So you have booked your vacation to the beautiful tropical island of Koh Samui and you have decided to travel by road and sea rather than flying from Bangkok. This blog post explains the process of traveling by ferry over from the Thai mainland on the ferry from Donsak Pier over to Koh Samui.
Arriving at Donsak Pier
For many travelers heading to Koh Samui by land and sea, the ferry crossing from Donsak Pier in Surat Thani province is a familiar and essential part of the journey. While flying directly into Koh Samui is an option, the ferry route remains popular thanks to its affordability, flexibility and straightforward logistics. Whether you are arriving from Bangkok, Phuket or elsewhere in southern Thailand, understanding the ferry process makes the journey smoother and far more enjoyable.
Donsak Pier is the main departure point for the ferries to Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan. Donsak Pier is located around 60 kilometers from Surat Thani town and is easily accessible for travelers to Koh Samui. Most travelers arrive by bus, minivan or private transfer, often as part of a combined ticket purchased in advance. If you are driving yourself, the pier is clearly signposted and has ample parking for both short and long stays. Find Donsak Pier on Google Maps.
Upon arrival, the area can feel busy, especially during peak travel periods or holiday weekends. However, the process is well organized, with staff, Thai and English speaking, on hand to direct vehicles and passengers to the correct ferry company. The two main operators servicing Koh Samui are Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry, both of which offer frequent sailings throughout the day.
I purchased my ferry ticket eight days in advance of my trip to Koh Samui. I scheduled my departure from Donsak Pier for 4PM since I was driving from Hua Hin. I arrived around 2:40PM hoping to be able to take an earlier ferry but the lady at the ticket office directed me to return around 3:30PM when I would be able to make use of my prepaid ticket for the ferry.
Buying Ferry Tickets
I recommend buying ferry tickets in advance of your travels to Koh Samui. That way you can guarantee your place on the ferry. Buying a return ticket is possible at the time that you purchase your tickets, saving you time on your Koh Samui vacation. Otherwise, buying tickets at Donsak Pier is straightforward. If you have not already booked online, you can buy tickets directly at the ferry counters near the entrance. Prices vary slightly depending on the operator and whether you are traveling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle. Buy your tickets between Donsak Pier and Koh Samui by clicking in the box below.
For foot passengers, tickets are inexpensive and usually include access to seating areas onboard. If you are bringing a car or motorbike, you will need to purchase a vehicle ticket separately and arrive earlier, as vehicle slots are limited and fill up quickly during busy periods. Staff will guide you through the process and direct you to the appropriate boarding lanes. My ferry ticket to and from Koh Samui, including my car, cost THB 1,512.
It is advisable to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes before departure for foot passengers and earlier for vehicles, particularly during weekends or high season. I, however, arrived around 3:30PM for my 4PM departure as directed by the lady at the ticket office when I went too early upon first arriving to Donsak Pier.
The Boarding Process
Once tickets are purchased, passengers are directed to the waiting area. Boarding usually begins around 30 minutes before departure and is conducted in an orderly manner. Foot passengers board first, followed by vehicles which are carefully guided onto the ferry by staff. Once the lady at the ticket counter had checked my ticket and issued me with a ‘boarding pass’, she directed me to the line of cars waiting to board the ferry, and I waited in line for about 20 minutes before I could drive my car onto the ferry.
Vehicle boarding is surprisingly efficient. Cars and motorbikes are lined up in designated lanes and loaded with precision to ensure balance and safety. Drivers are instructed when to enter the ferry and where to park. Once parked, passengers are asked to leave their vehicles and head upstairs to the passenger decks.
Foot passengers walk aboard via ramps and are free to choose seating once inside. Once their cars are parked, vehicle passengers climb the stairs from the parking deck onto the passenger deck from where they can wander around taking photos or take a seat in the seating areas.
The Onboard Experience
The ferry crossing between Donsak Pier and Koh Samui takes about 90 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Ferries are large, stable and well equipped, making the journey comfortable even for those prone to seasickness.
Passenger decks typically include indoor seating with air conditioning as well as outdoor areas where travelers can enjoy sea views and fresh air. Basic snacks, drinks and restrooms are available onboard, though offerings are simple rather than luxurious.
The crossing itself is calm and scenic, especially if you travel towards the late afternoon when the sun is starting to set. As the Thai mainland fades into the distance, views of the Gulf of Thailand open up and the first sight of Koh Samui’s green hills is often a highlight of the journey. You will also pass many other ferries coming from the opposite direction.
Arriving on Koh Samui
Ferries arrive at Nathon Pier, the island’s main ferry terminal located on the west coast. Disembarkation is efficient, with foot passengers exiting first followed by vehicles. Porters are available to assist with luggage if needed.
Once off the ferry, transportation options are plentiful. Songthaews, taxis and private transfers are readily available and can take you to popular areas such as Chaweng, Lamai or Bophut. If you are driving your own vehicle, exiting the port and navigating the island is straightforward, with clear road signage leading to all major destinations. It took me just on an hour to drive from Nathon Pier to Buri Rasa Resort Koh Samui where I stayed for the 10 days that I visited Koh Samui.
The Return Journey to Donsak Pier
The return crossing from Koh Samui to Donsak Pier follows the same process in reverse. Tickets can be purchased at ferry offices near Nathon Pier or booked in advance through your hotel or travel agent. Arriving early is again recommended, particularly if you are traveling by vehicle or catching a connecting bus or flight on the mainland. Find Nathon Pier on Google Maps.
Boarding is well managed and ferries generally run on schedule, though weather conditions can occasionally cause delays during monsoon season.
Final Thoughts
The ferry crossing between Donsak Pier and Koh Samui is a reliable and well-organized gateway to one of Thailand’s most popular islands. While it may not be the fastest option, it offers excellent value, a relaxed pace and a scenic introduction to island life. With a little planning and an understanding of the process, the journey becomes a smooth and enjoyable part of the overall travel experience rather than just a means of getting from one place to another.
For many travelers, stepping off the ferry at Koh Samui marks the true beginning of their island adventure. I found the process smooth and efficient and really enjoyed the cruise over to Koh Samui, which allowed plenty of time for relaxation and wandering around the decks taking photos and chatting to fellow travelers.
After your vacation to Koh Samui perhaps you would like to consider a vacation to Koh Chang? If so, then consider reading our blog post about getting to the island on the ferry to Koh Chang.
When I visited Koh Samui, I stayed at the quite lovely Buri Rasa Resort Koh Samui. Consider booking your accommodation at Buri Rasa, otherwise consider other accommodation options along Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui by clicking in the box below.
Consider reading other posts on Thailand by Two Passports Packed.
(Visited in October 2025)