Ferry (Lomprayah)
Fastest crossing with multiple daily departures available
Seatran / Boonsiri
Modern boats with smoother ride and comfortable seating
Songserm ferry
Cheaper tickets but slower and fewer departures daily
Late afternoon boats
Higher chance of delays and rough sea conditions
Quick answer: The only way to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is by ferry, speedboat or catamaran. The journey takes about 1–1.5 hours and tickets cost around US$13–17 per person. Boats depart from Thong Sala Pier and arrive at Mae Haad Pier. Booking online in advance is recommended during the high season.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: Approximately 50 km between the islands.
- ⏱️ Travel time: ~1 to 1.5 hours by ferry or speedboat.
- 💰 Price range: US$13–17 per person depending on boat type and service.
- 🚢 Boat options: Ferries, speedboats, and catamarans providing flexibility and comfort.
Last updated in March 2026
Travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao by Ferry, Speedboat or Catamaran.
The only way to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is by ferry, speedboat or catamaran. Boats depart from Thong Sala Pier and arrive at Mae Haad Pier after a journey of about 1–1.5 hours. Tickets usually cost between $13–17 per person, and operators such as Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery and Songserm run daily services.
There is no airport on Koh Tao, so all visitors arrive by sea. Ferry tickets can be booked online in advance and e-tickets are accepted by most operators. From Koh Tao, you can continue by ferry to Koh Samui or return to Koh Phangan.
Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, famous for diving, snorkeling and beautiful beaches. It is connected by regular ferries with Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, making island hopping easy and convenient.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Types of Transportation: | Speedboats, Catamarans, High-speed Ferries |
| Travel Time: | 1-1.5 hours |
| Cost (Thong Sala Pier to Mae Haad Pier): | $13-17 (prices may vary by season) |
| Transport Companies (Koh Phangan to Koh Tao): | Lomprayah, Lomlahkkhirin, Seatran Discovery, Songserm |
| Departure Point: | Thong Sala Pier |
| Arrival Point: | Mae Haad Pier |
How to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
1. BOAT / FERRY from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
👉 Ferry / speedboat is the only and fastest way to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao.
- ✔️ Best for: all travelers moving between nearby islands
- ✔️ Travel time: ~1–1.5 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $13–17 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium (ferries, speedboats, or catamarans)
- ✅ Best Option: Services with companies like Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, or Songserm
- 💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance and check departure instructions carefully.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Departures from Thong Sala Pier.
The only way to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is by ferry, speedboat or catamaran. Operators such as Lomprayah, Lomlahkkhirin, Seatran Discovery and Songserm run regular daily services between the islands.
Most boats depart from Thong Sala Pier and arrive at Mae Haad Pier. The crossing takes about 1–1.5 hours, with speedboats being the fastest option.
Tickets cost about $13–17 per person and can be booked online in advance. Mobile e-tickets are accepted by most operators, but always check the latest boarding instructions before departure.
Arrive at the pier at least 30–60 minutes before departure. During the low season, ferry schedules may be reduced or affected by weather conditions.
| Ferry Company | Departure in Koh Phangan | Arrival in Koh Tao |
|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | 08:30 | 09:30 |
| Lomprayah | 13:00 | 14:15 |
| Lomprayah | 16:45 | 17:45 |
| Lomlahkkhirin | 12:00 | 13:30 |
| Lomlahkkhirin | 15:00 | 16:00 |
| Songserm | 12:30 | 14:15 |
❓ FAQ + Info – Travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
How to book ferry tickets from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
Book ferry tickets online via 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜. Mobile e-tickets are usually accepted.
How long is the ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
The ferry or speedboat journey takes about 1–1.5 hours.
What is the distance from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
The ferry route between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao is approximately 50 km.
How much does the ferry cost?
Ferry tickets usually cost between $13-17 per person, depending on the company and season.
What is the luggage allowance on the ferry?
Most ferry companies allow one backpack or suitcase up to 20 kg.
How to travel from Koh Tao to Koh Samui?
Travel by ferry only. See this guide: How to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui.
Which pier do ferries depart from in Koh Phangan?
Most ferries to Koh Tao depart from Thong Sala Pier.
Which ferry companies operate this route?
The main operators are Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, and Songserm.
Is there an airport on Koh Tao?
No. The nearest airports are on Koh Samui and in Chumphon.
How to travel from Koh Tao to Bangkok?
The fastest option is a ferry to Koh Samui followed by a direct flight. Read: How to get from Koh Tao to Bangkok.
Where to book accommodation on Koh Tao?
Choose from budget hotels, guesthouses, and beach resorts here: Book a hotel or resort on Koh Tao.
Which islands are worth visiting in Thailand?
Discover the top destinations in this guide: Best Islands to Visit in Thailand.
What is the weather like in Thailand?
Thailand has three seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. Learn more in Weather in Thailand.
What food should you try in Thailand?
Thai cuisine is famous for fresh, spicy flavors and dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and Green Curry. See Thai Cuisine Guide.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Travel by ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is the quickest way to reach one of Thailand’s most popular diving islands.
- Morning Ferries: Early departures usually offer calmer seas and a more comfortable trip.
- Arrive Early: Be at the pier 30–45 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
- Luggage: Keep valuables, electronics and dive gear with you during the crossing.
- Sea Conditions: Ferry schedules may change during rough weather or the monsoon season.
- Arrival: Most ferries dock at Mae Haad Pier, close to many hotels and resorts on Koh Tao.
- Book Early: Reserve ferry tickets in advance during the high season and Full Moon Party periods.
Tip: Ferry tickets from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao can be booked online before departure, helping you secure the best departure time.