How to Book a Ferry to the Thai Islands: Phi Phi, Samui, Phangan

How to Book

• For Peace of Mind & Advance Planning: Book online in advance through a reputable aggregator site like 12Go.asia, Direct Ferries, or the ferry company's own website.

• For Flexibility & Potential Savings: Book in person at travel agencies in Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket, or Surat Thani a day or two before you travel.

Step 1: Know Your Departure Points

Ferries don't run from Bangkok. You first need to get to the coastal gateway cities.

• To Koh Phi Phi:

  • Main Departure Points: Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier).

  • Also possible from: Koh Lanta, Railay.

• To Koh Samui & Koh Pha Ngan:

  • Option 1 (Fast Ferry): From Surat Thani (Donsak Pier) via companies like Lomprayah or Seatran.

  • Option 2 (Car Ferry): A slower, larger ferry from Surat Thani (Donsak Pier). Cheaper, less frequent.

  • Option 3 (Combo Bus+Boat): A popular, seamless option from Bangkok. You book a combined ticket that includes an overnight bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani and a connecting ferry to the islands.

Step 2: Choose Your Booking Method

Method 1: Booking Online (Recommended for Beginners)

This is the most straightforward method for tourists.

• Best Websites:

  • 12Go.asia: The most popular and reliable platform for transport in Asia. It compares different companies and times.

  • Direct Ferries: Another great aggregator site.

  • Ferry Company Websites: You can book directly with operators like Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, and Songserm.

• The Process:

  1. Go to a site like 12Go.asia.

  2. Enter your route (e.g., Phuket to Koh Phi Phi) and date.

  3. Compare ferry companies, departure times, and prices.

  4. Select your option and enter passenger details (full name as in passport).

  5. Pay by credit/debit card.

  6. You will receive a E-Ticket via email. Important: Either print this ticket or have a clear digital copy on your phone to show at the ferry company's check-in counter at the pier.

• Pros: Secure, easy to compare options, get confirmation instantly, peace of mind.

• Cons: Slightly higher fee than in-person agencies, less flexible if plans change.

Method 2: Booking In-Person at a Travel Agency

This is the traditional way and offers a chance to haggle, especially if booking multiple services (e.g., ferry + hotel).

• Where to Book: Travel agencies are everywhere in tourist areas like Khao San Road (Bangkok), Ao Nang (Krabi), and Patong (Phuket).

• The Process:

  1. Visit a few agencies to compare prices.

  2. Tell them your desired route and date.

  3. They will give you a paper ticket or voucher.

  4. Pay in cash (often gets a better price) or by card.

• Pros: Can be cheaper, opportunity to ask questions face-to-face, no need for advance planning.

• Cons: Requires time to shop around, risk of unreliable agencies (stick to ones that look busy and professional), prices can be inflated if they sense you're uninformed.

Step 3: At the Pier on Departure Day

1. Arrive Early: Get to the pier at least 60-90 minutes before departure. This gives you time to find the correct check-in counter, deal with queues, and board calmly.

2. Check-In: Find your ferry company's counter (e.g., Lomprayah, Seatran). Show your E-Ticket or paper ticket and passport. They will give you a boarding pass and often a sticker to wear indicating your destination.

3. Baggage: Your main luggage will be stored under the boat by the crew (usually for a small tip of 20-50 THB per bag). Keep your valuables, passport, and a jacket in a small daypack with you.

4. Boarding: Listen for announcements and follow the crowd. You may need to walk across other boats or a pontoon to reach yours.

Island-Specific Tips & Popular Routes

Essential Tips for a Smooth Ferry Ride

• Book Ahead During Peak Season: If traveling around Christmas, New Year, or Songkran (April), book weeks or even months in advance. Boats sell out.

• Seasickness: The Andaman Sea (Phuket/Phi Phi) can be rough from May to October. The Gulf of Thailand (Samui/Pha Ngan) is generally calmer. Come prepared with medication if you're prone to seasickness.

• Dress Appropriately: It can be windy and wet on deck, but the indoor cabin is air-conditioned and freezing. Wear layers and bring a sweater.

• Footwear: Wear shoes that are easy to take off, as you may need to remove them before boarding.

• Hydration and Snacks: Water is usually provided for free. You can buy snacks on board, but they are expensive. Bring your own.

In summary: For a hassle-free experience, use 12Go.asia to book your tickets a few days in advance. Arrive at the pier early, have your ticket and passport ready, and pack for changing conditions.

By following these steps, you'll be island-hopping like a pro, ready to enjoy the stunning beaches of Thailand.