Ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island

Ferries from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island sail approximately 26 times per week and are available with Raja Ferry. There is no direct sea crossing between the two islands, as Koh Samui is in the Gulf of Thailand and Phuket is on the Andaman coast. Instead, tickets combine a ferry to the mainland with a road transfer to Phuket Town, for a total journey of around 6 hours 52 minutes.

Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island Ferry: Quick Facts

How long is the ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island?

The ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island takes between 7 hours 30 minutes and 8 hours depending on the ferry route, operator, and ship that you choose.

Journey times by port

Both routes leave from the west side of Koh Samui, cross to the mainland by ferry, then continue by road to Phuket Town. The port you choose changes the journey time and operator.

Which port should I choose?

• Nathon Pier is the faster option, with a typical journey of 6 hours and 52 minutes on a high-speed ferry.
• Lipa Noi Port takes about an hour longer but has the same 14 sailings a week, so it is a good alternative if sailings from Nathon do not suit your travel plans.

Do ferries run all year between Koh Samui Island and Phuket Island?

Yes, both Koh Samui to Phuket Town options run all year. The ferry leg is on the Gulf of Thailand, which is generally calmest from January to September, with more rain and rougher seas possible from October to December. Because the journey involves a road transfer as well as a ferry, leave a generous buffer before flights.

Ferry season by month

• January to September: generally the calmest conditions on the Gulf side of Thailand.
• October to December: more rain and swell, so sailings are more likely to be delayed and it pays to keep plans flexible.

What is the fastest ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island?

The fastest ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island is on the Koh Samui (Raja Ferry Lipa Noi Port) to Phuket Town ferry with Raja Ferry in 7 hours 30 minutes.

Is there a car ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island?

No, you are currently not able to take your car on the ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island.

Getting around Phuket without a car

Phuket is a large island, and its beaches are spread out. Most visitors use taxis, pre-booked transfers, ride-hailing apps or hire a scooter. If you are heading to a beach resort, arrange a transfer in advance, as the journey from Phuket Town can add extra time on top of your ferry ticket.

How far is it from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island?

There are approximately 107 miles (173km) and 93 nautical miles between Koh Samui Island and Phuket Island.

What does it cost for a ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island?

The price of a ferry from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island can differ by route, operator, season and whether you are sailing on a high-speed ferry or conventional ferry.

What affects the ticket price?

• Operator and vessel type (high-speed ferry or conventional ferry).
• Port, as the faster Nathon route and the slower Lipa Noi route are priced differently.
• Departure time and how far in advance you book.
• Whether the ticket is one way or return, as the price includes the road transfer.

Can you visit Phuket from Koh Samui as a day trip?

No, a same-day return is not practical. Even the fastest journey takes 6 hours and 45 minutes each way, and the return takes about 5 hours 30 minutes, so allow at least one overnight stay. Return sailings are available on every route.

Travel day tips

• Book the earliest departure so you arrive in Phuket with time to reach your hotel in daylight.
• Keep your ticket handy, as it covers both the ferry and the road transfer.
• Times are indicative and change by season, so confirm in the Deal Finder.

Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island Ferry Offers and Discounts

We suggest that you book in advance to ensure that you get the cheapest ferry prices and availability, especially as there are only about four departures a day. Please check out our special offers page to take advantage of all the latest ferry discounts available.

What are the onboard facilities on Koh Samui to Phuket ferries?

Facilities depend on the operator and vessel, but you can typically expect:

• Indoor air-conditioned seating and, on some vessels, an open deck.
• Toilets and luggage storage areas.
• A snack and drinks counter on larger ferries.

Bring a light layer for the air-conditioning and keep valuables, medication and snacks in your day bag, as this is a long travel day.

How do you get to Phuket from Koh Samui?

Koh Samui and Phuket sit on opposite coasts of southern Thailand, so there is no direct boat. The ferry option is a combined ticket with a ferry to the mainland followed by a road transfer to Phuket Town.

From Koh Samui

Both routes depart from the west side of the island. Lomprayah High Speed Ferries runs from Nathon Pier in about 6 hours 52 minutes, and Raja Ferry runs from Lipa Noi Port in about 7 hours 45 minutes.

From Samui resorts and the airport

Travel to Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi Port by taxi or hotel transfer and allow time for traffic, particularly for morning departures. Flights are an alternative if you want a shorter journey, so compare timings before you book.

Where to go after Phuket

Phuket sits at the centre of the Andaman island network, so it is easy to continue your trip.

• Koh Phi Phi: about 1 hour from Rassada Pier, with around 130 sailings a week.
• Koh Lanta: about 1 hour 30 minutes, with around 65 sailings a week.
• Back to Koh Samui: about 5 hours 30 minutes to Nathon Pier, with around 14 sailings a week.

For a Phuket, Phi Phi and Lanta loop, see our 5-day Thailand island itinerary. Before you leave the Gulf, Koh Phangan hosts the monthly Full Moon Party and is a short ferry hop from Koh Samui.

How early should I arrive for the Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island ferry?

Arrive at Nathon Pier or Lipa Noi Port at least 45 to 60 minutes before departure, or earlier if your ticket says so, to check in, load luggage and choose your seat. Leave extra time in high season.

How to book ferry tickets from Koh Samui Island to Phuket Island

Book and compare Koh Samui Island Phuket Island ferry tickets, operators, timetables and prices by using our Deal Finder.

1. Choose your route, date and number of passengers.
2. Compare sailing times, operators and prices.
3. Complete payment and receive your confirmation by email or text message.