Van + ferry (combined ticket)
Best balance of price, simplicity and smooth island transfers
Private car + ferry
Door-to-door journey with flexible timing and minimal hassle
Bus via Krabi
Cheapest option but requires transfer and longer travel route
Train
No railway connection to Koh Lanta island destination
Quick answer: The best way to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta is by a combined van/bus + ferry transfer, offering the best balance of price, convenience and travel time. You can also choose a private car + ferry for a faster and more comfortable door-to-door journey. Booking your transfer in advance is recommended, especially during the high season.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: Approx. 220 km by land and ferry.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Van/Bus + Ferry 5-6 hours | Private Car + Ferry 4-5 hours.
- 💰 Price range: Van/Bus + Ferry US$16-35 pp | Private Car + Ferry US$140-200 per vehicle.
- 🚍 Van/Bus + Ferry: The most popular and affordable option with multiple daily departures.
- 🚕 Private Car + Ferry: Direct hotel pickup, greater comfort and flexible departure times.
Last updated in April 2026
From Surat Thani to Koh Lanta you can travel by van/bus + ferry or private car + ferry.
The journey from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta covers about 220 km by land and sea. The most popular option is a combined van/bus + ferry transfer, taking about 5-6 hours and costing around $16-35/pp. Most services include the ferry crossing.
Koh Lanta is a peaceful island in Thailand, known for its long sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Private car + ferry is the most comfortable alternative, with hotel pickup in Surat Thani and direct transfer to the island in about 4-5 hours.
Book your transfer online in advance, especially during the high season. From Koh Lanta you can continue by boat to Krabi, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Mook or Railay Beach.
| Transfer Mode – Surat Thani to Koh Lanta: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bus / Minivan + Ferry | 5 hours | $16-35/pp |
| Private Taxi/Car + Ferry | 4-5 hours | $140-200/car |
| Bus + Ferry (via Krabi) | 6-9 hours | $25-50/pp |
How do I get from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
1. VAN + FERRY from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta
👉 Van + ferry is the most popular and budget-friendly way to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and solo travelers
- ✔️ Travel time: ~5–6 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $16–35 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium (minivan + short ferry transfer)
- ✅ Best Option: Combo transfers with companies like Phantip 1970, Lomprayah, or Krabi Sea Pearl
- 💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance and check pickup/drop-off points carefully.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Ferry departs from Hua Hin Pier.
The most popular way to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta is by a combined minivan + ferry transfer. It is also the cheapest option, operated by companies such as Phantip 1970, Lomprayah, Krabi Sea Pearl, 12GO Transport, Black Tiger Tour and others.
Most services include the ferry crossing from Hua Hin Pier. Departures are available from Surat Thani Town, the airport or company offices, with arrivals at Saladan Pier or selected hotels on Koh Lanta.
The transfer takes about 5-6 hours and costs around $16-35 per person, including the ferry. Book your ticket online in advance and arrive at least 30-60 minutes before departure.
| Company | Departs in Surat Thani | Arrival in Koh Lanta |
|---|---|---|
| Phantip 1970 | 09:00 | 14:00 |
| Phantip 1970 | 10:30 | 15:30 |
| Phantip 1970 | 12:00 | 17:00 |
| 12GO Transport | 08:00 | 14:30 |
| 12GO Transport | 09:00 | 14:00 |
| 12GO Transport | 10:30 | 15:30 |
| 12GO Transport | 11:00 | 18:30 |
| 12GO Transport | 12:00 | 17:00 |
| Phangan Tour | 09:00 | 13:30 |
| Phangan Tour | 10:30 | 15:00 |
| Ramon Transport | 06:30 | 13:00 |
| Ramon Transport | 11:00 | 16:30 |
| Black Tiger Tour | 11:00 | 16:30 |
| Udomrat Tour | 06:00 | 11:30 |
| Future Travel and Service | 06:30 | 12:00 |
2. PRIVATE TAXI + FERRY from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta
👉 Private taxi + ferry is the most comfortable and fastest way to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta.
- ✔️ Best for: groups, families, and travelers wanting door-to-door service
- ✔️ Travel time: ~4–5 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $140–200 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: high (private car + ferry transfer)
- ✅ Best Option: Transfers with companies like Ramon Transport, Andaman Taxis, or Kanokwan Travel
- 💡 Tip: Book your car online in advance and choose pickup from hotel or airport.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Ferry usually included.
