamaran
- Ferry travels via Koh Samui and Koh Phangan to Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao
- Estimated arrival on Koh Tao: 17:45
Pickup Locations (Typical):
Pickup Area | Approx. Departure Time |
Kata | 6:30 AM |
Karon | 7:00 AM |
Patong | 7:15 AM |
Phuket Town | 8:00 AM |
Phuket Airport | 9:30 AM |
Note: Pickup times vary by operator. Confirm your exact pickup time at least 24 hours in advance. |
Why Choose This Option Over The Bus?
- Hotel or hostel pickup removes the need to get yourself to the bus terminal
- Minivans are often less crowded than large coaches
- Ideal if you are arriving by flight into Phuket Airport and heading straight to Koh Tao the same day
Pro tip: If you are flying into Phuket and planning to continue to Koh Tao, check that your flight lands well before 9:30 AM. A delayed flight could mean missing your onward transfer. |
Route 3: Overnight Sleeper Boat
Approx. 12 Hours (Overnight) | From 1,000 Thb | Best For Budget And Backpackers
The overnight sleeper boat is a firm favourite with backpackers and budget travellers, and it is easy to see why. You depart Koh Tao in the evening and wake up on the other side, having saved a night of accommodation in the process.
Note: This route operates in both directions. For travellers heading from Koh Tao to Phuket, the service departs Mae Haad Pier at 9:00 PM and arrives in Phuket around midday the following day. |
How The Journey Works (Phuket To Koh Tao):
- Take a bus or taxi to Phuket Bus Terminal or the relevant pier in the evening
- Board the sleeper boat at approximately 9:00 PM
- Travel overnight across the peninsula and into the Gulf
- Arrive at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao, the following morning (around 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon)
Sleeper Boat Pros And Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Saves one night of accommodation costs | Berths are narrow and basic |
No rushing for daytime connections | Limited comfort compared to a hotel bed |
Arrive refreshed and ready to explore | Can be cancelled or delayed in rough weather |
Budget-friendly from 1,000 THB | Not available to book on all operator websites |
Insider tip: The overnight service is popular during Thai public holidays and around New Year. Book at least two to three days ahead if travelling at these times. Berths vary between fan-cooled and air-conditioned, depending on availability. Confirm before booking if this matters to you. |
Route 4: Fly Phuket To Koh Samui, Then Ferry — Fastest Route
4 To 6 Hours | From 3,500 Thb+ | Best For Time-Poor Travellers
If time is your priority and budget is not, flying from Phuket to Koh Samui and then taking a high-speed ferry to Koh Tao is the fastest option available.
How The Journey Works:
- Fly from Phuket International Airport (HKT) to Koh Samui Airport (USM) with Bangkok Airways
- Flight duration: approximately 1 hour
- Flights depart approximately twice daily (around 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM. Confirm current schedule before booking)
- Transfer to the Koh Samui ferry pier
- Board the Lomprayah high-speed catamaran to Koh Tao (1.5 to 2 hours)
- Arrive at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao
Cost Breakdown:
Leg | Approximate Cost |
Phuket to Koh Samui flight (Bangkok Airways) | 2,500 to 5,000+ THB |
Koh Samui to Koh Tao ferry (Lomprayah) | 600 to 900 THB |
Airport transfer on Koh Samui | 200 to 500 THB |
Total estimated | 3,500 to 7,000+ THB |
What To Watch Out For:
- Bangkok Airways is the only airline operating direct flights from Phuket to Koh Samui. Check for deals 30 or more days in advance
- Book the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Tao before you finalise your flight time. Missing the last ferry means an unplanned overnight on Koh Samui
- Phuket to Surat Thani or Chumphon flights are technically cheaper but require connections through Bangkok, making the overall journey significantly longer
When Is The Best Time To Plan The Journey?
Phuket and Koh Tao are on opposite coasts of Thailand, so they experience different monsoon seasons. The best time for the Phuket to Koh Tao ferry crossing is when the Gulf of Thailand is calm, generally from November through to April.
Season | Months | Conditions | Booking Advice |
Peak Season | December to March | Calm seas, full ferry schedules | Book 5 to 7 days ahead; prices are higher |
Hot Season | April to June | Good conditions, occasional afternoon swells | Book 24 to 48 hours ahead |
Gulf Monsoon | July to October | Some rough crossings; ferry delays possible | Book flexible tickets; have a backup date |
Shoulder Season | November | Transitional weather — mostly fine | Book 24 hours ahead; confirm the day before |
Note: Phuket’s own Andaman monsoon season runs from May to October. If you are caught in Phuket during the monsoon and want to cross to Koh Tao, the Gulf side is often calmer and sunnier, making the journey a sensible move. Always check current ferry schedules with operators before booking.
