Important Information

• The fastest route from Chumphon to Koh Tao is by ferry, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• The price of a ferry ticket can range from $17.89 to $22.37, depending on the operator and the level of service.
• Combined bus and ferry tickets provide a convenient travel option from the town or airport of Chumphon.
• With three ferry departures every day, at 7am, 1pm and 9pm you have flexibility in your travel plans.
• When you arrive in Koh Tao, there are many different ways to get around the island.

Your Adventure to Koh Tao Begins

Picture yourself stepping off a ferry and onto the clean, white sand of Koh Tao, a paradise island in Thailand that is famous for its beautiful beaches and diverse marine life. The trip from Chumphon to Koh Tao is not just about getting to a destination, it’s an experience filled with excitement and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting for the first time, the journey promises to be a memorable part of your trip.

Chumphon is a city located on the coast of southern Thailand and is the gateway to the stunning islands of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s the closest point on the mainland to Koh Tao, making it the perfect place to start your island hopping adventure. Chumphon’s location makes it a great hub for transportation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip to Koh Tao.

Chumphon’s Location in Relation to Koh Tao

Chumphon’s location in relation to Koh Tao is one of its biggest draws. It’s only 85 kilometers away, making the island just a short ferry ride away. This means that the journey is quick, leaving you more time to explore and less time traveling. The ferry from Chumphon takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it the quickest and most efficient way to get to Koh Tao.

Chumphon is a great place to start your journey. It is easy to get to by train, bus, or plane from other parts of Thailand. This makes your trip to Koh Tao as easy and enjoyable as possible. If you’re considering an extended stay, check out this guide on how long to stay on Koh Tao to make the most of your visit.

Why Start Your Journey in Chumphon

Starting your journey to Koh Tao in Chumphon is a smart choice for many reasons. The most important reason is that it’s the quickest and most direct route to the island, which means less travel time and lower costs. Chumphon also has many transportation options, like buses, vans, and taxis, that can get you to the ferry terminal without any hassle.

One of the perks of beginning your trip in Chumphon is the chance to discover this enchanting city. It’s famous for its stunning beaches and delectable seafood, providing a glimpse into genuine Thai culture. Take a day or two to wander through the local markets, savor fresh seafood, or unwind on the beach before setting off for Koh Tao.

Taking a Ferry from Chumphon to Koh Tao

“Lomprayah High Speed Ferry Ferry …” from www.easybook.com and used with no modifications.

Most travelers prefer to take a ferry from Chumphon to Koh Tao, as it’s both easy and scenic. There are several companies that run daily ferries between the two locations, so you can pick the one that fits best with your itinerary. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful boat ride across the Gulf of Thailand.

Top Ferry Companies

There are a number of well-known ferry companies that operate between Chumphon and Koh Tao. The most commonly used is Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran. This company is known for their dependability, comfort, and speed, making the trip enjoyable for everyone.

The Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran is highly sought after for its quick and effective service, cutting travel time to just 1 hour and 45 minutes. Lomprayah provides a luxury travel experience with air-conditioned cabins and cozy seats.

Timetable and Duration of Ferries

There are several daily ferries from Chumphon to Koh Tao, providing a lot of flexibility for travelers. The first ferry typically leaves in the early morning, with additional services throughout the day. For more details on Chumphon to Koh Tao ferry options, you can check the available schedules and prices. This regular timetable allows you to select a departure time that suits your schedule.

The ferry ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it the fastest way to get to Koh Tao. This short travel time gives you more time to enjoy what the island has to offer, from snorkeling and diving to checking out its beautiful beaches.

Advice for a Pleasant Ferry Trip

Part of the fun in getting to Koh Tao is the ferry ride. To make sure it’s a pleasant experience, keep these points in mind. Make sure to get to the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before the ferry leaves to avoid any last-minute stress. This will give you plenty of time to check in and find a good spot to sit. If you have some extra time, consider checking out the Koh Tao Jungle Party for an exciting night out on the island.

Next, only pack the essentials in your carry-on bag. This should include sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun while on the deck of the ferry. Remember to bring a light jacket or sweater because it can get cold on the water, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. If you’re interested in exploring the waters further, consider checking out the Open Water 20 course on Koh Tao.

Finally, remember to drink plenty of water and bring some snacks. Even though ferries usually have small cafes or snack bars, it’s always a good idea to bring your own food, especially if you have special dietary needs. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as you sail across the beautiful waters to Koh Tao.

Getting to Koh Tao by Bus and Ferry

For those coming from Chumphon town or the airport, a combined bus and ferry ticket could be a great choice. This service is convenient as it lets you buy a single ticket that includes both your bus trip to the ferry terminal and the ferry trip to Koh Tao. It’s a smooth way to travel that cuts down on the need for multiple bookings and makes your trip easier. For more details, check out this guide on Chumphon to Koh Tao travel options.

The Convenience of a Combined Ticket

With a combined ticket, you can conveniently purchase your bus and ferry rides at once. This is a great option for those who are arriving at the Chumphon airport because it includes a shuttle service from the airport to the ferry terminal. A combined ticket can save you both time and money, and it makes the transition from one mode of transport to another seamless.

Minivan Departure Schedules

Minivan services to the ferry terminal are conveniently timed to coincide with the ferry departures to Koh Tao. This ensures that you get to the terminal on time for your ferry. Most minivan services run from early in the morning to late in the afternoon, giving you plenty of options. It’s a good idea to look up the schedule ahead of time and plan your arrival in Chumphon around it.

