How to Get to Koh Tao (Flights, Ferries & Honest Tips)

Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand — and getting here is part of the journey. There’s no airport on the island, so everyone arrives by boat, but the process is straightforward once you know your options.

This guide explains the most up-to-date and reliable ways to get to Koh Tao, including the newer Boonsiri ferry service, plus a few honest tips to help you travel without stress.

Flying to the mainland and continuing by bus + ferry is often much cheaper than flying to Koh Samui.

• Frequent flights from Bangkok
• Easy to book combined transfer tickets

Typical travel times:
• Surat Thani → Koh Tao: 5–7 hours total
• Chumphon → Koh Tao: 3–4 hours total

? Best for: Travellers who want value
without sacrificing reliability.

If you’re travelling from Bangkok and don’t mind a longer journey, this is a popular and cost-effective option.

Overnight trains to Chumphon offer sleeper cabins, allowing you to wake up near the ferry pier. Bus + ferry combo tickets are also widely available and easy to book.

⏱️ Total travel time is usually around 8–10 hours overnight.

? Best for: Budget travellers and those saving on a night of accommodation.

All ferries arrive at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao’s main port. The main ferry operators currently serving the island include Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, Songserm, and the newer Boonsiri service.

Boonsiri has quickly become a popular choice, especially for travellers coming from Bangkok or Chumphon. The company operates modern buses and ferries with well-coordinated transfers, clear schedules, and simple one-ticket bookings. Travel times are similar to other operators, but the overall experience often feels more organised and relaxed.

Boonsiri is a good option if you prefer everything handled in one booking rather than arranging separate tickets yourself.

Coming from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan

If you’re already island hopping, getting to Koh Tao is very straightforward. Ferries from Koh Samui usually take around 1.5–2 hours, while ferries from Koh Phangan take roughly 1–1.5 hours. There are multiple daily departures on both routes.

Sea Conditions & Timing

Even with modern ferries like Boonsiri, sea conditions can affect crossings. Morning ferries are usually calmer, while afternoon trips can be rough during certain seasons. Delays and cancellations are possible during bad weather.

We always recommend arriving on Koh Tao at least one day before starting a diving course, especially if your schedule is tight.

Adding buffer days wherever possible will make your trip much less stressful. Avoid booking flights on the same day as your last dive, choose larger ferries if you’re prone to seasickness, and travel light — Koh Tao is small and hilly, and you don’t need much once you’re here.

A slower plan almost always leads to a better experience.

Getting Around Once You Arrive

Koh Tao is compact, but the roads can be steep. Most visitors use taxi transfers or walk if they’re staying near the pier. Scooter rental is common, but only recommended if you’re experienced, as accidents are frequent on the island.

If you’re staying at Echo Hostel, we’ll make sure you know the easiest and safest way to get there.

Need Help Planning Your Route?

If you’re unsure which route or ferry makes the most sense for your trip — including whether Boonsiri is the best option for your dates — just get in touch.

Tell us where you’re travelling from, when you’re arriving, and what diving you’re planning. We’ll help you plan something comfortable, realistic, and stress-free.

© Echo Divers Koh Tao