Koh Samui to Koh Phangan is one of Thailand\’s shortest and most-used ferry routes — 25 km separating two very different islands. The catamaran takes just 30 minutes and runs multiple times daily. Whether you\’re heading over for the Full Moon Party or a week of yoga and quiet beaches, this guide covers every departure, pier, and operator.
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The Ferries: Operators and Departure Points
Three main operators cover the Koh Samui–Koh Phangan route, departing from different piers on Samui\’s north coast:
- Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran: Departs from Nathon Pier and Bangrak/Maenam piers. Journey time 30 minutes. Fastest and most comfortable. Fares from ~450–600 THB (~$13–17 USD). Departs multiple times daily.
- Seatran Discovery: Departs from Bangrak Pier (Big Buddha area). Journey time ~30 minutes. Reliable, frequent, fares from ~250–350 THB (~$7–10 USD).
- Raja Ferry: Slower car ferry option — takes vehicles and motorbikes. Useful if bringing a bike across. Journey time ~1 hour. Fares from ~150 THB (~$4 USD) foot passenger.
Which Pier to Use?
- Bangrak Pier: 7km from Chaweng Beach (~15–20 min taxi). Serves Seatran and Lomprayah. Best for travelers staying in Chaweng or Bophut.
- Nathon Pier: West coast, 15km from Chaweng (~30–40 min taxi). Serves Lomprayah. Best for travelers staying near Nathon or arriving by ferry from the mainland.
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Arrival on Koh Phangan
All passenger ferries arrive at Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan\’s south coast — the island\’s main hub with ATMs, tour agencies, motorbike rentals, and songthaews to all beaches. From Thong Sala:
- Haad Rin (Full Moon Party beach): ~30 min by songthaew or taxi (~150–200 THB)
- Chaloklum / Bottle Beach (north): ~45 min by songthaew (~100–150 THB)
- Srithanu (west, yoga/wellness area): ~15 min (~80 THB)
Full Moon Party: Booking Tips
The Full Moon Party happens monthly at Haad Rin Beach — one of Asia\’s largest beach parties drawing 10,000–30,000 people. If you\’re traveling around Full Moon dates:
- Book ferries well ahead — boats fill completely 2–3 days around Full Moon
- Book accommodation on Koh Phangan months ahead for Haad Rin area
- Day-trip option: Many travelers stay on Koh Samui and take the last evening ferry to Phangan, party, and return on the first morning ferry
- Return ferries run through the night on Full Moon dates — check the schedule with your operator
Koh Phangan Beyond the Full Moon
Koh Phangan has a different, quieter side that most party-goers miss. The north coast (Bottle Beach, Chaloklum) is remote and peaceful — accessible only by boat or rough track. The west coast around Srithanu and Ban Tai is the island\’s yoga and wellness hub, with dozens of studios and retreats. Thong Nai Pan Yai and Noi on the northeast coast are arguably the island\’s best beaches.
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Quick Summary
| Operator | From | Time | Fare from |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | Bangrak / Nathon | 30 min | ~450 THB |
| Seatran Discovery | Bangrak | 30 min | ~250 THB |
| Raja Ferry | Nathon | ~1 hour | ~150 THB |
Related Guides
- Koh Phangan to Koh Tao: Ferry Guide
- Gulf of Thailand Island Hopping: Samui, Phangan, Tao
- Kuala Lumpur to Koh Samui
- Hat Yai to Koh Samui
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