Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) - Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier)
Ferries to Koh Samui Island
Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) - Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier)
Ferries to Koh Samui Island
Ferries from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) are operated by 4 ferry companies, including Boonsiri High Speed Ferries, Songserm, Seatran Discovery & Lomlahkkhirin. The crossing typically takes around 30 minutes. There are currently 126 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $10. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) today.
Last updated: 11/3/2026
Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) ferry prices typically range from $7 to $55. The average ferry price from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) is around $26. The cheapest fares usually start from $7, making this route a favorite for Thailand Island Hopping and gap year adventures. The average foot passenger ticket costs $26.
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated November 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) ferry cost approximately $7.46, making these some of the best student ferries for anyone island hopping around Thailand on a budget.
Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. Booking early is typically the most reliable way to secure lower fares and better availability.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.
Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets, a handy saving for anyone on a gap year exploring Thailand and the wider region. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.
Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that you must present proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address at check-in.
There are around 126 weekly sailings from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier).
Boonsiri High Speed Ferries provide 2 sailings daily, 13 sailings weekly. Songserm provide 5 sailings daily, 34 sailings weekly. Seatran Discovery provide 4 sailings daily, 30 sailings weekly. Lomlahkkhirin provide 9 sailings daily, 62 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season, especially around Full Moon Party dates on Koh Phangan, so it's worth booking ahead.
The first ferry from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) usually departs at around 07:30, with the last sailing leaving Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) Port at approximately 18:00.
Yes, day trips between Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) and Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) are very popular thanks to the short crossing time and frequent sailings, perfect for a 5-7 day island-hopping itinerary. For inspiration on the best things to do in Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier), please visit our blog.
The fastest ferry from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) is with Songserm in 20 minutes.
The fastest ferries from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) usually cost around $26.34.
No, ferry operators currently do not allow cars on sailings between Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) and Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier). If you wish to bring your car on the ferry, then you can use our Deal Finder to find alternative routes.
Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) ferry.
For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.
Bicycles are currently not permitted on ferries sailing between Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) and Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier).
Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) with Boonsiri High Speed Ferries, Songserm, Seatran Discovery & Lomlahkkhirin, a popular option for student ferries and backpackers hopping between islands without a vehicle.
There is no cabin accommodation on the Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) ferry.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) and Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check whether an overnight option is available, along with current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.
Pets are currently not allowed on ferries traveling from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier). Please use our Deal Finder to search for alternative routes that allow pet travel.
Please be aware that even where pets are not permitted on board, different regulations may apply to passengers traveling with guide dogs or assistance dogs. We recommend contacting our customer service team directly to confirm the specific rules for your preferred sailing. For general information, visit our Special Assistance Help page.
The Koh Phangan to Koh Samui ferry is a short and convenient island hop in the Gulf of Thailand, connecting two of the most popular islands in the region. The crossing departs from Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan and arrives at Bangrak Pier on the northern coast of Koh Samui. As this is one of the shortest ferry crossings in the region, overnight cabins aren't available, but it's still worth knowing what to expect onboard, especially if you're traveling with luggage or children.
Most boats on this route offer indoor seating in an enclosed, air-conditioned cabin. This is the standard option for most travelers and works well whether the sea is calm or a little choppy.
Outdoor deck areas are available on most boats and are a nice way to enjoy the short crossing on a clear day. You'll get good views of Koh Phangan's coastline as you leave Thong Sala, with Koh Samui's northern coast and the small pier at Bangrak coming into view fairly quickly given the short distance between the two islands.
Most boats on this route don't offer food or drink service, given the very short crossing time. It's a good idea to bring your own water from Koh Phangan before boarding if you think you'll need it. Thong Sala Pier has shops and convenience stores nearby where you can pick up supplies before you board.
All boats on this route give you access to an open deck or outdoor area. On a clear day, the views of the Gulf of Thailand are pleasant, and the crossing between Koh Phangan and Koh Samui is short enough that the open deck is a nice place to stand for the whole journey if the weather allows.
There are no dedicated play areas on this route, but the crossing is so short that most children manage it very easily. The air-conditioned cabin is a comfortable space for younger children, and the brief journey time means there's very little time for even the most restless young travelers to get uncomfortable.
There's a small amount of space for luggage inside the cabin, though it can be limited on smaller boats. Bangrak Pier on Koh Samui's northern coast is a convenient arrival point, with taxis and songthaews available nearby for onward travel to Chaweng, Lamai, Nathon, or other parts of the island.
A direct ferry service operates between Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) and Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) all year round. As one of the busiest inter-island ferry routes in the Gulf of Thailand, the ferry is the most convenient way to travel between Koh Phangan and Koh Samui.
The recommended arrival time at Koh Phangan Thong Sala Pier depends on the operator you are traveling with, so passengers should check their booking confirmation in advance.
As a general guideline, we recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding. Booking is strongly recommended, particularly around the Full Moon Party when sailings can sell out quickly.
Thong Sala Pier is well signposted and straightforward to navigate, with clear indications directing passengers to the correct departure point. Arriving in good time is advisable for a smooth and unhurried journey, particularly during the peak tourist season and around the Full Moon Party when passenger volumes increase significantly.
Parking is available in the vicinity of Thong Sala Pier, with options located close to the terminal. We recommend checking availability in advance, particularly during busier periods.
A car park is situated a short distance from the main pier, suitable for both short and longer stays while visiting Koh Samui.
