How Many Ways to Get to Koh Samui?

There are several ways to travel to Koh Samui, depending on your budget, convenience, and urgency. Here are some of the popular methods:

1. By Plane

• From Bangkok: Bangkok Airways and Thai Smile offer direct flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Samui Airport, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is the most convenient and quickest option.
• From Other Airports: There are some flights from airports such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi to Koh Samui. However, availability may be limited, so it’s best to check flights in advance.

2. By Car and Ferry

• Drive to Donsak Pier in Surat Thani: If traveling by private car or bus, you can drive to Donsak Pier and take a ferry to Koh Samui, which takes about 1.5 hours to cross. The ferry can accommodate cars, making it convenient for those who want to bring their vehicle to use on the island.
• Ferry Service Providers: Popular providers include Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry.

3. By Train and Ferry

• Take a Train from Bangkok to Surat Thani: You can board a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Surat Thani Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 8-12 hours. From Surat Thani, take a car to Donsak Pier, then transfer to a ferry to Koh Samui.
• Advantages of Train Travel: Ideal for those who prefer a comfortable, relaxed journey. You can choose a sleeper seat for added comfort.

4. By Bus and Ferry

• Bus from Bangkok to Donsak Pier: Book a bus from Bangkok (Southern Bus Terminal) to Donsak Pier. Some bus services include ferry tickets, which makes the overall journey convenient. The total travel time is around 12-14 hours.
• Bus and Ferry Service Providers: Providers include Lomprayah and Samui Ferry.

5. By Speedboat

• From Koh Phangan or Koh Tao: If you’re coming from nearby islands like Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, you can take a direct speedboat to Koh Samui. The trip takes around 20-60 minutes, depending on the departure point and weather conditions.
• Speedboat Service Providers: Popular options are Lomprayah and Seatran Discovery.

Summary

There are multiple ways to get to Koh Samui, depending on your convenience and budget. Whether it’s by air for a quick journey, by land and ferry for those bringing their vehicle, or by speedboat from neighboring islands, each method offers unique experiences. Be sure to check schedules and make reservations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.