Are you wondering how to get from Phuket to Koh Phangan?
You might be looking to trade the hustle and bustle of Phuket for the serene paradise of Koh Phangan, or maybe you’re looking to party it up at the world-renowned Full Moon Party.
Whatever the reason, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best mode of transportation for you by the end of this post. I’ll also throw in a few tips on what to do in Koh Phangan, given that it’s one of my favorite Thai Islands!
Traveling from Phuket to Koh Phangan requires careful consideration of your options for transportation. As there’s no airport on the island of Koh Phangan, you will need to consider your options.
This blog post will delve into three ways to get from Phuket to Koh Phangan, including the costs, duration, and comfort levels of each option.
Forms of Transport
You have a few options when going from Phuket to Koh Phangan, each with pros and cons.
The three options are:
- Flying from Phuket to Koh Samui and then taking a ferry to Koh Phangan
- Taking a bus from Phuket to Surat Thani and then a ferry to Koh Phangan
- Taking a taxi to Surat Thani and a ferry to Koh Phangan
Your decision will be influenced by things including your spending budget, travel preferences, and how much time you have. We’ll look at each option’s specifics in this post so you can choose for your trip with confidence.
Phuket to Koh Phangan: Plane + Ferry
- Flight time: 55min
- Ferry time: 30min -1hr 30min
- Cost: Flight $60- $105 USD
- Ferry Cost: $5-10 USD
Since Koh Phangan Island doesn’t have an airport, you will have to fly to Koh Samui which is the closest island to an airport.
Flying from Phuket to Koh Samui and catching a ferry to Koh Phangan is probably the easiest way for this journey.
Catching a flight from Phuket Airport to Koh Samui is straightforward with around 6 flights a day with Bangkok Airways, there will be a suitable time for you. It takes around 1 hour so you’ll be touching down in the paradise of Koh Samui before you know it.
The cost can vary depending on the season but varies between $60-105 USD for a one-way flight.
If you have time, I would highly recommend spending time in Koh Samui. Although it’s a hugely popular place for tourists, it’s also the third largest island in Thailand which has so much to discover.
But back to our trip, once you get to Koh Samui you will need to catch a ferry. If you book through 12go.asia, you can organize transport from the airport, directly to the ferry with guaranteed connections.
Overall, the journey from Koh Samui Airport to Koh Phangan will be about an hour and 15 minutes.
To save time, try and plan your flight time and ferry connection so there isn’t a long wait time in between. Also, be aware that you must check-in for your ferry journey at least 40 minutes prior so make sure you have factored that into your journey.
As mentioned, if you book directly with 12go, you will get guaranteed connections.
Regarding comfort, the flight from Phuket to Koh Samui is a relatively short and comfortable journey, with a choice of economy or business class seats.
Phuket to Koh Phangan by Bus + Ferry
- Bus Journey: 4-5 hours
- Ferry Journey: 7- 9 hours
- Cost: $40 USD
If you have plenty of time or a smaller budget, this is the option for you. You can catch a bus from either the Bust Terminal in Phuket or Phuket International Airport.
Several bus companies run services to Surat Thani, with some companies offering up to 9 services a day.
The journey takes around 4 and a half hours but can be longer if traffic is heavy. If you are on a schedule, make sure to factor in potential traffic delays.
Although the journey is long, you can truly see some stunning scenery along the way, from lush limestone cliffs to jungles and rivers, it’s certainly a journey to appreciate.
Costs for the journey vary, with a one-way bus ticket from Phuket to Surat Thani ranging from $7 to 15 USD, depending on the company and service type.
Upon arrival in Surat Thani, you’ll need to proceed to one of the ferry terminals on the coast. Companies like Lomprayah, Raja Ferry, and Songserm operate ferries between Surat Thani and Koh Phangan.
Comfort levels are relatively good, with air-conditioned buses and the option to choose between economy and VIP seats. Although the ferry ride can be basic, air-conditioned seating and comfortable lounges are available at an additional cost.
To make the most of your journey, I would advise booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak season as this method is the most popular. Check your departure and arrival times of your transportation options to avoid delays or missed connections.
Again, when you book with 12go, they guarantee your transfers which means that there is no way you can miss your ferry after the bus ride.
Phuket to Koh Phangan by Taxi + Ferry
- Taxi time: 2-4 Hours
- Ferry time: 4 hours approx
- Cost: From $90 USD
If you’re looking for a bit more luxury and privacy, you can choose to hire a taxi or private car to take you directly to the ferry pier in Surat Thani.
