Travel from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Tao: Island Adventure & Tips
- Crossing time 7h 45m
- Operators 1
- Departures a day 1
1,850+ THB
Schedules & prices
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From Koh Phi Phi to Koh Tao by Ferry & Bus
Koh Phi Phi to Koh Tao: Route Overview
There is no direct ferry between Koh Phi Phi and Tao Island, so the trip is made up of two or three linked legs: a boat off Koh Phi Phi, an overland transfer on the mainland, and a final sea crossing to Koh Tao. Most itineraries route through Krabi or Phuket first, then down to Surat Thani or Donsak on the Gulf coast, where boats to Koh Tao depart. The whole journey is bookable as a single combined ticket, so you only need to check in once even though you change vehicles along the way.
Transport Modes and Operators
The standard combination is ferry plus coach (or minivan), sometimes called a "boat and bus" or "joint" ticket. A morning ferry leaves Koh Phi Phi's Tonsai Pier for Krabi's Klong Jilad or Ao Nammao pier, or for Phuket, where a coach continues overland to Surat Thani's Tapee pier or the Donsak ferry terminal. From there, a several transport options operated by Lomprayah High Speed Ferries Co., Ltd. sails on to Koh Tao, calling at Koh Samui and Koh Phangan on the way. Onboard, expect onboard facilities to make the crossing more comfortable. Because the route mixes carriers, always confirm connection times when booking rather than assuming a fixed changeover window.
Departure and Arrival Points
Departure is from Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi. After the road transfer via Krabi or Phuket, the sea leg to Koh Tao boards at Donsak or the Surat Thani pier. The ferry docks at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao's main port on the island's west side, within walking distance of guesthouses, dive shops, and the village center — so no separate taxi is usually needed to reach your accommodation.
Duration, Frequency and Price
Total journey time for Koh Phi Phi to Tao Island is around the scheduled journey time, and fares start from ฿1,850 per person for the full combined ticket. There are 1 departures a day on this route, and the all year round generally bring the calmest seas for the Gulf crossing to Koh Tao. Because this is a multi-operator journey rather than a single ferry, exact prices and schedules vary by season and by which mainland connection you take — check the live times and fares shown above before booking, rather than assuming a fixed rate.
Planning Your Trip
Given the length of the journey, most travelers set off early and treat it as a full travel day rather than a half-day hop. Booking the ferry and bus as one ticket avoids the risk of missing a connection, and it's worth building in some buffer time at the Surat Thani or Donsak transfer point in case the first ferry runs late. Once you arrive, Koh Tao is best known for its dive schools and calm bays, so many visitors use the crossing as the start of a diving trip rather than a quick day visit.
Book Your Koh Phi Phi to Koh Tao Transfer
Use the search above to compare live departure times, operators, and fares for the Koh Phi Phi to Tao Island route and lock in your combined ferry and bus ticket. If you're planning the return leg, you can also book the ferry and bus from Koh Tao back to Koh Phi Phi for the same journey in reverse.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Do I need to print my ferry ticket or is mobile ok?
You don't need to print your ticket. On the day of travel, simply present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device to the ferry operator staff at the pier named on your ticket—they'll give you a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat.
If you'd prefer a printed copy, you can register as a member on our site, which allows you to easily print out your e-tickets and VAT receipts.
What happens if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?
If your trip is cancelled due to bad weather, you can choose between receiving a refund or rescheduling your journey.
Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip. Also keep in mind that speedboats are more likely to be cancelled than ferries, as ferries can usually operate in the rain except in extremely bad weather — though journeys may take a little longer during storms or strong winds.
To arrange your refund or new travel date, please click the refund button in your personal Liva account.
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.
Can I change the date of my ticket?
Yes, you can change your trip date as long as you provide notice at least 24, 48, or 72 hours before departure—the exact timeframe depends on the ferry operator you booked with. A small service fee of 200 baht per person applies for a second change.
Please note:
Changes must be for the same operator and boat type as your original booking.
The change applies to the entire booking; for example, if your booking is for 3 passengers, we cannot change the date or time for just one of them.
To proceed, please click the chat button to connect with one of our customer service agents, or use any of the official channels listed in the footer of our website.
Warning: Please do not send requests by replying directly to the booking confirmation email, as this is not an official support channel.
Bali Ferry :
Yes, you can. The change is required 7 days' notice prior to departure date. There is a small fee of USD $10 applied per time. Please click the chat button to speak with one of our customer service agents who will take you through the simple booking change process.
If I miss my ferry, can I take the next one?
Unfortunately, it is not possible. Tickets will expire for late arrivals and are strictly non-refundable and non-changeable.
To avoid missing your trip, please plan to arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure to allow enough time for check-in and boarding.
If you do happen to miss your ferry and wish to travel as soon as possible, contact us right away, and we’ll advise you on the best available options.