Pre-booking a parking space is advised, as availability can be limited during the peak tourist season and around Full Moon Party weekends.
Passengers seeking accommodation near Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan ahead of their journey are encouraged to consult our accommodation page for a range of options and competitive rates. A variety of properties are available to suit different budgets and preferences.
Staying close to the port can simplify your departure considerably, allowing for a more relaxed start to the journey. We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best rates, particularly during peak periods when availability can become limited.
Operators on this route aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility wherever possible, although facilities vary by vessel. We recommend contacting your chosen operator directly for detailed guidance prior to travel, as boarding at both Thong Sala Pier and Bangrak Pier can involve steps and is subject to sea conditions.
Where available, vessels may offer assistance with boarding, designated seating, and crew support. Passengers requiring assistance should notify the operator well in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Luggage allowances on the Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) route vary by operator. As this is a foot-passenger-only service, passengers are advised to travel with manageable amounts of luggage for a comfortable journey.
Ferries to Koh Samui from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) arrive at Bangrak Pier on the northern coast of Koh Samui, close to the iconic Big Buddha Temple. From the pier, taxis, songthaews and minivans are readily available to trasnport passengers to resorts and attractions across the island, including Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Fisherman's Village in Bophut.
For onward travel, Koh Samui Airport offers flights to Bangkok and other destinations across Thailand and the wider region. For more information, check out our port guide below.
Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier), and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.
To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.
Booking your Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.
The best time to book ferries from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) is as early as possible. Booking in advance often secures lower prices, along with a wider choice of departure times, seating, and cabin options. We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, particularly during peak holiday seasons. Prices can vary depending on demand and availability.
If no sailings from Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) to Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.
After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.
Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.
Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.
At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $10 |
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| Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) - Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $26 | |
| Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) - Koh Samui (Bangrak Pier) Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Koh Phangan Island |
| Destination | Koh Samui Island |
| No. of Operators | 4 |
| Operators | Boonsiri High Speed Ferries, Songserm, Seatran Discovery & Lomlahkkhirin |
| Average Price | $26 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 19 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 126 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 30 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 20 m |
| First Ferry | 07:30 |
| Last Ferry | 18:00 |
| Distance | 5 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 3 November 2026.
Thong Sala Pier is Koh Phangan's main ferry port, located in Thong Sala, the island's largest town, and the busiest gateway for ferries to Koh Phangan. As Koh Phangan does not yet have a commercial airport, the pier offers the main passenger connections to Koh Samui, Koh Tao and the Thai mainland, making it the island's key hub for both day trips and onward travel.
Address: Thong Sala Pier, Thong Sala, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
Koh Phangan has several ferry piers, with Thong Sala Pier handling most scheduled services to Koh Samui, Koh Tao and the mainland. Haad Rin, on the island's southeast tip and best known for the Full Moon Party, has its own pier for some passenger services, while Thong Nai Pan is used by smaller boats on the northeast coast. Terminal allocation depends on the ferry operator and route, so check your booking confirmation before you set off.
Expert tip: With so many daily sailings, you can usually choose a departure time that suits you, but boats fill up around Full Moon Party dates and at the end of holiday periods, so book ahead if your travel day matches a peak date.
Bangrak Pier, also known as Big Buddha Pier, is a ferry pier on Koh Samui's northeast coast, close to the island's famous Big Buddha statue, and one of the main arrival points for ferries to Koh Samui from Koh Phangan. The pier offers frequent connections to Koh Phangan, making it a convenient entry point for travelers staying on Samui's northern and eastern beaches.
Bangrak Pier serves foot passengers only. Ferries run year-round, but timetables change seasonally and sailings may be delayed or canceled in rough weather, particularly between October and December.
Address: Bangrak Pier (Big Buddha Pier), Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Koh Samui has four main ferry piers: Nathon Pier on the west coast, Bangrak (Big Buddha) Pier in the northeast, Mae Nam Pier on the north coast and Raja Ferry Lipa Noi Pier on the west coast. Bangrak is the busiest for short crossings to Koh Phangan, while Nathon serves Koh Tao and the mainland. Pier allocation depends on the ferry operator and route, so always check the arrival pier on your booking confirmation.
Expert tip: Koh Samui's piers are spread around the island, and the drive between them can take 30 to 45 minutes. If you're heading for Chaweng or Lamai, Bangrak Pier is usually closer than Nathon or Lipa Noi, but always confirm your arrival pier with your hotel before you book.
Koh Phangan is a laid-back island in the Gulf of Thailand, wedged between Koh Samui and Koh Tao, and is best known internationally for its monthly Full Moon Party. Beyond the parties, the island offers jungle waterfalls, quiet northern beaches and a growing wellness and yoga scene, and it serves as a convenient stop on the way to Koh Tao's dive sites.
Best time to visit: The driest and sunniest months are around December to April. The heaviest rain typically falls from October to December, when rough seas can affect ferry schedules, so check the forecast before island-hopping.
Koh Samui, Thailand's second-largest island, is a tropical destination in the Gulf of Thailand known for palm-fringed beaches, luxury resorts and a lively food scene. As a major hub for Gulf island ferries, Koh Samui offers regular connections to Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the mainland, making it an ideal starting point for exploring southern Thailand.
Best time to visit: Koh Samui is at its driest and sunniest from January to April. The heaviest rain usually falls between October and December, when rough seas can disrupt ferry schedules.
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