Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are two of the most iconic islands in the Gulf of Thailand — and if you’re traveling in this part of the country, chances are you’re hopping between them. Whether you’ve just finished diving on Koh Tao or you’re heading to Koh Phangan for its laid-back beaches (or maybe the Full Moon Party!), getting between the two is really straightforward. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan — from ferry schedules to ticket tips and everything in between.
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The good news? Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are only about 45 km (28 miles) apart, and there’s no need for complicated transfers or long travel days. Ferries run daily, and the ride is relatively quick and scenic. But like many things in Thailand, knowing a bit about the timing, companies, and how to book can save you money, time, and a bit of hassle.
TOP TIP
Prebook, Prepay and take the Hassle Away
Get your pick of the best times and prices by prebooking your boat from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan. Pick departures from 07:00 until 17:00. Include transfers on Koh Phangan to get you to your hotel.
Where is Koh Tao, and Where is Koh Phangan?
Both Koh Tao and Koh Phangan sit in the Gulf of Thailand, off the country’s southeastern coast. They’re part of the Chumphon Archipelago, along with their larger and more developed neighbor, Koh Samui.
Koh Tao, meaning “Turtle Island,” is the northernmost of the three. It’s famous for its diving scene, coral reefs, and chill, small-island vibe. South of Koh Tao, about 28 miles (45 kilometers) away, is Koh Phangan — known worldwide for its Full Moon Parties, but also home to serene beaches, jungle hikes, yoga retreats, and quiet villages once the party fades.
Most travelers visiting one of these islands end up hopping to the other, since the journey is short, scenic, and easy. And while they share the same warm turquoise waters, the feel of each island is unique — making the combo perfect for beach lovers, adventurers, and backpackers looking to get the best of both worlds.
How to Travel from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
Getting from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is simple — there’s just one main way to do it: by boat. There’s no airport on either island, and there are no roads or bridges connecting them, so boats are the only option. Luckily, this route is popular, well-organized, and runs several times a day.
You’ll be traveling directly over water, and the ride is short — usually between 50 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions. You can add time to that for checking in and for getting a transfer to your hotel on Koh Phangan. You should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure time, longer if it’s indicated on your ticket.
Boats depart from Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao and arrive at Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan, right in the island’s main town.
Whether you’re a backpacker, a diver with gear, or just heading to the next party, there’s a boat to suit your schedule and budget. You can book online, through a travel agent, or even just walk up and grab a seat if it’s not high season. It’s best though, if you have a hotel reservation or a time constraint to prebook, and then you’re sure of your seat.
Boats from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
If you’re planning this quick island hop, here’s everything you need about the boats—where they leave and arrive, who operates them, and how the schedule looks.
Departure & Arrival Points
- Departure (Koh Tao): All boats leave from Mae Haad Pier, the main hub located in Mae Haad village
- Arrival (Koh Phangan): They dock at Thong Sala Pier, in the island’s main town, with onward transport easily available.
Boat Operators & Types
- Lomprayah Express: High-speed catamarans, dependable and efficient
- Songserm: High-speed boat and combo options (van + boat)
Departure times from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
- 07:00
- 09:30
- 15:00
- 15:30
- 16:30
- 17:00
The exact schedule depends on the season, but you can usually get a boat at these times in high season. Check the current schedule here.
How to Book a Boat from Koh Tao to Koh
Booking your boat is easy—you can do it online or in person, depending on your travel style.
Online via platforms like 12Go
- Head to 12Go Asia, pick your travel date, and select from Lomprayah, Songserm, or other options. Each listing shows departure/arrival times, boat type, duration, and price (roughly US $10–$15)
- Purchasing online gives you an e-ticket via email—no printing required. Show your voucher at check-in (~30–45 minutes prior)
In person:
- Visit a local travel agency on Koh Tao (often in Mae Haad village) or use the Koh Tao Booking Center. Prices are pretty similar to the online rates, and often include the shuttle services at the other end too.
What to Expect on the Ride between Koh Tao and Koh Phangan
Most boats from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan are fairly comfortable, I mean, face it, it’s a short trip. Seating is usually open, so get in line early if you want a good spot. Luggage is stored below or on racks at the back, and staff are pretty efficient at loading and unloading. Seas can get a bit choppy, especially during monsoon season (October to January), so bring motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to it. Otherwise, sit back and enjoy the views!
Popular Routes in Thailand
Want to know more about different forms of transport in Thailand? Our guide to Thailand transport is here. And here’s how to travel some of the popular routes around Thailand, your options, and how we did it.
- How to go from Phuket to Koh Yao Yai
- How to go from Bangkok to Pakse (Laos)
- Going from Langkawi (Malaysia) to Koh Lipe
- How to go from Koh Tao to Krabi
- How to go from Phuket to Koh Yao Noi
- Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi
- How to go from Bangkok to Koh Tao
- Koh Tao to Phuket
- How to go from Bangkok to Koh Lipe
- How to go from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
- Bangkok to Koh Kood and back
- How to go from Koh Lipe to Koh Mook
- Koh Lipe to Koh Lanta
- How to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- Phuket to Koh Lanta
- How to go from Koh Tao to Koh Samui
- Go from Bangkok to Koh Chang
- How to go from Bangkok to Koh Samui
- How to go from Bangkok to Ayutthaya
- How to go from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
- How to go from Bangkok to Chiang Rai
- How to go from Bangkok to Sukhothai
- How to go from Krabi to Phuket
- How to go from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
- How to go from Krabi to Koh Samui
- Going from Krabi to Phi Phi Island
- How to go from Bangkok to Phi Phi Island
- How to go from Bangkok to Krabi
- How to go from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi
- How to travel from Krabi to Langkawi (Malaysia)
- How to go from Krabi to Railay
- How to go from Cambodia to Thailand
FAQs about Traveling from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
Got a question we didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments or send me an email — we’re always happy to help fellow travelers plan smooth journeys.
Can I buy boat tickets on the day of travel?
Yes, you can. Head to a local travel agent or directly to the pier at Mae Haad. That said, boats do sell out during Full Moon Party weeks and peak season (December to February and July to August), so booking ahead is a smart move. You can even book online on the day of travel, get your ticket here.
Are there evening or night boats?
Not usually. Most boats run between 07:00 and 17:00. If you’re arriving late on Koh Tao, plan to overnight and catch a morning boat the next day.
Is there a car ferry between Koh Tao and Koh Phangan?
Nope. If you’re traveling with a scooter or rental, you’ll need to return it before boarding.
Can I bring big luggage on board?
Yes, standard boat tickets include baggage. Oversized luggage might incur a small fee, but it’s rarely enforced unless you’re hauling something huge.
What happens if the weather’s bad?
Boats may be delayed or canceled during storms. If that happens, staff usually reschedule you on the next available trip or offer a refund.
Travel Tips for Exploring Thailand
- Get Travel Insurance: Civitatis includes medical expenses, repatriation, theft, luggage delays. No deductibles or upfront payments. Get a quote here.
- Get online immediately with an eSIM for Thailand
- Read our Thailand Transport Guide here.
- Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Thailand > discount coupon here
- Arriving by air? Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
- Book the best Thailand tours and guides on Klook or Get YourGuide
- Save money in Thailand with a Wise debit card
- Book Ferries, and Buses in Thailand with 12goAsia
- Book accommodation in Thailand with Booking
Final Words on Getting from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
Traveling from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is one of the easiest and most scenic hops in Thailand’s island circuit. With multiple boats running daily, affordable prices, and a short travel time, it’s a smooth transition whether you’re diving in Koh Tao or heading to Koh Phangan for yoga, beach vibes, or the famous Full Moon Party. Booking online or in person is straightforward, and as long as you arrive a little early and double-check your pier, you’re good to go. The ride itself is a chance to relax, soak in the views, and enjoy the warm breeze before your next adventure.
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