Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island by Bus and Ferry
How to get from Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island
Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island by Bus and Ferry
Traveling from Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island is simple and convenient. The journey usually combines a bus and ferry service, making it easy for travelers heading to Koh Samui. You can travel from Surat Thani City or Surat Thani Airport with reliable options available. Both routes offer smooth connections to Koh Samui.
Several ferry companies operate services from Donsak Pier, including Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry. These ferries travel to Koh Samui’s main ports, including Nathon Pier and Lipa Noi.
Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island Schedule and Pricing
Traveling by bus and ferry from Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island, the journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. This includes the bus ride from Surat Thani Airport to Donsak Pier and the ferry journey to Koh Samui.
Schedules can vary depending on the operator and the season. Ferries to Koh Samui run frequently, especially during peak travel times. It’s advisable to check the Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island schedule and price in advance. In order to secure your preferred time slot. Booking your tickets online ensures you get the best schedule and pricing options.
Departure Details
The trip starts at Surat Thani Airport, where you'll find bus services connecting to Donsak Pier. Buses are timed to match ferry departures, making the transfer seamless. If you’re already in Surat Thani City, you can also catch a bus directly from the city center to Donsak Pier.
Once at Donsak Pier, you can choose between Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry services. Both ferry companies offer comfortable seating and facilities onboard.
Upon arrival on Koh Samui, ferries dock at either Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi. Nathon Pier is the main ferry port. It is close to many resorts. Lipa Noi is ideal for those staying on the island’s west coast. Ferries also connect to nearby islands like Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
Pricing Information
The combined bus and ferry ticket prices usually range from THB 400 to THB 600 per person. Prices vary depending on the season and the ferry company you choose. Booking early helps you secure the best rates, especially during busy periods.
Check-in Instructions
When departing from Surat Thani Airport, visit the bus and ferry service counter to check in. Staff will guide you on where to board your bus. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. It would allow enough time for check-in and luggage handling.
At Donsak Pier, follow the ferry company’s instructions for boarding. Both Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry have clear signs and staff available to assist you. Don’t forget to carry your booking confirmation and ID for check-in.
Important Travel Information
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The total distance from Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island is 150 km (93 miles).
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The full journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, though travel times may vary due to weather conditions.
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Both Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry offer amenities like snacks and restrooms onboard.
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If you’re traveling during peak seasons, book your tickets in advance to avoid delays.
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Ferries travel to Koh Samui frequently, so there are several options throughout the day.
Conclusion
Traveling from Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island by ferry and bus is easy and affordable. The journey combines a short bus ride from Surat Thani Airport to Donsak Pier, followed by a relaxing ferry trip to Koh Samui. Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry provide frequent services to Koh Samui’s main ferry ports, including Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier and Lipa Noi. These routes are ideal for those heading to popular beaches or resorts on the island.
If you're planning to visit nearby islands like Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, you can easily connect from Koh Samui. The total journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, but travel times may vary depending on weather conditions. To ensure a smooth trip, it’s best to check the Surat Thani Airport to Samui Island schedule and price in advance and book your tickets early.
Ferries travel to Koh Samui frequently, giving you plenty of options throughout the day. Booking online helps you secure your spot, especially during peak travel times. With comfortable bus services, organized check-in processes, and reliable ferry companies, traveling from Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui is a stress-free experience.
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.
