How to travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, Thailand

3 Jan 2020 6 min read 2 comments Thailand Transportation

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Want to know how to travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan? You can take the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan or the Samui to Phangan speedboat.

Traveling between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan is relatively easy, thanks to the well-established transportation network connecting these islands.

Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget or prefer a more luxurious experience, there are multiple ways to make this journey.

Traveling from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan can only be done via water transport. There are two piers that ferries use to access Koh Phangan coming from Koh Samui.

The first pier is the Thong Sala Pier. It is located on the southwestern side of the island. The second pier is Haad Rin. It is located on the southern side of the island.

Tip: We offer detailed information about how to get around in Thailand for all main tourist destinations, like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and Pattaya.

Distance from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan

The distance between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan is about 9 miles or 15 kilometers.

Transportation Options from Koh Samui to Koh Phagan

The following table outlines all transportation options from Koh Samui to Koh Phagan:

MethodTravel timePrice
Ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phagan1 hourUSD 7-USD 10
Speedboat from Koh Samui to Koh Phagan30 minutes
koh-samui-to-koh-phangan

Getting to Koh Phangan from Koh Samui

1. Koh Samui to Koh Phangan Ferry

Journey Duration: 1 hour

Haad Rin Queen is one of the few companies offering cheap transport services from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan by ferry. It is a popular option for backpackers and budget travelers. 

The passenger ferry between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan is far less comfortable than booking a high-speed boat. (Think wooden benches and crowded areas.)

They say you get what you pay for and that if it only takes an hour to your destination, you may try to overlook some inconveniences. Ultimately, the choice is yours. 

Haad Rin Queen leaves the Sunset Pier and arrives at the Haad Rin Pier. If you are coming to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party, this may be your best option, as the venue is right where you’re off.

Koh Samui to Koh Phagan Ferry Schedule:

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
10:30 AM11:30 AM1 hourUSD 7BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
04:30 PM05:30 PM1 hourUSD 7BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
10:30 AM11:20 AM50 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
05:00 PM05:50 PM50 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
03:30 PM04:00 PM30 minutesUSD 9BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
09:30 AM10:15 AM45 minutesUSD 10BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
02:30 PM03:15 PM45 minutesUSD 10BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313

Why Choose the Ferry Option?

Ferry transfers between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are a convenient and widely used transportation option. Here’s why:

  1. Ease of Access: Ferry terminals on both islands are easily accessible and well-organized, making it simple to embark on your journey. You’ll find ferry departure points in Koh Samui at Nathon Pier, Bang Rak Pier, and Maenam Pier. The main arrival points on Koh Phangan are Thong Sala Pier and Haad Rin Pier.
  2. Comfort and Scenic Views: Ferries are designed with passenger comfort in mind. They offer spacious seating areas, some even providing air-conditioned cabins. As you sail across the turquoise waters, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding islands, creating a memorable journey.
  3. Frequent Departures: Ferries between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan operate regularly throughout the day, giving you flexibility in choosing your preferred departure time. This means you can easily plan your itinerary and have more freedom to explore both islands.
koh-samui-to-koh-phangan

2. Speedboat to Koh Phangan from Samui

Journey Duration: 20 minutes

There’s an alternative way of getting from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, still by water.

Companies like the Lomprayah Catamaran allow travelers to travel to the island via high-speed boat from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan. Not only do they take you faster to your destination, but it also gives you the utmost convenience on board. Fares are, of course, higher than that of a passenger ferry.

Lomprayah Catamaran departs from Mae Nam, found northwest of Koh Samui. In about 30 minutes, you will reach the Thong Sala pier. Lomprayah has three trips daily. One-way fare for adults is 10 USD; children pay 5 USD only.

Seatran Discovery, on the other hand, is a high-speed boat service provider which departs Bang Rak in Koh Samui.

In 30 minutes, you will arrive at the Thong Sala pier. Seatran has two trips daily. Adults pay 10 USD, while kids pay about 7 USD.

Haad Rin Queen is another transport company that leaves Bophut in Koh Samui and arrives at the Haad Rin port in Koh Phangan. The whole duration of the trip is about 45 minutes.

Haad Rin Queen has four trips daily. They utilize the closest pier to Koh Samui airport. A one-way trip costs around 8 USD for adults and around 4 USD for kids.

If you come from the west part of Koh Samui, you can find the Songserm Express boat service there. It will take you to the Thong Sala pier.

Songserm Express has two trips daily. A one-way adult ticket costs about 6 USD, while children only pay half the price.

Generally, the Koh Samui to Koh Phangan speedboat time is around 30 to 45 minutes.

Koh Samui to Koh Phagan Speedboat Schedule:

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
12:15 PM12:45 PM30 minutesUSD 9BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
12:30 PM01:00 PM30 minutesUSD 9BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
12:00 PM12:30 PM30 minutesUSD 10BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
02:30 PM03:00 PM30 minutesUSD 10BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
03:00 PM03:30 PM30 minutesUSD 19BOOK NOW 3 e1661788865313
koh-samui-to-koh-phangan

Booking Tips

To ensure a smooth journey, here are some helpful booking tips:

  • Book in Advance: Especially during peak travel seasons, booking your transportation tickets in advance is advisable to secure your preferred departure time.
  • Check the Schedules: Ferry and speedboat schedules may vary, so check the departure and arrival times to plan your itinerary accordingly.
  • Consider Package Deals: Some travel agencies offer package deals, including transportation, accommodation, and additional perks. These deals can provide excellent value for money and save you the hassle of arranging everything separately.

Best day tours in Koh Phangan, Thailand

Koh Phangan is renowned for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and diverse activities.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, or wellness seeker, the island has many day tour options to cater to your preferences.

These tours provide an opportunity to explore the island’s hidden gems and engage in exciting activities while enjoying the beauty of your surroundings.

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

The following widget shows some of the best tours in Koh Phangan, Thailand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get from Koh Samui to Phangan?

There is currently only one way to travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phagan, via water! There is only one route operated by multiple ferry and speedboat companies.

How long does it take to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan?

Koh Phangan can be reached by ferry in between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the operator.

How much is the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan?

The fare for the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan ranges between USD 4 and USD 15.

What is the fastest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan?

The fastest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan is by Speedboat, which takes about 30 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan?

The cheapest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan is by ferry, which costs USD 7-USD 10.

Is it necessary to book ferry or speedboat tickets in advance?

It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred departure time and avoid any last-minute hassles.

Can I travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan by air?

No, there are no direct flights between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. The most common modes of transportation are ferries and speedboats.

How long does the speedboat journey take?

The speedboat journey from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the sea conditions and the type of boat.

Are there any accommodation options available on Koh Phangan?

Yes, Koh Phangan offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel periods.

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2 responses to “How to travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, Thailand”

  1. Hi!
    Finally I booked my tickets for my next year trip with duckferries.com.

  2. Hi! Is there ant big boat to do island hopping there? Thanks..

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