We spent several incredible days in Koh Tao, enjoying the breathtaking sunsets, snorkelling in the enchanting underwater world, and indulging in authentic Thai delicacies. While we were reluctant to leave this amazing island paradise, it was time to head back home. Traveling from the world’s diving hub back to the mainland is a seamless experience when you book a combined transport service. Here is the detailed summary of our journey from Koh Tao to Surat Thani:
- i. Book ferry + bus combo tickets online with BusOnlineTicket.co.th
- ii. Board the Lomprayah High-Speed Ferry at Mae Haad Pier
- iii. Brief stopover and transfer at Koh Phangan Pier
- iv. Continue the sea journey to Surat Thani (Donsak Pier)
- v. Arrival and final bus transfer to Surat Thani Railway Station
Ferry Schedule & Fares: Koh Tao to Surat Thani
Planning your trip from Mae Haad Pier is easy with daily high-speed catamaran services provided by Lomprayah. Below is the current schedule for the ferry and bus combo:
| Departure Times | Starting Price | Departure & Arrival Point |
|---|---|---|
| 09:30 | THB 900 | Mae Haad Pier (Koh Tao) → Surat Thani (Donsak Pier) |
| 15:00 | THB 950 |
1. Booking and Check-in Process
We booked our ferry + bus combo tickets from Koh Tao to Surat Thani Railway Station via BusOnlineTicket.co.th to ensure we had a guaranteed seat. On the departure day, we went to Koh Tao’s Mae Haad Pier to check in at Lomprayah’s counter to exchange our e-voucher for physical tickets and destination stickers.
2. Boarding the Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran
Lomprayah is famous for its high-speed catamarans, which provide a stable and fast ride. Several staff members are on board to assist passengers with loading luggage at the front of the ferry. You also have the option to keep smaller bags with you at your seat.
The interior is air-conditioned with spacious seating and plenty of legroom. For entertainment, there are televisions at the front, and a kiosk selling snacks and beverages is available at the back of the cabin.
Travel Tip: If you enjoy fresh sea air and panoramic views, you can head to the upper open-air deck during the journey for the best photo opportunities.
3. Stopover at Koh Phangan Pier
After approximately one hour, the ferry arrived at Koh Phangan. As part of the route, all passengers must alight here to wait for the connecting ferry. The pier has several sheltered waiting areas, and local vendors are available if you want to grab a quick sandwich or a cold drink during the one-hour wait.
4. Journey to Surat Thani Donsak Pier & VIP Comfort
The journey from Koh Phangan to Donsak Pier takes another 3 hours. To make the trip more comfortable, we chose to upgrade to the VIP room for an extra ฿100 per person. The VIP room offers extra-wide reclining seats and a much quieter atmosphere.
The ferry is also equipped with clean restrooms. While the cubicles are compact, they are well-maintained for passenger use during the long sea crossing.
Note: The VIP upgrade can be paid directly to the staff on board the ferry, subject to seat availability. It is well worth it for the added comfort!
5. Arrival at Donsak Pier and Final Bus Transfer
Upon alighting at Surat Thani Donsak Pier, several Lomprayah buses were waiting to transport passengers to various destinations. Following the instructions from the staff, we identified the bus heading to the railway station.
The buses are modern and air-conditioned. We placed our large luggage in the compartment beneath the bus and found our seats for the final leg of the journey.
The bus ride from Donsak Pier to the Surat Thani Railway Station takes approximately 2 hours. We arrived in the evening with plenty of time to spare before boarding our train back to Bangkok.
Arrival at the Surat Thani Railway Station, the gateway to Southern Thailand.
