The ferry is the most accessible way to cross the strait between mainland Thailand and Koh Samui. Several types of vessel make the crossing, each with different advantages depending on your route and budget.

Seatran and Raja Ferry Car Ferries

The cheapest and largest option. Seatran and Raja Ferry boats depart from Donsak Pier (about 60 km from Surat Thani city) and arrive at Nathon Port on the western coast of Samui. The crossing takes about 1.5 hours. Each vessel carries over 300 passengers, plus cars, motorbikes and freight trucks. If you are bringing a hired motorbike or travelling by car, these ferries are your only option. Sailings run several times a day, including evening departures.

High-Speed Catamarans

Lomprayah and Seatran Express operate fast catamarans. Lomprayah's route runs: Chumphon — Koh Tao — Koh Phangan — Samui (arriving at Maenam on the north coast). Journey time from the nearest stop is about one hour. Catamarans cost more than regular ferries but are the most direct connection if you're island-hopping from Koh Tao or Koh Phangan.

Getting to Donsak Pier

From Surat Thani city by taxi: about 50–60 minutes. From Bangkok: VIP buses include the onward leg to the ferry (combined 'bus + ferry' tickets are widely available). From Surat Thani Airport (SUF) by taxi: about 45 minutes to the pier. Organised transfers from hotels and travel agencies cover all regional arrival points.

Arriving on Samui

Most standard car ferries dock at Nathon Port (northwest coast). Lomprayah catamarans berth at Maenam Beach (north coast). From both arrival points, taxis and songthaews are available to all parts of the island. The distance from Nathon to Chaweng is about 25 km — a taxi takes 30–40 minutes.

Tips

Book tickets in advance during peak season (December–March, July–August): ferries and catamarans can fill up. On the car ferry there is an air-conditioned cabin and an open deck — on a clear day the views from the deck are excellent. If you are prone to seasickness, sit inside and bring anti-nausea tablets, especially during rougher weather in the November–January period.