Getting from Surat Thani Airport to Tao Island is simple and easy. Whether you prefer traveling by bus, ferry, or speedboat, there are options to suit your schedule and budget. The journey covers around 200 km (120 miles) and can take between 4 hours and 9 hours 30 minutes.
For those arriving at Surat Thani Airport, you'll find convenient connections to Donsak Pier, where ferries and speedboats depart regularly for Tao Island. This makes Surat Thani Airport a great entry point for travelers heading to Koh Tao by ferry or speedboat. Reliable operators like Lomprayah and Phantip provide combined services, ensuring a smooth journey.
If you're looking to go to Tao Island by speedboat or ferry, Surat Thani Airport is one of the best starting points. The trip combines land and sea travel, making it a convenient way to reach the island. Once you arrive, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the island and visit popular spots like Mango Bay and Sairee Beach.
The trip from Surat Thani Airport to Tao Island involves two steps:
Bus Transfer – From Surat Thani Airport to Donsak Pier (takes about 1 hour 30 minutes).
Ferry or Speedboat – From Donsak Pier to Tao Island.
Lomprayah High-Speed Ferries and Phantip are trusted companies that provide this combined service. Ferry times vary, so it’s important to check the schedule before booking.
Ferry Ticket (Standard Bus & Ferry Combo): Starts at THB 700
Speedboat (Faster Option): Starts at THB 1,200
Total travel time can vary depending on weather and ferry services.
Surat Thani Airport: The journey starts at the airport, located about 15 minutes from Surat Thani city center.
Donsak Pier: Ferries and speedboats depart from here. It’s an important hub for ferry travel in the Gulf of Thailand.
Tao Island: Common arrival points include Mae Haad Pier and Sairee Beach, two busy areas where you’ll find hotels, restaurants, and tour services. If you're heading to quieter spots like Mango Bay, local taxis or boats are available from the main piers.
Ferry companies offer several ticket types:
Bus and Ferry Combo: Starting at THB 700
Speedboat Services: Starting at THB 1,200 for a faster journey
Prices vary during peak seasons, so book your ticket early to secure your spot.
Surat Thani Airport: Arrive at least 1 hour before your bus departure to allow enough time for check-in.
Donsak Pier: Arrive 30 minutes before your ferry boarding time. Present your ticket at the counter and follow instructions for boarding the ferry.
Luggage: Most ferry services allow one large bag and a carry-on. Speedboat options may have stricter baggage limits.
Travel Time: The entire trip can take between 4 hours and 9 hours 30 minutes.
Weather Conditions: Bad weather can sometimes extend travel time.
Facilities: Most ferries have air conditioning and seating areas to ensure a comfortable ride.
Train Station Connection: If you're arriving in Surat Thani by train, you can easily connect to the bus services departing from the airport to Donsak Pier.
Booking: It’s best to book your ticket online in advance to compare ferry companies and filter results based on your preferred schedule.
Whether you choose to travel from Surat Thani Airport to Koh Tao Island by ferry and bus, your journey from Surat Thani Airport will be smooth if you plan ahead. Operators like Lomprayah High-Speed Ferries and Phantip provide convenient options with flexible ferry times. Book your ticket early, follow the travel tips above, and you'll soon be relaxing on the beaches of Ko Tao or exploring spots like Mango Bay.
If you're traveling during peak seasons or public holidays, it's especially important to book your ticket early to avoid delays or sold-out services. Popular routes like Surat Thani Airport to Koh Tao by ferry can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is key to securing your preferred travel time. Checking ferry times and arrival points like Mae Haad Pier or Sairee Beach can also help you organize your stay better.
For added convenience, consider choosing a combo ticket that combines your bus transfer from Surat Thani Airport to Donsak Pier with your ferry or speedboat journey to Tao Island. This option simplifies your trip, saves time, and ensures a smoother connection. With proper planning, your trip to Tao Island can be hassle-free and enjoyable.