How to get there
Koh Tao is located in the Gulf of Thailand , and is the northernmost inhabited island in the Samui archipelago. Koh Tao is just a short boat ride from Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and can also be reached from the mainland city of Chumporn.
Getting to Koh Tao from Bangkok
There are two main ports to depart from. If you are coming from the northern part of Thailand, i.e. Bangkok, Chiang Mai etc., then the shortest route is from Chumporn, roughly 3hrs by express boat.
If you have been travelling in southern Thailand and are heading for Koh Tao, then the shortest route is from Surat Thani, a bit further down the coastline from Chumporn. The Surat Thani route is a bit more cumbersome and less flexible than the Chumporn route.
Getting to Koh Tao from Koh Samui
• By far the most comfortable option from Koh Samui is via the Lomprayah Catamaran. In peak season the Catamaran runs twice daily from either Mae Nam or Big Buddha Beach. This changes from time to time for logistical reasons, so please check where you buy the tickets or directly with Lomprayah.
• The Catamaran has a transfer service from the airport and also provided pick up from your resort on Koh Samui.
• Another option is one of the many speed boats operated by local companies on Koh Samui. These are sold through agencies on the island and generally leaves from Mae Nam, Big Buddha, Bo Phut or Nathon. The first one runs approximately 8:30 am and the last generally leaves Koh Samui no later than 11:30 midday. This option is not recommended in rough weather.
• The Songserm Express boat leaves twice daily from Nathon Pier with a brief stop-over in Koh Phangan. Not as good as the Catamaran but a good second option if this isn't running.
• There are several speed boats providing a daily boat service which leaves from Bo Phut pier at around 08:30 and Nathon Pier at around 12:00 noon (If you arrive via the Bangkok-Koh Samui flight, you should be able to catch the 12:00 boat). Note, times can change from season to season)
Getting to Koh Tao from Chumphon
Most people purchase their tickets on Kowsarn Road, Bangkok's main backpacker zone, where hundreds of small tour agencies arrange trips to all destinations in Thailand. It's very easy to get confused about the best route to Chumporn with the endless list of possibilities. However, the most comfortable way is by train.
Another way is by airconditioned bus or minibus, the first often referred to as VIP bus. Both these options are quite cheap but be careful to arrive early to get a good seat.
When you arrive in Chumporn you will need to find the ferry port. Often you will find that for your convenience it is easier booking the boat passage the same place where you bought the bus or train ticket, as most tourist agencies offer 'combined' tickets that include everything.
If you don't choose that option, Songserm Travel, Koh Tao Cruiser and Ekawin Tour offers similar express boat from Chumporn directly to Koh Tao daily. Prices and facilities of these boats are all similar. We prefer the Songserm Boat for comfort.
Getting to Koh Tao from Suratthani
If you have been visiting Thailand's southern parts, then Surat Thani is a good choice. Located slightly south of Chumporn it can be an interesting place to visit in itself, but mainly serves as travel connection from Bangkok to the South of Thailand and to Koh Tao and its sister islands.
Songserm Travel run an express boat service in the morning, stopping in Koh Samui and in Koh Phangnan. There is also a regular night boat which departs from the ferry pier every night at 11 p.m. and arrives in Koh Tao roughly 6 in the morning. Quite a few people find it easier to spend the extra two to three hours going to Chumporn over land and taking the boat from there.
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