Krabi to Koh Samui

About the ride from Krabi to Koh Samui

Brilliant blue waters, white-sand beaches, and unforgettable landscapes await those who visit Krabi, a popular coastal town in Thailand that attracts tourists and locals alike. With more than 200 islands to explore, you will never run out of some sun, surf, and sand. Hop on a boat and start exploring! While you are discovering the most Instagram-worthy beaches and underwater wonders, take some time out to visit Phi Phi Islands and Koh Lanta, located just a few hours by boat from Krabi. Reserve a day for Phra Nang, voted one of the world's most beautiful beaches. 

Krabi is also famous for its lush attractions. Don't forget to visit the spectacular Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. Take a dip in the Crystal Lagoon there and try your luck at spotting the shy Pita Gurney bird. The Wat Tham Sua is another must-visit - walk up its 1,237 steps to offer a prayer to the Buddha and for mind-blowing 360-degree views of the Andaman Sea.

Palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear waters, and an exciting party scene make Koh Samui a fabulous beach destination. Head to Chaweng Beach, the island's party hub, for the most happening bars, restaurants, and ladyboy shows that the island is so famous for. If you are looking for a quiet spot to sunbathe, Lamai Beach is the place to be. 

Koh Samui is well-known for its fantastic diving sites and fabulous opportunities to swim amid multi-hued coral gardens and vibrantly colored fishes, turtles, stingrays, and even sharks. Angthong Marine Park is a must-visit for adventure lovers. It is the perfect day trip from Koh Samui and allows you the chance to kayak, snorkel and hike through the most beautiful surroundings.  

Further inland, the Big Buddha is one of the island's most popular attractions. Other popular spots are the Hin Ta Hin Yai rock formations (they come with equally interesting legends and stories!), the serene Secret Buddha Garden, known for its unforgettable views of the island, and the refreshing Namuang Waterfall.

The distance from Krabi to Koh Samui is around 160 miles (260 km). Travelers can choose from a bus ferry combo, a taxi ferry combo, or hop on a short flight to Koh Samui. Taking a bus or minivan and ferry is one of the most popular ways to travel this route as they are economical. The ferry ride is a scenic one too. If minimizing travel time is a priority, the 50-minute flight from Krabi to Koh Samui is a good option. 

 

What to see when traveling from Krabi to Koh Samui

Sit back, take a nap, read a book, or simply relax as your bus or minivan takes you from Krabi to the Don Sak Pier at Suratthani (Surat Thani). Once on the ferry, you will want to catch sight of the sparkling waters and feel the pleasant breeze of the Gulf of Thailand. Just a sneak peek of what awaits you at Koh Samui. Head out to the viewing deck or find yourself an outdoor seat - the best way to enjoy the beautiful environs. 

 

How to get from Krabi to Koh Samui

Taking a bus/ferry or minivan/ferry 
There are ten bus/ferry departures every day to Koh Samui from Krabi, making this one of the easiest and most popular ways to travel this route. Travel times vary depending on the operator - the High-Speed Bus + Ferry from Lomprayah takes a little more than four hours while the High-Speed Bus + Ferry by Raja Ferry takes about seven hours. The average travel time is around four and a half hours. Ticket prices start from about $17 per passenger.

The journey involves a bus or minivan ride from Krabi to Suratthani and then a ferry transfer from Suratthani to Koh Samui. Buses generally leave in the morning, with a few afternoon departures also available. Depending on the operator, buses leave from various points in the city at Krabi and drop passengers off at the Don Sak Pier in Suratthani.

Passengers travel in air-conditioned buses or minivans for their journey from Krabi to Suratthani. The vehicles are fitted with comfortable, reclining seats, perfect to rest or take a nap. There are no attached washrooms on the buses, but the drivers do make stops along the way to provide for restroom breaks. 

The cruise from Suratthani to Koh Samui is around two hours, though it could be a little more or less depending on the operator you pick. The ferries provide indoor seating with cushioned seats and air conditioning. Outdoor seating is also available on some ferries. Some ferries have a concession or snack stand, and passengers can pick up something to eat or drink during the journey. Most vessels have an attached restroom.

Boats typically arrive at the Nathon Pier, Lipa Noi Pier, or Bangrak Pier in Koh Samui. Some of the operators offer hotel drop at Koh Samui for a small additional fee, and travelers are advised to mention hotel details during the purchase of tickets. 

Songserm, Phantip Travel, Seatran Discovery, Lomprayah, Seatran Ferry, and Raja Ferry are some of the popular and well-known operators offering bus-ferry minivan-ferry along this route. Most operators allow one big bag and a smaller carry-on luggage. A popular tourist destination, ferry rides to Koh Samui get booked rather quickly. Travelers are advised to plan their travel and book tickets as soon as possible. 

Please note that travelers have to show their passport or a valid ID before boarding. Ferry schedules are dependent on weather conditions. In case of bad weather conditions, ferries might get canceled. The operator will offer an option to take the next day's ferry or cancel your ticket and provide a full refund.

Taking a taxi/ferry 
If none of the bus timings suit you, you could consider taking a taxi from Krabi to Suratthani and then transfer to a ferry. This might be a good option if you have extra luggage to deal with or want more space. Do note that you might have to book the taxi and ferry tickets separately, unlike a bus ferry combo ticket that includes both the bus and ferry ride. 

Taking a flight 
Though the most expensive choice, with less than one-hour travel time, taking a direct flight is the fastest way to get from Krabi to Koh Samui. Since both airports are located close to resorts, it is also convenient to get to and from. Ideal for those who prefer the shortest travel times and don't mind paying a premium for it.