Koh Phangan Ferry Schedule

Koh Phangan is one of the most popular islands in Thailand, attracting tourists with its beaches, Full Moon Parties and relaxed atmosphere. The island can only be reached by water, as there is no airport. The main ferry routes connect Phangan with the mainland (via Surat Thani), as well as with the nearby islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao.

There are several ferry operators operating on these routes, providing regular services throughout the day:

●       Raja Ferry is a major carrier with spacious ferries suitable for transport and passengers;

●       Seatran Discovery – comfortable high-speed ferries for tourists;

●       Lomprayah – catamarans providing fast communication between the islands;

●       Songserm – a budget option for travelers;

●       Echo Travel is a carrier focused on transfers between Koh Samui, Phangan and Koh Tao.

Each route has its own characteristics, different travel times and flight frequencies, which we will discuss in detail below.

Ferries between Koh Phangan and Surat Thani (Donsak)

Koh Phangan is connected to the mainland via Donsak Pier in Surat Thani Province. This route is the main way to get to the island from Bangkok, Phuket and other parts of Thailand. Most travelers fly into Surat Thani Airport and then head to Donsak Pier, where ferries leave for Koh Phangan.

The average travel time between Koh Phangan and Surat Thani is between 2 and 3.5 hours, depending on the carrier and type of vessel.

●       Raja Ferry is the slowest but most capacious ferry, also carrying cars and bikes.

●       Lomprayah is a high-speed catamaran, travel time is about 2 hours.

●       Seatran Discovery is a more comfortable option with indoor and outdoor areas on board.

Surat Thani - Koh Phangan Ferry Schedule

Ferries between Phangan and Koh Samui

The route between Phangan and Koh Samui is one of the busiest, as Koh Samui is the closest island with an international airport. The crossing takes between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on the type of boat.

Ferries depart throughout the day from several piers:

●       Thongsala Pier (Phangan) → Nathon Pier, Bangrak, Maenam (Samui)

●       Ban Tai Pier (Phangan) → Big Buddha Pier (Samui)

There are several companies operating on this route:

●       Lomprayah – fast catamarans, travel time 20-30 minutes.

●       Seatran Discovery – comfortable ferries, sailing time 30-40 minutes.

●       Echo Travel is a budget option for a short crossing.

Ferry schedule Phangan - Samui

Ferries between Phangan and Koh Tao

The route between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao is one of the most popular among tourists, especially diving enthusiasts. Koh Tao is famous for its clear waters and many diving centers, and the journey between the islands takes from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type of vessel.

Ferries between Phangan and Koh Tao operate several times a day, but the schedule may change depending on weather conditions. Lomprayah catamarans are the fastest, taking about 1 hour. Regular ferries, such as Songserm, are slower, taking about 1.5–2 hours.

During severe storms (especially during the rainy season), ferries may cancel their services, so it is best to check the current schedule before your trip.

Ferry schedule Phangan - Koh Tao

Ferries from Surat Thani (Donsak) to Koh Phangan

This route is important for those arriving on Koh Phangan from the mainland. Surat Thani is the main hub for buses and flights from Bangkok, Phuket and other areas.

Travel time and flight features

●       Travel time is 2–3.5 hours depending on the carrier.

●       Raja Ferry is suitable for those who travel with transport, but it takes longer.

●       Lomprayah and Seatran Discovery are faster and more convenient for tourists.

Surat Thani - Koh Phangan Ferry Schedule

Ferries from Koh Tao to Phangan

This route is popular with tourists traveling between the islands.

Travel time and flight features

●       Average travel time is 1–2 hours .

●       Lomprayah is the fastest option (~1 hour).

●       Songserm – economical, but longer (~1.5 hours).

Ferry schedule Koh Tao - Phangan

Ferries from Koh Samui to Phangan

This route is the most frequently served as Koh Samui is the closest island with an airport.

Frequency of flights and main departure piers

●       Main piers: Nathon, Bangrak, Maenam (Samui) – Thongsala, Ban Tai (Phangan) .

●       The most frequent carriers are Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, Echo Travel .

●       Travel time is 20–45 minutes .

Samui - Phangan Ferry Schedule

Features of night ferries

Overnight ferries are a convenient option for those who want to save on accommodation and not waste daytime on travel. Unlike daytime voyages, overnight ships are equipped with sleeping berths, but conditions on board may vary.

The Night Boat ferry departs from Surat Thani City Pier. It is quiet and slow, and has reclining seats on board, making the journey more comfortable.

Conditions on board and duration of the trip

●       Travel time is about 6–8 hours, depending on the route.

●       There are basic sleeping facilities on board, but don't expect a high level of comfort.

●       It is important to bring warm clothes with you as the cabin can get chilly at night due to the air conditioning.

Flight restrictions

●       In stormy weather, night ferries may be cancelled.

●       During the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, demand for tickets increases, so it is better to book them in advance.

Ticket prices and travel tips

The cost of ferry tickets depends on the route, carrier and type of vessel. On average, the price of a ticket is:

●       Koh Phangan - Surat Thani: from 350 to 600 baht;

●       Phangan – Samui: from 200 to 400 baht;

●       Phangan - Koh Tao: from 500 to 900 baht.

Where to buy tickets

●       Online is the most convenient option, as you can choose a flight in advance and avoid queues. Popular services: 12Go.Asia, carrier websites (Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery).

●       At the pier – you can buy tickets right before departure, but on popular routes tickets can sell out quickly.

●       Through travel agencies – convenient if you want to book a ticket along with a transfer.

Tips for choosing a carrier and travel time

●       For short trips it is better to choose Lomprayah or Seatran Discovery - they are faster and more comfortable.

●       If you have a lot of luggage or a bike - Raja Ferry, as they carry transport.

●       During high season and before the Full Moon Party, it is better to book tickets in advance to avoid being left without a seat.

●       The rainy season (September-November) may cause changes to the schedule, so it is best to check flights the day before departure.

Conclusion

Ferry service on Phangan is well developed, allowing tourists and locals to easily travel between the islands and the mainland. For a comfortable and fast trip, it is better to choose Lomprayah catamarans. If you are looking for savings, choose Songserm or Echo Travel. During the Full Moon Party, demand for tickets increases, so it is worth booking in advance.

Knowing the schedule and route features will make it easy to plan your trip and avoid unpleasant surprises.