Koh Tao to Railay: Compare Times & Book Tickets Online
How to get from Tao Island to Railay
Koh Tao to Railay: How to Get There
Travelling from Tao Island to Railay is a multi-leg journey rather than a single direct crossing, since Railay has no road access and is reached only by longtail boat. This route is seasonal and operates in selected months of the year. If you are searching outside this window, the direct connection is not running — check the Koh Tao to Koh Samui ferry route or the Koh Tao to Koh Phangan ferry route for year-round alternatives towards the mainland, then continue overland to Krabi.
Route Overview
The journey combines a the available transport from Koh Tao to the mainland with an onward road transfer and a final short boat hop into Railay. Most itineraries route through Chumphon or Surat Thani before continuing to Krabi province. our transport partners operates this connection, with onboard onboard facilities to make the crossing comfortable. For background on the mainland gateway used on this route, see the Surat Thani transport hub guide.
Duration, Frequency, and Price
- Journey time: the scheduled journey time, including the connecting transfer
- Departures: regular departures during the season
- Price from: our online fares per person
Exact timings and fares can shift with sea conditions and operator schedules, so the live times and prices shown on this page reflect the current timetable. Booking your seat in advance is worthwhile mainly to secure your preferred departure and guarantee space during busy periods, rather than for any guaranteed discount.
Departure and Arrival Points
Boats leave from Koh Tao's main pier and, after the mainland and road transfer, arrive at Railay via longtail boat from Ao Nang or Krabi town, landing directly on Railay's beach. If your final stop is elsewhere in the province, the Krabi travel guide covers onward options once you reach the mainland.
Nearby Islands and Alternatives
Travellers connecting through this corridor often combine it with stops on Koh Phangan or Koh Samui, both served by regular ferries from Koh Tao year-round. These islands make practical overnight breaks if your dates fall outside selected months of the year or if ferry schedules do not align on travel day.
Booking This Route
Use the booking form on this page to check live departure times, confirm seat availability with our transport partners, and reserve your place from Tao Island to Railay. For the return leg, see ferries from Railay back to Koh Tao.
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.