Typically, the minivan ride from Chumphon town or airport to the ferry terminal takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the roads are. You can sit back and relax during this short trip, secure in the knowledge that all your travel arrangements are in place.

If you’re arriving in Chumphon early in the morning or late at night, it might be worth it to spend the night there. That way, you can catch the earliest bus and ferry to Koh Tao the next day and make the most of your time on the island.

How Long is the Trip and Are There Any Stops?

Depending on the specific minivan and ferry combo ticket you choose, the total travel time from Chumphon to Koh Tao can be anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. This time includes the minivan ride to the ferry terminal, any waiting time, and the ferry ride. It’s a fairly quick trip, which means you’ll have more time to spend exploring all that Koh Tao has to offer.

Switching from the minivan to the ferry is typically easy, and there are staff members available to help if necessary. Be sure to keep your ticket close by, as you’ll need it for both parts of your trip.

Opting for a combined ticket guarantees you a smooth journey from beginning to end, enabling you to reach Koh Tao rejuvenated and prepared for adventure.

Arriving in Koh Tao

The excitement builds as your ferry gets closer to Koh Tao. The island’s beautiful coastline becomes visible, hinting at the adventures and relaxation that await. Once you arrive, you’re in a tropical paradise that’s just waiting for you to discover it.

Where You’ll Arrive

• Mae Haad Pier: This is where most ferries dock, and it’s located in the center of the island.
• Immediate access to transportation and local services.
• Close to popular beaches and places to stay.

Most ferries from Chumphon dock at Mae Haad Pier. This busy area is the hub of Koh Tao, with immediate access to transportation, shopping, and dining. As soon as you step off the ferry, you’ll find a range of services to help you get settled and start your island adventure.

Once you arrive at Mae Haad Pier, you’ll find it simple to get to other parts of the island, whether you’re going to a beachfront resort or a hidden bungalow in the hills. The locals are friendly and there are signs everywhere, so you’ll have no trouble finding your way.

Pause for a while and enjoy the lively vibe of Mae Haad Pier, with tourists coming and going, and vendors offering treats and keepsakes.

Getting Around Koh Tao

When you’ve reached Koh Tao, there are numerous ways to get around and see the sights. Taxis and songthaews (shared pickup trucks) can be found at Mae Haad Pier and can take you anywhere on the island. If you want more freedom to explore at your own pace, consider renting a scooter or bicycle.

There’s no shortage of scooter rentals on Koh Tao, and they’re a cost-effective way to see the island at your leisure. The island isn’t large, so it’s easy to get around, and there are many beautiful places to stop and take in the sights. However, you should always wear a helmet and be careful when driving, as some of the roads can be steep and have a lot of twists and turns.

If you’re not in a rush, walking is a fantastic way to see Koh Tao’s quaint villages and breathtaking beaches. Many of the sights are close to each other, so you can enjoy the island’s natural splendor as you stroll. For more information on how to reach the island, check out this complete guide to getting to Koh Tao.

These transportation options give you the freedom to explore everything Koh Tao has to offer.

What to do on your first day

After you’ve checked into your accommodation on Koh Tao, it’s time to start exploring the island. Why not kick off your day with a trip to Sairee Beach? This is the island’s most popular beach, and with its long, white sandy beach and crystal clear waters, it’s easy to see why. Whether you want to relax and sunbathe, swim in the sea or try your hand at water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied here.

For those who are feeling a bit adventurous, you can visit the local dive shops and sign up for a snorkeling or diving tour. Koh Tao is well-known for its colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, providing some of the best diving experiences in Thailand. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned diver, there are plenty of options that will fit your skill level.

Experience the local way of life by visiting the island’s quaint towns and markets. Try the scrumptious Thai street food, buy some mementos, or just soak in the laid-back vibe. When the sun goes down, make your way to one of the beachside bars or restaurants on the island for a tranquil evening with breathtaking views.

Commonly Asked Questions

If you’re planning a trip to Koh Tao, you probably have a few questions.

What is the quickest way to get from Chumphon to Koh Tao?

If you want to get from Chumphon to Koh Tao in the quickest way possible, you should take the Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran. This ferry service will get you to Koh Tao in about 1 hour and 45 minutes, which is faster than any other option. Plus, the Lomprayah is known for its comfortable seats and great service, so you’ll have a pleasant trip to Koh Tao.

When should I purchase my ferry tickets?

You should consider buying your ferry tickets a few days before your trip, particularly during the high season. This way, you can make sure you have a place on the ferry you want and you can organise your trip without any worries. Most ferry companies allow you to book online, which is very handy and reassuring.

Can I take an overnight ferry?

There are overnight ferries from Chumphon to Koh Tao. The trip leaves at around 9pm and is approximately 8 hours long. Don’t worry – you have a bed for the night with charging facilities. If you get to Chumphon late, and don’t want to take a night boat, it might be a good idea to spend the night there and take an early morning ferry so you can make the most of your day on the island.

What facilities are available on the ferry?

The ferry from Chumphon to Koh Tao has a range of facilities to make your trip more comfortable. Most ferries have air-conditioned cabins, comfortable seats and toilets. Some ferry companies also have snack bars or cafes on board where you can buy food and drink during the journey.

Am I allowed to bring my car to Koh Tao?

Yes you can. There is space on the boat to bring cars over from the mainland. Just make sure you book it in advance to ensure there is space available. Taxis, scooters, and bicycles are all also readily available for hire when you get to Koh Tao, offering convenient ways to explore and see everything Koh Tao has to offer.