Modified 11th June 2025
How to Get to Koh Tao from Krabi: Complete Travel Guide
Planning your journey from Krabi to Koh Tao requires understanding the various transportation options, costs, and timing to reach this world-renowned diving paradise. Whether you’re heading to Koh Tao for exceptional diving experiences or simply to enjoy its pristine beaches, choosing the right travel method can significantly impact your overall experience.
This comprehensive guide covers all transportation methods from Krabi to Koh Tao, helping you make informed decisions based on your budget, schedule, and comfort preferences. For those seeking alternative routes, you might also consider exploring other travel options throughout Thailand.
Transportation Options Comparison
- Duration: 8-12 hours
- Cost: Approx ฿1,500
- Comfort: High
- Convenience: Door-to-door service
- Best for: Most travelers
- Duration: 10-16 hours
- Cost: From ฿1,100
- Comfort: Medium
- Convenience: Budget-friendly
- Best for: Budget travelers
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Cost: ฿3,000-6,000
- Comfort: Highest
- Convenience: Fastest option
- Best for: Time-conscious travelers
- Duration: 7-10 hours
- Cost: ฿4,000-8,000
- Comfort: Very High
- Convenience: Private, flexible
- Best for: Groups, luxury travelers
Step-by-Step Journey Breakdown
Van + Ferry Route (Most Popular)
Vans typically offer door-to-door service, picking you up directly from your accommodation in Krabi town or beaches.
4-6 hour drive to either Chumphon or Surat Thani ferry terminals via air-conditioned van with rest stops.
Transfer to high-speed ferry with ticket assistance. Ferries typically offer comfortable seating and onboard amenities.
2-4 hour scenic ferry ride through the Gulf of Thailand with opportunities to spot marine life and enjoy ocean views.
Arrive at Koh Tao’s main port with easy access to taxis, motorbike rentals, and local transportation to your accommodation.
Ferry Companies and Schedules
| Ferry Company | Route | Duration | Departures | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Chumphon – Koh Tao | 1.5 hours | 7:00, 13:00 | ฿800-1100 |
| Night boat | Surat Thani – Koh Tao | 8 hours | 20:00, 21:00 | ฿700-800 |
| Night boat | Chumphon – Koh Tao | 8 hours | 20:00, 21:00 | ฿700-800 |
| Lomprayah | Surat Thani – Koh Tao | 2.5 hours | from 10:00 | ฿900-1100 |
Ferry schedules can change during monsoon season (November-January). Always book tickets in advance during peak seasons and verify departure times 24 hours before travel. Sea conditions may cause delays or cancellations during rough weather periods.
Money-Saving Travel Tips
Purchase van+ferry combination tickets for better rates than booking separately. Many operators offer package deals with guaranteed connections.
Visit during shoulder months (April-May, September-October) for potentially lower transport costs and fewer crowds, while still enjoying good weather.
Some transport operators charge extra for oversized luggage. Pack efficiently to avoid additional fees and make transfers easier.
Morning departures often offer more reliable connections and arrive in Koh Tao with time to settle in before evening.
Ensure you have offline maps and transport company contact information for smooth transfers between different legs of your journey.
Pack light snacks and water for the journey, especially if you have dietary restrictions, as options may be limited during transfers.
What to Do Upon Arrival in Koh Tao
Once you arrive at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao offers incredible opportunities for underwater adventures, scenic exploration, and cultural experiences. The island is famous for its diverse diving sites suitable for all skill levels, from shallow coral gardens to challenging deep-water locations.
For those interested in exploring beyond diving, consider visiting some of the island’s spectacular viewpoints or enjoying the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The island also offers excellent dining experiences ranging from local Thai cuisine to international favorites.
To explore the island independently, many visitors choose motorbike rentals for convenient transportation to beaches, restaurants, and daytime activities around the island.
Understanding Koh Tao’s rich history can also enhance your appreciation of this unique destination and its transformation into a world-class diving hub.
Ready to begin your diving journey after arriving in Koh Tao? La Bombona Diving offers comprehensive diving courses and experiences for travelers of all skill levels, making us the perfect choice for your underwater adventures.
- Professional instruction in multiple languages
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Modern, well-maintained diving equipment
- Flexible scheduling to fit your travel plans
- PADI, SSI, and RAID certifications available
- Experienced guides familiar with all Koh Tao dive sites
Perfect for new arrivals: Try our Try Dive experience to ease into the underwater world, or jump straight into Open Water certification to unlock Koh Tao’s incredible dive sites.
Book Your Try Dive Experience – ฿2,500Try Dive: 1 or 2 dives | Full day experience | All equipment included
Frequently Asked Questions
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