Bus + ferry (combined ticket)
Best balance of price and smooth transfers
Private car + ferry
Door-to-door journey with flexible timing and minimal hassle
Bus + ferry
Cheapest option with one ticket and easy transfers
Separate tickets
More planning needed and risk of missed connections
Quick answer: Travelling from Krabi to Koh Samui gives you three solid choices: a combined bus/van + ferry for a budget‑friendly route, a private car/taxi + ferry for more comfort and direct transfers, or a flight (though limited) if you prioritise speed and are willing to pay more. Book your tickets or private transfer to Koh Samui online.
At a glance:
- 📍 Travel distance: approx. 250–270 km (via Surat Thani/Donsak).
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus/van + ferry ~4–9 hours | Car/taxi + ferry ~4–6 hours | Flight ~1 hour
- 💰 Price range: Bus/van + ferry ~US$ 14–43 pp | Car/taxi + ferry ~US$ 190–460 | Flight ~US$ 100–240 pp.
- 🚌 Bus/Van + Ferry: Best value; good when you’re comfortable with intermediate transfers and longer time.
- 🚕 Car/Taxi + Ferry: More comfortable and direct; ideal for groups, luggage.
- ✈️ Flight: Fastest option; worth it if you find a direct seat and cost isn’t a major concern.
Last updated in April 2026
From Krabi to Koh Samui you can travel by bus/van, car + ferry or plane.
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- Spanning approximately 250 km via Surat Thani, the journey from Krabi to Koh Samui presents travelers with three enticing options. You can opt for a direct flight, embark on a bus + ferry adventure, or indulge in a private taxi + ferry experience. For the quickest and most convenient journey, consider the direct flight from Krabi Airport to Koh Samui Airport, taking just 1 hour at a cost of $100-240 per person. But these direct flights are very limited, there are also fligths with transfer in another city. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus + ferry route via Surat Thani, offering a budget-friendly option taking 4-9 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $14 to $43 per person.
- Departure points in Krabi include Krabi town, Krabi International Airport, Ao Nam Mao Pier, Ao Nang, Krabi Bus Terminal or Noppharat Tara beach, with services provided by various private operators. Additionally, private car/taxi + ferry services are available, albeit at a higher cost. This option takes 4-6 hours and costs approximately $190-460 per car. Taxis can be hailed from Krabi town, Krabi Airport, or Ao Nang, offering hotel transfers. From Krabi’s Ao Nang, you can also opt for a ferry or speedboat to Koh Phi Phi.
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- Koh Samui Island, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, lies approximately 35 kilometers off the east coast of Thailand, boasting an expansive area of around 250 square kilometers, ranking it as the third-largest Thai island. The island’s coastal lowlands nurture indigenous fruit cultivation, while its mountainous center is adorned with lush rainforests. As a premier tourist destination, Krabi serves as a popular starting point for many travelers venturing to Koh Samui.
- With its own international airport and a myriad of ferry options from Surat Thani town, Krabi offers three main routes for reaching Koh Samui: bus/van + ferry via Surat Thani, direct flights or flights with transfers, or private car/taxi with a driver + boat / ferry. Among these, the most favored and economical choice is the bus + ferry option via Surat Thani. From Koh Samui, travelers can also embark on a ferry journey to Koh Phangan or, theoretically, a boat to Koh Tao. Discover the details on reaching Koh Samui from Krabi below. Conveniently, you can easily book and purchase join tickets or direct flights to Koh Samui from Krabi online.
| Travel Option – Krabi to Koh Samui | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bus / Van + Ferry | 4-9 hours | $14-43/pp |
| Direct Flight | 1 hour | $100-240/pp |
| Private Taxi / Car + Ferry | 4-6 hours | $190-460/car |
How do I get from Krabi to Koh Samui?
1. BUS/VAN + FERRY from Krabi to Koh Samui
👉 Bus/van + ferry is a popular and budget-friendly way to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and flexible routes
- ✔️ Travel time: ~4–8 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $20–33 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate (land transfer + ferry connection)
- ✅ Best Option: Combo tickets with companies like Lomprayah or Raja Ferry
- 💡 Tip: Book your tickets online in advance and arrive at the departure point at least 30–60 minutes early.
A popular option for land transport from Krabi to Koh Samui among ordinary or low-cost travelers is a trip by modern bus and ferry / boat, mostly via the city of Surat Thani or Don Sak Pier. In most cases, this transport option is a little more expensive than traveling by minivan and ferry.
Transportation by bus and ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui takes about 4-8 hours, depending on the company and the given connections or waiting for the ferry. You can take the bus from various places in Krabi, such as Krabi Town, Ao Nang, Krabi Bus Terminal, Ao Nam Mao Pier and other places.
You will then arrive on Koh Samui by boat mostly to Na Thon Koh Samui, Chaweng, Bo Phut, Lipa Noi and other places. You will always see this information about bus departures and arrivals in Koh Samui when searching for tickets online. Companies that offer these transfers to Koh Samui are, for example, Lomprayah, 12GO Transport or Raja Ferry.
Most of them are well-known and proven trouble-free companies operating various similar connections in this part of Thailand. Combined bus and ferry tickets from Krabi to Koh Samui range from $20-33/pp, these prices vary by company and route. There are usually fewer classic larger buses on offer than smaller minivans.
You can easily search and buy your bus and ferry tickets from Krabi to Koh Samui online well in advance. It is advisable to arrive at the departure point in Krabi at least 30-60 minutes before the departure of the bus. Also, always read all transfer instructions and follow all company terms and conditions.
| Bus + Ferry | Departure in Krabi | Arrival in Koh Samui | Join Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | 08:00 | 11:45 | From $33.00 |
| Lomprayah | 11:30 | 15:45 | From $33.00 |
| 12 GO Transport | 10:15 | 16:30 | From $27.00 |
| 12 GO Transport | 11:00 | 18:30 | From $22.00 |
| 12 GO Transport | 13:00 | 19:00 | From $27.00 |
| Raja Ferry | 10:00 | 15:30 | From $20.00 |
| Raja Ferry | 11:30 | 16:30 | From $20.00 |
| Phantip 1970 | 09:00 | 15:30 | From $21.00 |
| Phantip 1970 | 11:00 | 19:30 | From $27.00 |
| Phantip 1970 | 13:30 | 18:30 | From $18.00 |
| Krabi Sea Pearl | 09:30 | 15:30 | From $18.00 |
| Krabi Sea Pearl | 11:30 | 16:30 | From $18.00 |
| Phangan Tour | 10:00 | 15:30 | From $16.00 |
| Phangan Tour | 12:00 | 17:00 | From $15.00 |
| KP Travel and Tour | 10:30 | 15:30 | From $18.00 |
| KP Travel and Tour | 13:00 | 17:30 | From $19.00 |
| Thumbthim | 07:00 | 11:45 | From $43.00 |
| Thumbthim | 10:00 | 14:45 | From $37.00 |
| Lanta Super Concord | 07:00 | 11:30 | From $34.00 |
| Lanta Super Concord | 08:30 | 14:00 | From $31.00 |
| Lanta Super Concord | 10:00 | 15:45 | From $24.00 |
| Lanta Super Concord | 11:00 | 15:45 | From $24.00 |
| Ramon Trans. | 09:00 | 14:30 | From $22.00 |
| RTC Trans. | 09:00 | 15:30 | From $19.00 |
| RTC Trans. | 10:30 | 16:30 | From $19.00 |
| Van2 Travel | 09:00 | 14:30 | From $19.00 |
2. VAN + FERRY from Krabi to Koh Samui
👉 Van/minibus + ferry is a flexible and often the cheapest way to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and those wanting frequent departure options
- ✔️ Travel time: ~4–7 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $14–43 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate (shared minivan + ferry transfer)
- ✅ Best Option: Combo tickets with companies like Phantip 1970 or Krabi Sea Pearl
- 💡 Tip: Book your tickets online in advance and choose pickup from your hotel area for added convenience.
Another land transfer option from Krabi to Koh Samui, and usually the cheapest in some cases, is a trip by minivan/minibus and ferry again via Surat Thani or Don Sak Pier. The minivan and ferry timetables on Koh Samui are usually significantly longer than regular larger buses and the range of companies operating these combined services is relatively wide. These smaller minivans are for a limited number of passengers, usually a maximum of 14 passengers.
Companies that offer minivan transfer and ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui are Phantip 1970, 12GO Transport, Krabi Sea Pearl, Future Travel and Service, Phangan Tour 2000, Sapthaweephol Tour and Travel, KP Travel and Tour, Lanta Super Concord, Thubthim Siam Travel, Ramon Transport, RTC Transport, Van2Travel or others.
The transfer by minivan and ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui takes about 4-7 hours, usually the same time as in the case of larger buses. However, this time may sometimes vary slightly or there may be a delay during the journey. You can again leave minivans from the same places as buses, i.e. from Krabi town, Ao Nang, Ao Nam Mao Pier and similar places.
Minivan transfer and ferry to Koh Samui from Krabi costs between $14-43/pp, this is the price for minivan transport and ferry/boat combination. Again, these Koh Samui minivan and ferry combo tickets are easy to find and buy online ahead of time. The timetable is long and you will definitely choose your suitable combined connection.
3. FLIGHTS from Krabi to Koh Samui
👉 Flight is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui.
- ✔️ Best for: travelers who want to save time and avoid land transfers
- ✔️ Travel time: ~1 hour (up to ~5 hours total including transfers)
- ✔️ Cost: $100–240 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (direct flight with minimal hassle)
- ✅ Best Option: Direct flights operated by Bangkok Airways
- 💡 Tip: Book your flight online in advance for better prices and check the schedule due to limited availability.
A quick and convenient transport option from Krabi to Koh Samui is a direct flight. However, the disadvantage of this option is the limited flight schedule of direct flights, then there are also flights with a transfer, e.g. in Bangkok. Air transfer from Krabi to Koh Samui is also only offered by Bangkok Air.
Flights are operated from Krabi International Airport to Koh Samui Airport, this airport is in the northern part of the island. Krabi International Airport is approx. 25 km from the city of Krabi and the best way to get from Krabi Airport (KBV) to Krabi without a car is to bus which takes 20 min and costs $3 – $26.
A direct flight from Krabi to Koh Samui takes about 1 hour, but you also need to factor in the time for the transfer to the airport and waiting before departure. In total, this transport option can take up to 5 hours, but it is significantly more comfortable than the land transport option via Surat Thani.
Air transfer from Krabi to Koh Samui costs between $100-240/pp, usually a direct flight can be cheaper than a connecting flight. These prices can also change during the year or season, they are never fixed. You can search and book flights to Koh Samui from Krabi online in advance. Due to the lower prices, it is advisable to search for flights with a longer lead time, in the tourist season the prices of these flights can be even higher.
Air transfer is not a bad transfer option if you want to avoid ground transfer and Surat Thani city. In the end, however, it can take the same time as a trip combined with a minivan and a ferry, the disadvantage is also the higher prices of these flights. It is therefore not a suitable transport option for low-cost travelers.
4. PRIVATE CAR + FERRY from Krabi to Koh Samui
👉 Private car + ferry is the most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui.
- ✔️ Best for: groups, families, and travelers wanting door-to-door service
- ✔️ Travel time: ~4–6 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $190–460 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: high (private vehicle + ferry transfer)
- ✅ Best Option: Transfers with companies like Glassflower or Bangkok Taxi24
- 💡 Tip: Split the cost among passengers and choose hotel pickup/drop-off for maximum convenience.
The last transfer option from Krabi to Koh Samui is a transfer by private car/taxi with driver and ferry via Surat Thani or Don Sak Pier. This transfer option is the most expensive among these places, but it will offer you modern and fast cars just for you and a subsequent ferry transfer to Koh Samui.
Bangkok Taxi24, Kim Transfers Thailand, Glassflower, Van2Travel, Easyride Services and Firstplan Transport Services offer this option of transportation to Koh Samui. These companies offer smaller classic cars, SUVs and or minivans for groups of travelers, minivans are suitable for group travel, but they are also the most expensive.
They are mostly well-rated companies, have experienced drivers and offer transfers on other popular routes in Thailand. With these cars, you can depart from the location of your choice and you can also arrive at various locations on Koh Samui, if the company offers such an option.
BOOK TAXI / CAR to Koh Samui ➜
Transfer by private car and ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui takes about 4-6 hours, but the indicated travel time may vary slightly, depending on your specific travel route. Private car/taxi and ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui ranges from $190-460/car, these prices vary by car type.
The fare also usually includes a ferry transfer from Don Sak Pier / Surat Thani to Koh Samui. It’s also a rule of thumb that smaller classic cars are a cheaper option than larger multi-passenger minivans. Again, you can easily find and book your private car and ferry to Koh Samui online ahead of time.
| Taxi Service | Departs in Krabi | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok Taxi 24 | Ao Nang, Krabi | Any Time | From $238.00 |
| Bangkok Taxi 24 | Ao Nang, Krabi | Any Time | From $252.00 |
| Bangkok Taxi 24 | Ao Nang, Krabi | Any Time | From $286.00 |
| Bangkok Taxi 24 | Airport | Any Time | From $221.00 |
| Bangkok Taxi 24 | Airport | Any Time | From $252.00 |
| Bangkok Taxi 24 | Airport | Any Time | From $286.00 |
| Firstplan Trans. | Airport | Any Time | From $220.00 |
| Firstplan Trans. | Airport | Any Time | From $250.00 |
| Firstplan Trans. | Town | Any Time | From $250.00 |
| Firstplan Trans. | Town | Any Time | From $279.00 |
| Glassflower | Town | Any Time | From $226.00 |
| Glassflower | Town | Any Time | From $253.00 |
| Van2Travel | Town | Any Time | From $220.00 |
| Easyride Services | Ao Nang, Town | Any Time | From $210.00 (Eco) |
| Easyride Services | Ao Nang, Town | Any Time | From $280.00 (SUV) |
| Easyride Services | Ao Nang, Town | Any Time | From $459.00 (Van) |
❓ FAQ + TIPS – Travel route from Krabi to Koh Samui:
1. How to book tickets or flights from Krabi to Koh Samui?
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- Book bus + ferry tickets, car or flights from Krabi to Koh Samui on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
2. What is the travel time from Krabi to Koh Samui?
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- Travel by bus/van + ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui (via Surat Thani) takes about 4-9 hours.
- Travel by plane (direct flight) from Krabi to Koh Samui takes about 1 hour.
- Travel by private car + ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui takes about 4-6 hours.
3. What is the travel distance from Krabi to Koh Samui?
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- Travel distance from Krabi to Koh Samui is about 270 km by land.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui?
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- Travel by bus/van + ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui (via Surat Thani) costs about $14-43/pp.
- Travel by plane (direct flight) from Krabi to Koh Samui costs about $100-240/pp.
- Travel by private taxi/car + ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui costs about $190-460/car.
5. From which places in Krabi buses depart to ferry transfer?
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- Buses depart from various bus stations and places (Ao Nang, Krabi town, Krabi Bus Terminal, Ao Nam Mao Pier, Krabi Airport), it depends on the company, check 12go.asia.
6. Is there also a private transfer/private taxi from Krabi?
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- Yes, you can use your private transfer/taxi from Krabi to ferry transfer, book your private transfer on 12go.asia.
7. Is it possible to travel by train from Krabi to Surat Thani?
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- No, it is not possible to travel by train from Krabi to Surat Thani because there is no railway between these cities. The only way how to get to Surat Thani from Krabi is to travel by bus/van or private taxi.
8. What is the best way of getting from Krabi to Koh Samui?
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- The best and fastest way of getting from Krabi to Koh Samui is to travel by plane. There are direct flights from Krabi to Koh Samui, but these flights are limited and it is not a cheap way of transport.
9. What is the cheapest option of transfer from Krabi to Koh Samui?
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- The cheapest option of transfer from Krabi to Koh Samui is to travel by tourist bus + ferry via Surat Thani. The most cheapest way of this transfer should cost about $14-17/pp.
10. What are the ways of transport from Koh Samui to Surat Thani?
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- There are various boats and ferries from Koh Samui to Surat Thani, travel by boat or ferry is the only way how to travel between these sites.
11. Is it possible to get from Krabi Airport to Koh Samui?
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- Yes, you can travel directly from Krabi Airport to Koh Samui. There are some private companies (e.g. Seatran Discovery) and you can book join ticket (bus+ferry ticket) from Krabi Airport to Koh Samui on 12go.asia.
12. Where you can travel from Koh Samui?
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- From Koh Samui you can travel to nearby islands in this area: Koh Tao or Koh Phangan. There are various boats and high speed ferries between these islands in Chumphon Archipelago. You can book ferry/boat tickets from Koh Samui to Koh Tao or Koh Phangan online on 12go.asia or Baolau. You can also travel to Bangkok, there are direct flights or you can also visit Phuket – by ferry + bus or you can book a direct flight. You can also take a ferry / speedboat to Surat Thani town, it is a popular travel route in the Gulf of Thailand.
13. Which are the most popular and nice islands in Thailand?
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- There are a lot of various interesting, nice and also isolated or tourist islands in Thailand. Most of them are in the Gulf of Thailand or Phang Nga Bay. Read this article: The Best Islands in Thailand.
🧭 Popular travel routes from Krabi:
If you’re planning your next trip from Krabi, here are other popular routes you can take by bus / van, ferry, taxi, flight:
These are the most popular travel routes from Krabi for visitors exploring Southern + Northern Thailand.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Krabi to Koh Samui
Traveling from Krabi to Koh Samui involves a combination of land and sea transport across southern Thailand, but understanding some lesser-known details can make your journey much smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Choose Joint Tickets Including Bus and Ferry for Seamless Transfers
Many travel operators offer combined tickets that include bus transfers from Krabi to ferry piers and the ferry ride itself to Koh Samui. These joint tickets reduce waiting times and simplify logistics, often at better prices.
2. Opt for the Donsak Pier Ferry for the Fastest Route
Ferries to Koh Samui depart mainly from Donsak Pier near Surat Thani, not directly from Krabi. Selecting transport that routes through Donsak shortens your sea crossing and avoids longer, less frequent ferries.
3. Prepare for Transfers at Multiple Stops Along the Way
Expect a few stops and transfers during your journey, including changing buses or vans en route to the ferry pier and switching boats upon arrival on Koh Samui. Pack light and keep essentials handy to ease these transitions.
4. Avoid Tight Schedules to Accommodate Possible Delays
Weather conditions, traffic, or ferry delays can add unexpected waiting times. Allow buffer time if you have onward travel plans or accommodations requiring check-in by a certain hour.
5. Use Waterproof Covers and Secure Your Luggage During Transfers
Handling luggage across wet docks and ferry decks can be challenging. Use waterproof bags or covers and secure straps to protect your belongings from splashes and sudden movements.
6. Consider Private Transfers if Traveling with Group or Heavy Luggage
While shared buses and ferries are budget-friendly, private car and boat transfers offer door-to-door service and more comfort, particularly useful if traveling in groups or with bulky luggage.
7. Bring Snacks and Water for the Journey
Some transfer routes include long stretches without convenient stops. Carry snacks and water, especially if traveling during off-peak hours or monsoon season.
8. Plan Your Arrival Time to Match Accommodation Check-In on Koh Samui
Ferry arrivals may not always align with hotel check-in times. Confirm check-in policies or arrange early check-in or luggage storage to avoid waiting.
Tip: Tickets combining bus and ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui can be searched and booked online in advance, ensuring smoother connections, better prices, and stress-free travel — especially during peak seasons.