Krabi to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, known for its stunning beaches, waterfalls and hiking tracks. It also has an airport, serving as a transportation hub for the nearby islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. It’s convenient to catch a connecting ferry to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao for island hopping without backtracking to the mainland.
If you’re traveling from Krabi to Koh Samui, you’ve plenty of options!
The fastest option is to fly from Krabi Airport (KBV) to Koh Samui Airport (USM). The flight time is only about 50 minutes, but you’ll spend extra time checking-in, security, and baggage claim at both airports. Flights typically cost between 4,000 and 7,000 baht.
Traveling by van and ferry is the most popular and cheapest option. Several companies offer combined bus and ferry tickets, which involve a comfortable air-conditioned van ride from Krabi to Donsak Pier on the mainland, followed by a ferry ride to Koh Samui. The total travel time is typically between 3.5 and 5 hours, with prices ranging from 500 to 1,050 baht.
For a more personalized experience, you can hire a private transfer to pick you up in Krabi and then bring you all the way to the hotel in Koh Samui. This option offers more flexibility but is also the most expensive, costing from 7,000 to 9,000 baht.
Below, we will describe each option in detail.
Krabi to Koh Samui by Flight
The fastest option
- Price: 4,000 – 7,000 THB
- Transport type: flight
- Companies: Bangkok Air
- Travel time: 50 min
Catching a flight is the fastest option, gettin you to the island in just 50 minutes! Bangkok Air is your only go-to airline for this journey, offering flights at prices ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 THB.
The whole journey is a pleasure. At Krabi Airport, you’ll find yourself in a fantastic space boasting modern design and modern technology. From the moment you step in, you’ll be greeted by impressive art and sleek design. Plus, there’s a variety of restaurants inside the terminal.
Once you arrive at Koh Samui Airport (USM), you’ll touch down at a privately owned international airport situated on the island of Koh Samui. Located approximately 2 kilometers north of the island’s main city and largest resort center, Chaweng, this airport serves as a convenient gateway to all the wonders of Koh Samui.
Krabi to Koh Samui by Ferry and Van
The cheapest option
- Price: 550 – 1,000 THB
- Transport type: ferry, van
- Companies: Phantip 1970, Raja Ferry, Ramon Transport, Van2Travel, Krabi Sea Pearl, Lomprayah, Sapthaweephol Tour and Travel, Phangan Tour 2000, 12Go Transport
- Travel time: 4.5 – 7 hours
This is a budget-friendly option that’s pretty comfy too. It’s the cheapest way to go, costing from 550 to 1,000 THB. You’ll be traveling by ferry and van to reach your destination.
There are several companies offering this service like Phantip 1970, Raja Ferry, Ramon Transport, and more. The journey takes from 4.5 – 7 hours.
When you book, you’ll find two types of services available. One picks you up right from your hotel in Ao Nang or Krabi, and then drops you off at the pier in Koh Samui. The other option starts from a designated spot in Krabi and arrives at Koh Samui Pier.
The vans are comfortable and have air conditioning, so you’ll stay cool even if it’s hot outside. It’s a popular choice among travelers because it’s convenient and hassle-free.
Just remember, vans are small, so you’re allowed to bring one piece of hand-carry luggage and one larger piece of up to 30 kg.
Make sure to check in at least 30 minutes before your departure time. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to board and get settled in for your journey.
Krabi to Koh Samui by Bus and Ferry
- Price: 672 – 1,100 THB
- Transport type: bus, ferry
- Companies: Raja Ferry, Lomprayah
- Travel time: 3.5 – 7 hours
Lomprayah buses depart from the Krabi Lomprayah Office, and Raja Ferry departs from the Krabi Bus terminal or from the Krabi Sea Pearl Travel meeting point. Both companies have air conditioned buses, and allow maximum 20 kg luggage per passenger. You should come to check in at least 30 minutes before departure.
In Koh Samui, you can choose one of a few arrival points: Lipa Noi or Nathon.
All the buses depart in the morning, with the earliest departure at 08:00 am, and the latest at 11:30 am.
Krabi to Koh Samui by Taxi (Private Transfer)
- Price: 7,000 – 8,800 THB
- Transport type: economy, comfort, van, SUV
- Companies: BangkokTaxi24, Glassflower, Firstplan Transport Services
- Travel time: 5 – 6 hours
You have a few options to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui by taxi. Companies like BangkokTaxi24, Glassflower, and Firstplan Transport Services offer private transfers. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours and costs between 7,000 and 8,800 THB.
Once you book your private transfer, a taxi will pick you up directly from your hotel in Krabi. This offers you convenience and comfort, especially if you have luggage or prefer a direct transfer without any stops along the way. The taxis on this route are available in different types: economy, comfort, van and SUVs.
After a 5-6 hours of travel, you’ll arrive directly at your hotel in Koh Samui, where the taxi will drop you off.