How to get from Phuket to Ko Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is well connected with Phuket. You can get from Phuket to Koh Samui by ferry + bus, private transfer, or flight.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a family seeking comfort, or a traveler in a hurry, there’s an option that suits your style.

The cheapest way is by bus + ferry combo (from USD 16), the most popular option is the direct flight (around 1 hour), and the fastest way is also by flight.

From jungle hikes and local culture to luxury resorts and picture-perfect beaches, Koh Samui offers a different kind of Thai island experience.

This guide breaks down the best ways to travel from Phuket to Koh Samui, including insider tips and what to expect on each route.

Transportation Options

1. Bus + Ferry

Journey Duration: 8-10 hours

First, you must take the bus to Surat Thani, where you will transfer to a ferry boat to Koh Samui. After that, the boat will leave you at one of the piers in Koh Samui. 

Where you get dropped off depends on what ticket you choose since there are different offers for different locations.

Some companies even offer a hotel pick up and drop off, while others only go to the port. Prices start at USD 16 and go all the way to USD 32.

It’s a long journey, but the buses and ferries are new and comfortable and offer different amenities for an easy and relaxing trip! The boats even have an outside seating area and a cafe where you can get snacks and drinks!

As this option for traveling to Koh Samui from Phuket is quite popular, you might want to book your tickets well in advance!

Phuket to Koh Samui Bus + Ferry Schedule

• 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM: Ferry + Standard Bus

Total price: USD 16

• 07:30 AM to 04:30 PM: Ferry + High-Speed Bus

Total price: USD 17

• 06:30 AM to 03:30 PM: Ferry + Standard Bus

Total price: USD 27

• 06:30 AM to 04:30 PM: Ferry + Standard Bus

Total price: USD 32

2. Private Transfer + Ferry

Journey Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes

You can also get to Koh Samui by booking a private transfer! However, this option requires you to buy the ferry ticket on your own at the port, which should not be a problem since ferry tickets are relatively cheap.

While looking for a taxi can take up a lot of time, not all drivers are ready to cover such long distances, and the trip will probably cost you a fortune; a pre-booked transfer will be waiting for you at your exact location on time!

The trip duration is around 7 hours; depending on how many people travel with you, prices can vary. 

Therefore, we recommend this travel option for families with children, large groups of tourists, and travelers with large luggage. 

If you are traveling with a few people, booking a car for USD 187 is the most convenient choice, but if you have up to 9 passengers, you can go with a minivan that costs USD 220!

The vehicles are new and comfortable, and you will get picked up by an English-speaking driver that can help you with your luggage!

After you get dropped off at the port, you must take one of the regular ferries that will take you to Koh Samui in no time!

Bookaway

On Bookaway, you can check all available transportation options from Phuket to Ko Samui. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.

3. Flight

Journey Duration: ~1 hour

The Phuket Airport is just 30 kilometers out of town, and you can get there by taxi or a low-priced shared shuttle.

The flight to Koh Samui is very quick—only about 1 hour! Bangkok Airways operates the planes from Phuket to Koh Samui, which provides direct transfers.

However, plane schedules and prices vary depending on the season. So, if you decide to fly from Phuket to Koh Samui, it’s better to check availability and book your tickets online!

Best day tours in Koh Samui

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions