Koh Nang Yuan
Koh Nang Yuan by Speedboat: the Way to Paradise
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Koh Nang Yuan Information
Koh Nang Yuan: A Hidden Gem Just Minutes from Koh Tao
Koh Nang Yuan is a stunning group of three small islets connected by white sandy beaches, located just off the northwest coast of Koh Tao, Thailand. It’s a short distance from Koh Tao, making it a popular day-trip destination for travelers seeking serene beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The most common way to reach Koh Nang Yuan is by speedboat or longtail boat. Speedboats offer the quickest ride, while longtail boats provide a more traditional, scenic journey. Departures are usually from Mae Haad Pier or Sairee Beach on Koh Tao. Regular boat trips run throughout the day, and the island is only 10-15 minutes away from Koh Tao by sea.
Arrivals in Koh Nang Yuan
The first 8 of 10 services arriving in Koh Nang Yuan today — pick one to choose your date and book.
- 2h 30mDirect1.25 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is lower than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 1h 30mDirect1.25 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is lower than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 6h 15m1 stopEstimated CO₂ · per passengerLowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 6h 15m1 stopEstimated CO₂ · per passengerLowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 1h 30mDirect1.25 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is lower than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 11h 30m1 stopEstimated CO₂ · per passengerLowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 11h1 stopEstimated CO₂ · per passengerLowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 11h1 stopEstimated CO₂ · per passengerLowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
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Piers
Koh Nang Yuan Pier
Koh Nang Yuan: An Island Paradise
Where Is Koh Nang Yuan and Why It's Hard to Reach
Koh Nang Yuan is a tiny privately-managed island cluster made up of three islets joined by a natural sand isthmus, sitting just off the northwest coast of Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand. There is no bridge or causeway from the mainland or from Koh Tao itself — the sandbar only connects the three islets to each other, not to Koh Tao. The only way to reach Koh Nang Yuan is by boat across open water, so planning your route through Koh Tao first is essential.
How to Reach Koh Nang Yuan
Because Koh Nang Yuan has no pier of its own for scheduled ferries, every visit starts with getting to Koh Tao. Most travelers arrive at Koh Tao's Mae Haad Pier, the island's main harbor, via ferry connections from Chumphon or Surat Thani on the mainland, or from the neighboring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. These Gulf of Thailand routes are typically operated by established ferry companies such as Lomprayah, Seatran Ferry, and Songserm, alongside slower night-boat services — check ferry tickets to Koh Tao for the specific crossing that fits your starting point.
Once on Koh Tao, boats to Koh Nang Yuan leave from Mae Haad Pier and nearby beach launch points. Transfers are run as shared longtail or speedboat shuttles and are also commonly bundled into half-day and full-day snorkeling tours that stop at Koh Nang Yuan along with other dive sites around Koh Tao. Some Koh Tao resorts and tour desks also arrange direct return boat transfers on request. We don't display a fixed timetable or price for this short hop, since it depends on the operator and tour package — check current options and departure times when you book your Koh Tao stay.
Reaching Koh Nang Yuan via Koh Samui or Koh Phangan
If you're based on Koh Samui or Koh Phangan rather than Koh Tao, the most practical option is a day-trip boat tour that includes the ferry crossing to the Koh Tao area and a stop at Koh Nang Yuan, rather than booking the legs separately. This avoids the need to coordinate a mainline ferry, a Koh Tao pier transfer, and a private boat charter on your own.
Planning Your Journey
Koh Nang Yuan is privately run and charges a separate entrance fee on top of any boat transfer, and the island limits daily visitor numbers during peak periods — arrive early or book an organized tour to avoid being turned away. The island has also closed to visitors for extended periods in the past for coral and environmental restoration, so confirm current access status before finalizing your trip.
- Book your ferry to Koh Tao in advance, especially in high season (December to April), when Gulf of Thailand crossings sell out.
- Allow buffer time between your mainland or inter-island ferry arrival at Mae Haad Pier and your onward boat to Koh Nang Yuan, as these are separate bookings.
- Bring cash for the island entrance fee, as card payment isn't guaranteed on-site.
- Check the tide and weather forecast — the sandbar connecting the three islets can be partly submerged at high tide, and boat transfers may be suspended in rough conditions.
What to Expect on Koh Nang Yuan
The island's viewpoint above the sandbar is the main draw, giving a wide outlook over the three islets and the surrounding turquoise water. The shallow bay is also a popular snorkeling spot, with coral visible close to shore without needing a boat trip out. Facilities are limited to what the island's operator provides, so pack water, sun protection, and any snorkeling gear you prefer to use, since rental options on-site may be limited.
Most visitors treat Koh Nang Yuan as a half-day stop rather than an overnight stay, pairing it with a wider Koh Tao itinerary that includes diving or snorkeling at the island's other well-known sites.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the pier that my ferry departing from?
Phuket Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents; we are happy to help.
Ferry Samui :
FWe understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
Bali Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Departure Point Information page for the most comprehensive information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
What are the tourist seasons ?
Phuket Ferry :
Phuket really just has two seasons, which are known as "high season" and "low season" (or "green season"). During the low season months (May- September), boat numbers are reduced. During the high season (October - April), boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options.
Ferry Samui :
There are three distinct weather seasons on the tropical island of Koh Samui: the dry season (December until February), the hot season (March until August) and the rainy season (September until November).
Bali Ferry :
Bali actually has a variety of tourist periods, notably around the Balinese New Year, 15 December - 15 January, and 1 June - 30 September. During these high traffic periods, boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options. The quieter periods are between 16 January - 30 April and 1 October - 14 December historically.
Will bad weather affect my travels?
Ferries are large and can usually operate in the rain, except in extremely bad weather. During storms or strong winds, the journey may take a little longer than usual.
Speedboats are more likely to be canceled than ferries. If a trip is canceled due to bad weather, you can choose to receive a refund or reschedule. Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip.
On rough days, we recommend bringing motion sickness medication and taking it about 20 minutes before boarding if you are prone to seasickness. Boat staff may also provide Dramamine upon request, but you will need to remain indoors during rough conditions. On sunny and calm days, the sun deck is open for passengers to enjoy the weather.
What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?
At the pier named on your ticket, look for the staff of the ferry operator listed on your ticket as well. Please present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device—they’ll provide you with a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers have staff available to help load your luggage. In Koh Samui, staff are usually stationed at booths near the boarding area; at other locations, they’re typically near the boats, wearing their company uniforms.
When will I receive my ticket confirmation?
After completing your online booking, your reservation will remain in “Pending” status until it is processed. Once confirmed, we will send your e-ticket via email. The process is usually very quick.
On the day of travel, please present your e-ticket to the ferry staff at the relevant booking counter. If you do not receive your confirmation within 24 hours, contact us immediately.
What are the baggage allowances?
Your ferry e-ticket includes ferry transport, baggage fees, and handling. The free baggage allowance per person is 20–25 kg, depending on the operator. If your baggage exceeds this limit, you can pay the extra fee directly to the ferry operator in cash.
To check the baggage allowance for your specific trip, please refer to the trip details for your selected route.
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