Planning to travel from Surat Thani to Koh Samui? The Seatran Ferry Surat Thani to Koh Samui is one of the most reliable and affordable ways to cross the Gulf of Thailand, whether you’re travelling as a foot passenger or with a car. This guide explains tickets, pricing, boarding gates, schedules and what to expect onboard.
If you’re planning a wider island trip, you may also find our Best Thailand Islands guide helpful when deciding between Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Phuket.
How to Get from Surat Thani Airport to the Seatran Ferry Terminal
If you’re flying into Surat Thani (URT) and continuing to Koh Samui by Seatran Ferry, you’ll first need to travel to Donsak Pier, where the ferry departs.
Distance
Surat Thani Airport is approximately 95–100 km from Donsak Pier.
Travel Time
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and transfer type.
🚕 Taxi or Private Transfer
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Fastest and most convenient option
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Travel time: around 1.5 hours
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Cost: typically 1,500–2,000 THB for a private car (can vary by season and time of day)
This is the easiest choice if you’re travelling with luggage, in a group, or trying to catch a specific ferry departure.
🚌 Bus + Ferry Combination Tickets
Several operators sell combined bus + ferry tickets from Surat Thani Airport directly to Koh Samui.
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Cost: around 400–600 THB total
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Travel time: 3–4 hours including ferry crossing
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Includes transfer from airport to Donsak Pier and ferry ticket
This is the most budget-friendly option and works well for solo travellers.
🚐 Shared Minivan
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Travel time: about 2 hours
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Cost: approximately 300–500 THB per person
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May require waiting for other passengers before departure
How Much Time Should You Allow?
If arriving by flight, allow:
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At least 3 hours total between landing and ferry departure
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Extra buffer during peak season (December–April and school holidays)
Flights can be delayed, and ferry schedules may adjust depending on weather conditions.
If you’re connecting on the same day, booking a combined bus + ferry ticket can simplify the transfer and reduce stress.
Getting to the Terminal and Understanding the Gates
When you arrive at the Donsak ferry terminal near Surat Thani, you’ll see three lanes/gates:
- Green: Foot passengers (no vehicle)
- Blue: Cars without tickets (buy at the gate)
- Red: Cars with pre‑purchased tickets
If you’ve booked ahead, head straight for the red lane. At the check‑in booth, staff will record your license plate and hand you a boarding ticket. If you haven’t booked, use the blue lane to purchase a ticket on the spot.
Only the driver may stay with the vehicle during loading. All other passengers must disembark and enter via the passenger terminal for safety and efficiency.
Ticket Options and Prices
- Foot passenger: 170 THB per person (children discounted; infants often free)
- Standard car (driver included): 550 THB one way
- Membership (optional): 200 THB for Seatran Member access to the lounge and other perks
You can buy tickets online, at the terminal counters, or from automated machines. If you’re travelling in a group with a vehicle, remember: the driver stays with the car to board, while everyone else walks through the passenger terminal.
Should You Book Seatran Ferry in Advance?
Many travellers wonder whether they need to pre-book the Seatran Ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui or if they can simply buy tickets at Donsak Pier. In low season, you can usually purchase tickets at the terminal without any issues, especially as a foot passenger. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, and space is rarely a problem outside major holiday periods.
However, during high season (roughly December to April), Thai public holidays, and long weekends, ferries can fill up—particularly for vehicles. If you’re travelling with a car or motorcycle, it’s strongly recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred departure time and avoid waiting for the next available sailing. Pre-booking also adds peace of mind if you’re connecting from a flight or on a tight schedule.
In short, walk-on passengers in low season can usually buy tickets on arrival, but anyone travelling with a vehicle or during peak travel periods should reserve ahead.
Boarding with a Car on the Seatran Ferry
- Join the designated vehicle lane and wait for boarding instructions.
- Show the ticket issued at the entrance booth—staff will collect it as you proceed.
- Follow the crew’s directions to park on the vehicle deck. Motorcycles and trucks also board efficiently.
- Once parked, the driver should lock the car and head to the passenger decks.
The loading process is organised and quick, designed to keep turnaround times short and departures punctual.
Boarding as a Foot Passenger on the Seatran Ferry
Head into the terminal building where you can:
- Buy tickets (if not pre‑purchased) at counters or kiosks
- Ask for assistance from service staff
- Browse shops for gifts and souvenirs
- Enjoy the restaurant area with Thai dishes, hot/cold options, semi‑Western bites (including fried chicken), and ice creams
There’s a comfortable seating area if you arrive early.
Seatran Ferry Onboard Experience and Amenities
Most Seatran ferries share a similar layout:
- Vehicle deck (lowest level)
- Main passenger deck (air‑conditioned with ample seating)
- Top deck (open‑air) with lifeboats and safety equipment, plus panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand
Onboard you’ll find:
- A large kiosk with snacks, drinks, coffee, tea, and small souvenirs
- Clean seating areas across decks
- Optional Members Lounge access (with Seatran Membership)
If it’s sunny or hot, the main passenger deck is cooler and more comfortable; head to the top deck for fresh air and photo‑worthy views when weather allows.
Seatran Ferry Surat Thani to Koh Samui Schedules and Crossing Time
- Frequency: Roughly every hour from sunrise to sunset; at times, departures run every 1–2 hours depending on season and demand.
- Duration: About 75 minutes from Donsak to Koh Samui. If you’re staying overnight before the crossing, see our Surat Thani guide for accommodation and transport tips.
- Tip: Always check the latest schedule online or at the port, especially during holidays or inclement weather.
- Booking is easy via their website
For more details on domestic transport, read our Getting Around Thailand guide covering ferries, flights and trains.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Arrive early: Beat queues, especially if travelling with a vehicle or during peak periods.
- Split up smartly: Let the driver queue with the car while other passengers handle tickets and relax in the terminal.
- Keep essentials handy: Sunscreen, water, snacks, and a light jacket (the AC can be cool).
- Check weather and seas: Schedules can adjust for safety; flexibility helps.
- Know the rules: Only drivers may remain in vehicles during boarding.
Looking for accommodation on Koh Samui? Read our full Koh Samui travel guide for beaches, hotels and day trip ideas.
After arriving in Koh Samui, many travellers head straight to Chaweng or Lamai Beach. Compare hotel options in Koh Samui on the map below to secure the best rates during peak season.
Watch our video on the Seatran ferry to Koh Samui