This is a convenient option for travelers who value comfort and convenience over public transportation. It means leaving at a time that suits you and not waiting around for other travelers.
But this convenience comes with a price tag. A one-way trip starts from $80 USD but can be more depending on the size of the vehicle and the distance to the pier.
Once you reach the ferry pier, you can purchase a ticket for the ferry to Koh Phangan. Lomprayah, Raja Ferry, and Seatran Discovery are some of the companies that operate ferries between the mainland and Koh Phangan.
It can take between 2 to 4 hours to reach Koh Phangan by ferry, depending on the type of service and company.
Depending on the operator and type of service, the cost of the ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan ranges from $10 to 30 USD.
Hiring a taxi or private car offers a high level of comfort and convenience, with the ability to customize the journey to your preferences. The ferry ride can be basic, but some companies offer air-conditioned seating and comfortable lounges for an additional fee.
Some tips for travelers include agreeing on the fare with the driver beforehand and booking your ferry ticket in advance. Some taxi companies offer SUVs making it an ideal way for families or groups of friends.
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Conclusion
In summary, there are various routes available for traveling from Phuket to Koh Phangan, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
Opting for a flight from Phuket to Koh Samui, followed by a ferry ride to Koh Phangan, is the quickest choice, requiring around 2 to 3 hours of travel time. The average cost is between $70 to 120 USD.
Selecting a bus ride from Phuket to Surat Thani, followed by a ferry ride to Koh Phangan, is the least expensive route, with a one-way fare of about $20 to 40 USD. However, the entire trip can take from 8 to 12 hours.
Hiring a taxi or private car is the most practical option for those who prioritize comfort and convenience, with the possibility of customizing the journey to fit their preferences. The fare for this option ranges from $80 to 120 USD, depending on the distance to the ferry pier.
The decision on which mode of transport to take will be based on the individual’s budget, travel style, and available time.
Those looking for a fast and easy trip and are willing to spend more money should consider taking a flight and ferry ride. Those with budget constraints should opt for a bus and ferry ride, while those who value comfort and convenience would benefit from hiring a taxi or private car.
Make sure to check 12Go where you can check schedules and book any tickets for your travel. If you travel during peak season or are heading to the Full Moon Party, I would advise booking tickets in advance.
About Phuket and Koh Phangan
Here is some information about both Phuket and Koh Phangan that can help prepare you and give you ideas for your trip.
The gorgeous island province of Phuket, which is located in southern Thailand, is well-known for its magnificent beaches, exciting nightlife, and extensive cultural history. Every year, millions of tourists visit this well-liked location to take advantage of its breathtaking coastlines, warm climate, and delectable cuisine.
The impressive Big Buddha monument, Phuket Old Town, the lovely Kata and Karon beaches, and the lively Patong Beach region are some of the most popular Things to Do in Phuket.
The Similan Islands, Racha Yai, and Phi Phi Islands are just a few of Phuket’s world-class diving and snorkeling locations.
Phuket is the ideal location for a tropical holiday because it has something to offer everyone, whether you are looking for some tranquility or exciting activities.
Koh Phangan is a breathtaking island located in the Gulf of Thailand, recognized for its stunning natural beauty, serene beaches, and thriving party culture. The island is a favorite destination among tourists worldwide who seek to relish its tropical climate, clear waters, and relaxing ambiance.
Some of the Best Things to Do in Koh Phangan include the exquisite Thong Nai Pan and Haad Rin beaches, the picturesque Than Sadet and Phaeng waterfalls, and the lively night markets of Thongsala.
Additionally, Koh Phangan is well-known for its monthly full moon parties on Haad Rin Beach, which are quite the spectacle.
Whether you’re searching for tranquility, adventure, or a bustling nightlife scene, Koh Phangan caters to everyone’s needs, making it the ideal destination for those seeking a tropical vacation.
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FAQ Phuket to Koh Phangan
The duration of the journey depends on what ferry you get. A ferry from Koh Samui takes around 1 hr 15, while a ferry from Surat Thani can take around 4 hours.
As you have to get a bus, plane, or taxi from Phuket to a ferry, the total cost will depend on which option. The ferry journey alone can cost between $10 and 30 USD.
The easiest way to Koh Phangan is to fly to Surat Thani and it’s just a short ferry journey from there.
Koh Phangan is absolutely worth a visit. You can enjoy a tropical escape to its beautiful beaches and enjoy the authentic culture.
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