Koh Tao to Bangkok by Ferry and Bus: Your Ultimate Guide
- Crossing time 9h 45m–11h 15m
- Operators 2
- Departures a day 4
850+ THB
Schedules & prices
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Koh Tao to Bangkok by Ferry and Bus: Your Ultimate Guide
Koh Tao to Bangkok: ferry and bus options
Getting from Koh Tao to Bangkok means combining a ferry across the Gulf of Thailand with an onward bus or minivan on the mainland — there is no direct boat all the way to the capital. The journey starts at Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao and ends in Bangkok, typically around the Rambuttri Road and Khao San Road area, a convenient drop-off point for travellers continuing on to other parts of Thailand. If you're planning the trip the other way, see the Bangkok to Koh Tao ferry and bus schedule.
How the ferry-bus combination works
Boats from Koh Tao cross to Chumphon on the mainland, which acts as the main transfer hub for this route. From Chumphon pier or the nearby bus station, coaches and minivans continue overnight or by day to Bangkok. Boonsiri High Speed Ferries and Lomprayah High Speed Ferries Co., Ltd. is a well-established operator on the Koh Tao–Chumphon leg, running a bus and ferry service, and travellers will also find alternative operators such as Songserm Express Boat and Seatran Discovery covering the same crossing, so it's worth comparing departure times and onward bus connections before booking. Onboard onboard facilities are generally available to make the crossing more comfortable.
Journey duration and departures
The full trip from Koh Tao to Bangkok, including the Chumphon transfer, takes around about 1 minutes in total. There are 4 departures available on this route, though exact timings depend on the operator and connecting bus schedule, so it's best to check the live times when booking rather than assume a fixed departure. Services run during all year round, and it's worth confirming availability for your travel dates in advance, especially around Thai public holidays when seats fill up quickly.
Prices and booking
Combined ferry and bus tickets from Koh Tao to Bangkok start from ฿850, covering the Mae Haad Pier departure through to arrival in Bangkok. Booking the ferry and onward transport together as one ticket is usually simpler and more reliable than arranging each leg separately, since it guarantees your connection in Chumphon rather than leaving you to find a same-day bus on arrival.
To lock in your seat, search current departure times and fares for Tao Island to Bangkok and book your ferry and bus combination online before your travel date.
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.
