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Koh Tao is a small island north of Koh Phangan, in the Gulf of Thailand. It's a famously cheap place to learn to scuba dive, and the reefs draw divers all year. The ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao costs $11 (376 THB) and takes 1-2h. It's a direct crossing, so there's nothing to change along the way.
Distance from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are about 44 km (27 miles) apart; the sea crossing itself covers around 60 km over water. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 1h and 2h.
How to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
The ferry is the only suitable way for travellers to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao. The journey takes around 1h, and ticket prices start from $11 (376 THB).
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Koh Phangan to Koh Tao by Ferry
There are two companies that operate trips from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao: Lomprayah and Songserm. These companies offer rides by speedboat or catamaran that will take you to the island in just 1-2h.
Seatran Discovery and Songserm ferry companies used to have 2-hour trips for much cheaper prices for this route but their schedule is not yet updated since the pandemic (last check May 2022).
We give you an overview below to serve as a reference when booking your ferry ride.
Departure and arrival stations
All ferries depart from the Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan. This pier is located in Ban Tai, on the east side of Koh Phangan.
All ferries heading to Koh Tao arrive at Mae Haad Pier on the east coast, close to many accommodations.
Ferry schedule from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Booking Tip
There are only a couple of trips per day, so be sure be book early.
If you require a transfer to and from any of the piers, you can ask your hotel for assistance.
Our favourite places to stay in Koh Tao
Here are our favourite places to stay in Koh Tao for every budget.
BudgetThe Stamp Hotel
Located not far from Sairee Beach. The Stamp Hotel is simple, clean and provides everything you could need for a comfortable stay. The staff are the star of this hotel, helping you with recommendations and hiring scooters.
All rooms come with a patio or balcony for you to sit back and immerse yourself in the nature that surrounds the hotel. This is a great budget option in Koh Tao!
- Super clean rooms
- Amazing staff
- Good location
- Great value for money
Private rooms start from $24 per night.
Mid-RangeBudchui Village2
Budchui Village2 is located just 500m from Sairee Beach and offers a beautiful swimming pool. The stunning mountain views, lush greenery and tranquillity will make for a perfect escape from the busy streets of Koh Tao.
Staff are very helpful and will assist in booking tours, onward travel plans and renting motorcycles or bicycles.
- Swimming pool
- Close to the beach
- Stunning mountain views
- Friendly and helpful staff
Private room starts at $31 per night.
Mid-RangeThe Dearly Koh Tao Hostel
Located in the Chalok Baan Kao area this hostel is surrounded by nature, lush scenery and tranquillity. The hostel has a large outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, a bar and a great rooftop terrace for guests to soak in all the sights.
There is also a common area for socializing with a TV, books and a shared computer. Thinking about getting your PADI in Koh Tao, the hostel is also a dive centre. The rooms are spacious and clean with private balconies.
- Swimming pool
- Dive centre
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Extremely clean
Private room starts at $36 per night.
Treat YourselfView Point Resort
View Point Resort is one of the best places to stay in the whole of Koh Tao. The views are exceptional, the rooms are perfectly designed for an island getaway and they even have a private beach area.
The lagoon-style swimming pool overlooks the sea below, or opt for one of the stunning villas which have their own private swimming pool. Life cannot get much better than this!
- Beautiful swimming pools
- Exceptional views
- Private beach
- Delicious complimentary breakfast
Villas start from $86 per night.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Koh Tao?
Koh Tao is also a popular diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand. Known as one of the cheapest locations in the world to get your PADI license, the island offers beautiful underwater scenery with gorgeous coral gardens and tons of fish.
It may be just 1/10 the size of its neighbour Koh Samui, but that doesn’t mean there is less to see in Koh Tao. Here, you’ll find beautiful bays, beaches and viewpoints — all just a motorbike ride away. And the best part? You can enjoy all these at a more laidback and slow pace.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao, roughly 44 kilometres (27 miles) apart. The cheapest fare is $11 (376 THB). The quickest trip takes 1h.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
The distance from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is 44 kilometres (27 miles).
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 376 THB.
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Travel Writer
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.
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Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Gecko Routes free and up to date.
Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