What Should You Know Before Planning A Trip
01. Where You Arrive On Koh Tao
All ferries arrive at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao’s main port. You will find the following available directly at the pier:
- Songthaews (shared pickup trucks used as taxis)
- Motorbike rentals
- Hotel and guesthouse transfer services
- Small restaurants and convenience shops
02. Where To Buy Your Tickets
Option | Best For |
Lomprayah official website | Reliable combined bus and ferry booking |
12Go Asia | Comparing all operators and routes side by side |
Phuket travel agencies | In-person booking, overnight ferry tickets |
Hotel reception | Convenience, though prices can be slightly higher |
03. Packing Tips For The Crossing
- Motion sickness tablets are recommended for high-speed catamarans, which can be choppy, particularly in the hot season. Take tablets before boarding, not after the swells start
- Label all luggage clearly so that bags go into separate holds on the bus and ferry
- Keep your passport, phone, wallet, and valuables in a small carry-on bag
- Bring snacks and a water bottle, as food on ferries is available but overpriced
- Wear a light layer for the air-conditioned bus and ferry cabin
Conclusión
The journey from Phuket to Koh Tao is longer than most routes in southern Thailand, but it is well worth the effort. With four clear options to choose from, bus and ferry, van and catamaran, overnight sleeper boat, or fly and ferry, there is a route to suit every budget, timeline, and travel style.
The key is to plan ahead. Book your tickets in advance during peak season, confirm pickup times with your operator the day before, and check ferry schedules directly with Lomprayah or Seatran before you travel, as timetables change seasonally.
However you make the crossing, Mae Haad Pier is where your Koh Tao adventure begins.
Start Your Koh Tao Adventure with La Bombona Diving You have made it to the island — now make the most of it. La Bombona Diving is located steps from Mae Haad Pier, so we are one of the first things you will see when you step off the ferry. Whether you have never dived before or you are ready to go deeper, our team is here to make your time on Koh Tao unforgettable.
Not sure where to start? A Try Dive is the perfect first step. Book Your Bautizo Experience Try Dive: 2,500 THB (1 dive) or 3,500 THB (2 dives) | Full day experience | Perfect for new arrivals |
Preguntas frecuentes
Q1. How long does it take to get from Phuket to Koh Tao?
The journey takes 8 to 12 hours by bus and ferry, depending on the route and operator. The van and high-speed catamaran combination is the fastest land and sea option at around 8 to 10 hours. The overnight sleeper boat takes around 12 hours but departs late and arrives in the morning, so the time passes while you sleep.
Q2. What is the cheapest way to get from Phuket to Koh Tao?
The cheapest option is the bus and ferry combination via Surat Thani, starting from around 1,100 THB. The overnight sleeper boat is also budget-friendly at 1,000 to 1,200 THB and saves you a night of accommodation, making it an excellent value overall.
Q3. Is there a direct ferry from Phuket to Koh Tao?
There is no direct daytime ferry from Phuket to Koh Tao. All routes involve a land crossing by bus or van to a pier on the Gulf side before boarding the Koh Tao ferry. The overnight sleeper boat is the closest thing to a through-journey, combining bus and boat in one continuous overnight trip.
Q4. Can I travel from Koh Tao to Phuket using the same routes?
Yes, the Koh Tao to Phuket route operates in reverse using the same operators. The Lomprayah ferry departs Mae Haad Pier at 9:30 AM and arrives in Phuket at approximately 18:30, with the bus leg crossing back over the peninsula. The overnight sleeper departs Mae Haad at 9:00 PM and arrives the following morning. Book the Koh Tao to Phuket ferry in advance during peak season as it fills up quickly.
Q5. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season (December to March) and around Thai public holidays. Outside peak season, booking 24 to 48 hours ahead is usually sufficient for daytime services. The overnight sleeper boat should be booked two to three days ahead when possible, particularly during busy periods.
Q6. Which operators run the Phuket to Koh Tao route?
The main operators are Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, and Phantip Travel for daytime bus and ferry services. For the overnight route, operators include Fame Tour and Koh Tao Booking Centre. All can be booked via 12Go Asia or the relevant operator websites.
Q7. What is the journey time on the Phuket Koh Tao ferry leg specifically?
The sea crossing from Donsak Pier (Surat Thani) to Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao, takes approximately 2 to 3 hours by high-speed catamaran. The bus leg from Phuket to the pier adds around 4 to 5 hours. The total Phuket to Koh Tao journey by ferry and bus is therefore 8 to 10 hours from departure to arrival at the pier.
Bucea con LBD: tu puerta a la exploración submarina
Tanto si eres un principiante curioso como un profesional experimentado, nuestra escuela es tu portal a las maravillas del submarinismo. Únete a nosotros en el mundo bajo las olas.
¿LISTO PARA EMPEZAR?
Consulta nuestros cursos de buceo en Koh Tao
ES 
EN
Un comentario