Traveling from Ao Nang (Krabi) to Koh Samui is a well-trodden route for visitors heading to Thailand’s Gulf islands. The most popular, reliable, and budget-friendly option is a combined minivan or bus + ferry ticket via Donsak Pier in Surat Thani. This single-ticket option ensures smooth transfers, with multiple operators running daily departures and convenient online reservations.
Fastest and Easiest Routes
- The majority of travelers choose a combined van/bus and ferry ticket, which includes both the road transfer to Donsak Pier and the ferry crossing to Koh Samui.
- Travel duration: 5–7 hours total
- 3.5–4.5 hours by road from Ao Nang to Donsak Pier
- 1.5–2 hours by ferry to Koh Samui
- Popular operators: Phantip 1970, Raja Ferry, Lomprayah, Lanta Super Concord, Krabi Sea Pearl, Van2Travel, Phangan Tour
This option offers peace of mind, as all connections are pre-arranged and ticketed together.
Typical Schedules (2025)
| Operator | Ao Nang Departure | Koh Samui Arrival | Price (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phantip 1970 | 08:00, 09:00, 11:30 | 12:30, 15:30, 16:30 | THB 800–1,000 | Multiple departures daily |
| Krabi Sea Pearl | 09:00, 11:00 | 15:30, 17:30 | THB 750–850 | Reliable mid-morning trips |
| Lanta Super Concord | 07:00, 08:30, 10:00 | 11:30, 14:00, 15:45 | THB 780–1,500 | “Tour” service, faster vans |
| Raja Ferry | 09:30, 11:00 | 15:30, 17:30 | THB 900–1,200 | Large, stable car ferries |
| Van2Travel | 09:00 | 14:30 | THB 780–1,080 | Often includes hotel pickup |
| Phangan Tour | 10:00 | 15:30 | THB 500–700 | Budget-friendly option |
| Future Travel | 12:30 | 18:30 | THB 600–900 | Afternoon departure |
- Earliest departures: around 07:00 from Ao Nang
- Latest departures: around 12:30–13:00
- Typical arrival on Koh Samui: early to late afternoon, depending on the operator
Price Range
- Budget options: THB 500–800 per person
- Standard services: THB 800–1,200
- Premium/faster services: Up to THB 1,500 (e.g., speedboat transfers or express vans)
Budget services may require a transfer through Krabi Town, while premium tickets often include hotel pick-up in Ao Nang.
Travel Tips
- Advance booking: Recommended during high season (December–April, July–August).
- Pick-up points: Some operators collect passengers directly from hotels; others require check-in at a central office in Ao Nang.
- Luggage policies: Standard allowance is one bag (10–20 kg). Oversized or additional bags may incur extra fees.
- Weather: Ferry schedules are usually reliable but may experience delays during the stormy months (November, January).
- Refunds: Policies vary, but many operators offer full refunds if canceled more than 72 hours in advance.
- Comfort & reliability: Phantip 1970, Raja Ferry, and Lomprayah are noted for better comfort and punctuality.
- Arrival piers: Ferries typically dock at Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi Pier on Koh Samui. Travelers should arrange onward transfers (shared taxis or private cars) in advance.
Key Takeaways
- Best value: Combined van/bus + ferry services from operators such as Phantip 1970, Raja Ferry, or Lanta Super Concord
- Fastest connections: Early-morning departures with direct van transfers
- Travel time: 5–7 hours in total
- Recommended strategy: Book an early departure with hotel pick-up for the smoothest experience
FAQs: Ao Nang to Koh Samui Travel
1. How long does it take to travel from Ao Nang to Koh Samui?
Most combined van/ferry journeys take 5–7 hours, depending on the operator and connections.
2. What is the cheapest way to travel?
Budget services like Phangan Tour or Future Travel offer fares from THB 500–700, but they may involve longer travel times.
3. What is the most comfortable option?
Operators like Phantip 1970, Raja Ferry, and Lomprayah are known for comfortable vans and reliable ferries.
4. Can I book a speedboat directly from Ao Nang to Koh Samui?
There are no direct speedboats from Ao Nang. All routes require a road transfer to Donsak Pier, followed by a ferry.
5. Where do ferries arrive on Koh Samui?
Most ferries dock at Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi Pier. Travelers should arrange onward transport to their hotel.
6. Do operators provide hotel pick-up in Ao Nang?
Yes, many operators offer hotel pick-up, though some require travelers to meet at a central booking office.
7. Is advance booking necessary?
Yes, particularly during peak season (December–April, July–August) when ferries and vans fill up quickly.
8. Are ferry schedules affected by weather?
Generally reliable, but delays may occur during monsoon periods, particularly in November and January.
9. How much luggage is included?
Most tickets include 1 bag (10–20 kg). Oversized or additional luggage may incur fees.
10. Can I get a refund if I cancel my ticket?
Refund policies differ by operator, but many provide full refunds if canceled more than 72 hours before departure.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: