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How to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui
Boats cross between Koh Phangan and Koh Samui in about 20 minutes to 1 h, many times a day. Fast catamarans run from Thong Sala to Samui, car ferries run to Samui's west coast, and the Haad Rin Queen links Haad Rin with Big Buddha.
Best option: Ferry. Frequent ferries are the only way between the islands, and the fast boats take well under an hour.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Fast catamarans from Thong Sala to Maenam or Bangrak (Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery among the operators), car ferry from Thong Sala to Samui's west coast (Raja Ferry), or the Haad Rin Queen from Haad Rin to Big Buddha pier | about 20 min to 1 h depending on the boat | many a day, from early morning to early evening | about THB 200–400 per person | The Haad Rin Queen is popular for Full Moon Party nights; book Samui airport-bound boats with time to spare. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Check which Samui pier your boat uses: Nathon, Maenam, Bangrak (Big Buddha) or Lipa Noi are far apart.
- If flying out of Samui, choose a boat to Bangrak or Maenam, the closest piers to the airport.
- Seas can be rough during the north-east monsoon (roughly November to January); delays are common.
- Around Full Moon Party dates, boats and accommodation fill fast.
Common questions
How long is the ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui?
About 20 minutes to 1 h. Fast catamarans from Thong Sala to Maenam or Bangrak take about 20–30 minutes, and the car ferry to the west coast about 1 h. The Haad Rin Queen from Haad Rin to Big Buddha pier takes about 50 minutes. Check current timetables, especially in the monsoon season.
Which pier on Samui should I choose?
It depends on where you are going. Maenam and Bangrak (Big Buddha) are on the north coast, close to the airport and the busy beaches of Bophut and Chaweng. Nathon and Lipa Noi on the west coast are quieter and farther from the airport. Book a boat to the pier nearest your hotel.
Can I take a car or scooter from Phangan to Samui?
Yes, on the car ferry from Thong Sala to Samui's west coast, which takes vehicles. Check whether your rental agreement allows it; many rental shops on Phangan do not. It is usually simpler to rent a new scooter or car on Samui.
Do I need to book ferries in advance?
Normally you can buy tickets at the pier or through your hotel on the day. Around the Full Moon Party and during Thai holidays, book a day or two ahead, especially for the Haad Rin Queen and fast boats. Joint tickets including a taxi to your hotel are often sold.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.