A private car/taxi with ferry is the most comfortable way to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta. You can choose your pickup point in Surat Thani, including the airport, and your exact drop-off location on Koh Lanta.
Private transfers are offered by Ramon Transport, Mr Toon, Andaman Taxis, Kanokwan Travel, Paradies Sea Travel and Tour, Easyride Services, Van2 Travel, At Lanta Vacation and 12GO Transport. Most companies operate modern cars, SUVs and larger minivans, with the ferry crossing from Hua Hin Pier usually included.
BOOK TAXI / CAR to Koh Lanta ➜
The journey takes about 4-5 hours and prices range from $140-200 per vehicle, depending on the car type. Book your transfer online in advance and check the latest pickup instructions before departure.
| Company | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|
| Andaman Taxis | 04:00 | From $147.00 |
| Kanokwan Travel | 05:00 | From $154.00 |
| 12GO Transport | 04:00 | From $167.00 |
| Ramon Transport | 04:00 | From $171.00 |
| Mr Toon | 05:30 | From $171.00 |
| Pradies Sea Travel | 04:20 | From $170.00 |
| Easyride Services | 03:00 | From $170.00 |
| Van2 Travel | 05:00 | From $177.00 |
| At Lata Vacation | 04:30 | From $138.00 |
3. BUS + FERRY from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta (via Krabi)
👉 Bus + ferry via Krabi is a flexible option if you want to explore more places on the way.
- ✔️ Best for: travelers planning a stop in Krabi or Koh Phi Phi
- ✔️ Travel time: ~6–9 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $25–50 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium (bus/minivan + ferry combination)
- ✅ Best Option: Combine minivan to Krabi with ferry services like SiriLanta or Ao Nang Travel
- 💡 Tip: Book tickets separately for each leg and plan connections in advance.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Good option with a stop in Krabi.
You can also travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta via Krabi. This option is suitable if you want to explore Krabi or stop at Koh Phi Phi before continuing your journey. First travel by bus or minivan from Surat Thani to Krabi, then continue by ferry or by boat or minivan to Koh Lanta.
The total travel time is about 6-9 hours, depending on ferry schedules and transfer times. Many travelers choose to spend one or more nights in Krabi before continuing to Koh Lanta.
Expect to pay about $25-50 per person for the whole journey. Tickets for the Surat Thani–Krabi route and the Krabi–Koh Lanta ferry need to be booked separately.
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta:
How to book bus, ferry or private car from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
Book van, ferry or private car tickets online on 12go.asia ➜. You can also search for other travel routes.
What is the travel time from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
Van + ferry takes about 5-6 hours, private car + ferry 4-5 hours, and travel via Krabi about 6-9 hours.
What is the travel distance from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
The route covers about 220 km by road and ferry.
How much does it cost to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
Van + ferry costs $16-35/pp, private car + ferry $140-200/car, and travel via Krabi about $25-50/pp.
Can I book a private taxi from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
Yes. Private cars, SUVs and minivans are available with flexible pickup and drop-off points.
Is there a train from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
No. Koh Lanta has no railway station. The easiest option is to travel by van or taxi with a ferry.
Is there a flight from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta?
No. Koh Lanta has no airport, so all transfers include a road journey and a ferry.
Can I travel via Krabi?
Yes. Travel to Krabi first and continue by ferry or minivan to Koh Lanta. It’s a good option if you want to visit Krabi.
Where can I travel from Koh Lanta?
Popular routes are to Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Koh Lipe and Phuket.
Where can I book accommodation on Koh Lanta?
Browse hotels and resorts here: Book your resort / hotel on Koh Lanta ➜.
Which are the best islands to visit in Thailand?
See our guide to the best islands in Thailand.
How to travel solo in Thailand?
Read our guide: Solo Travel in Thailand.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Thailand ➜
BOOK Your HOTEL in Koh Lanta ➜
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Surat Thani to Koh Lanta
Most travelers reach Koh Lanta by minivan or private car combined with a short ferry crossing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the high season.
- Book Ahead: Morning departures often sell out first.
- Allow Extra Time: Leave at least 1 hour between your flight or train arrival and departure.
- Hotel Pickup: Confirm whether your transfer includes pickup from your hotel.
- Bring Essentials: Carry water, snacks and sun protection for the journey.
- Private Car: The most comfortable option for families, groups or travelers with extra luggage.
Tip: Bus, ferry and private car tickets from Surat Thani to Koh Lanta can be booked online in advance.