Ferries from Koh Samui dock at Mae Haad Pier, the main arrival point on Koh Tao's western coast. Understanding the pier's layout and daily rhythm helps you move efficiently toward accommodations or onward boat connections. This guide covers what happens between stepping off the ferry and leaving the pier area.
Quick answer
All ferries from Koh Samui arrive at Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao's primary landing facility on the island's west shore. The pier operates daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with most arrivals concentrated between mid-morning and early afternoon. Onward longtail connections to Koh Nang Yuan depart from the same pier complex, requiring a separate 250 THB conservation fee per person.
Mae Haad Pier handles every commercial ferry arrival on Koh Tao, including all services originating from Koh Samui. The pier extends roughly 80 meters into a shallow bay flanked by dive shops, travel agencies, and a cluster of budget guesthouses that begin less than 50 meters inland. During peak season—November through March—the wooden walkway sees upward of 600 passengers per day across four to six scheduled arrivals. The koh samui to koh tao ferry pier operates within a tightly defined window: gates open at 10:00, and the last departure for Koh Nang Yuan leaves by 17:00. Arriving passengers disembark onto a single platform shared with outbound travelers, creating brief congestion when a departure and arrival overlap. Porters offering taxi and motorbike-taxi services position themselves at the pier's landward end; fixed-rate songthaew trucks to the island's eastern beaches depart from a dirt lot 30 meters north of the ticket booths. Koh Nang Yuan sits 600 meters northwest of Mae Haad, visible from the pier on clear mornings. Longtail operators run a continuous shuttle service during the 10:00–17:00 window, with the last return boat leaving Nang Yuan at 16:30 to honor the island's daily closure. The 250 THB fee covers both the boat transfer and the mandatory conservation charge levied by the island's private leaseholder. Payment is cash-only, collected at a dedicated kiosk on the pier's south side before boarding. Ferry connections from Samui align with the pier's operating hours, but scheduling depends on sea conditions and seasonal demand. High-speed catamarans complete the crossing in 90 minutes, while slower car ferries take closer to two and a half hours. Most services depart Samui's Bangrak or Maenam piers between 08:00 and 14:30, ensuring arrivals fall within Mae Haad's active hours. Travelers continuing to Nang Yuan should target the earliest available ferry from Samui to allow a comfortable transfer window and avoid the midday heat on the longtail crossing.
“Mae Haad's single platform handles both arrivals and departures, creating brief but predictable congestion when services overlap.”
Ferries to Koh Tao depart from several piers in Koh Samui, primarily located on the northern coast. Travelers typically reach these terminals via private transfer or local taxi services.
Direct transit from Koh Samui accommodation to Maenam Pier
Direct transit from Koh Samui accommodation to Pralarn Pier
Ferry transit from Koh Samui pier to Koh Tao (Mae Haad Pier)
Confirm your specific departure pier with your operator in advance, as ferry locations in Koh Samui vary by company. Arriving at the pier 45 minutes before your scheduled departure ensures sufficient time for check-in procedures.
Koh Nang Yuan operates on a consistent daily schedule, welcoming visitors throughout the week. Plan your transit from the ferry pier accordingly to align with these set hours.
Visitors arriving at the Koh Tao ferry pier often continue their journey to the adjacent Koh Nang Yuan. This small island cluster is a logical extension for those already traversing the Gulf of Thailand.
15 min boat ride
This private island trio is connected by a sandbar, providing a distinct geographic contrast to the main island of Koh Tao.
5 min drive
Located near the primary ferry arrival points, this beach serves as the central hub for local dining and island activity.
20 min drive
A short transit across the island offers a panoramic perspective of the coastline visible during your ferry approach.
Everything you need to know about koh samui to koh tao ferry pier
Travelers typically depart from designated piers in Koh Samui such as Maenam or Bangrak. You should confirm your specific departure point when securing your boat passage to ensure a smooth transition to your koh samui to koh tao ferry pier transit point. Public taxis and private shuttles are common methods for reaching these departure hubs across the island.
Yes, visitors must pay a 250 THB conservation fee per person upon arrival. This fee supports the preservation of the marine environment surrounding Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. Please ensure you have cash available for this payment when landing at the koh samui to koh tao ferry pier or final island destination.
The best arrival window is between 10:00 and 12:00 to avoid midday crowds and the most intense afternoon heat. Planning your schedule to land during this period ensures a more comfortable visit to the island. Following this window helps you maintain a relaxed pace while exploring the scenic landmarks.
You can arrange your water transport logistics through our integrated booking widget to secure your journey to the koh samui to koh tao ferry pier. While we provide the scheduling information, actual ticketing is managed by verified local operators. We recommend finalizing your plans early to guarantee a seat during peak seasonal travel dates.
Local longtail boat operators provide regular services from the main island of Koh Tao to the nearby sandbar of Koh Nang Yuan. These short transit trips are easily coordinated once you complete your sea crossing. Ensure you agree on a return time with your boat captain before heading to the shore.
Koh Nang Yuan is open daily from 10:00–17:00. These hours apply throughout the week, including weekends and public holidays. Please plan your visit to fall within these operational times to ensure site access.
It is advisable to carry sun protection, plenty of water, and comfortable footwear for walking across the sandy terrain. Keep your travel documents and booking confirmations accessible for your arrival at the koh samui to koh tao ferry pier. Preparing these essentials helps streamline your transit and allows for a better overall experience.