Traveling between Krabi and Surat Thani is a common journey for travelers planning to connect the Andaman Coast with the Gulf of Thailand. While both towns are coastal hubs, there is no direct ferry service between Krabi and Surat Thani. Instead, the most practical and reliable way is by bus, with ferries only coming into play once travelers continue on from Surat Thani to nearby islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
This guide explains how to combine buses and ferries for an efficient and scenic journey, along with everything you need to know about schedules, fares, and facilities.
Bus Travel: Krabi to Surat Thani
The bus is the most straightforward way to cover the 157 km (98 miles) distance between Krabi and Surat Thani.
- Departure Point: Krabi Bus Terminal (located north of Krabi Town)
- Arrival Point: Talad Kaset Bus Station, Surat Thani Town
- Travel Time: 3–4.5 hours (depending on traffic and road conditions)
- Frequency: Multiple daily departures, approximately every 3–4 hours
- Fares: THB 250–600 depending on bus class and operator
- Facilities:
- Air-conditioning
- Reclining seats
- Luggage storage
- Some services provide complimentary bottled water or light snacks
This bus route is the most cost-effective and reliable way to travel directly between the two towns.
Ferry Travel Context: Surat Thani as a Gateway
Although there is no direct ferry route between Krabi and Surat Thani, ferries are central to journeys beyond Surat Thani. Once in Surat Thani, travelers have easy access to ferries bound for the Gulf of Thailand’s most popular islands:
- Koh Samui (via Donsak Pier, about 65 km from Surat Thani town)
- Koh Phangan (via Donsak Pier and other nearby piers)
- Koh Tao (via high-speed ferries, usually with stopovers in Koh Samui or Koh Phangan)
Ferry operators such as Raja Ferry and Lomprayah run regular schedules from Surat Thani piers. Travelers usually combine a bus or minivan ride from Surat Thani town to the pier, followed by the ferry ride to the island of choice.
Why Not Ferry from Krabi Directly?
While Krabi itself has ferry connections to Phi Phi Islands, Phuket, Koh Lanta, and other Andaman Coast destinations, there is no ferry service crossing the mainland to Surat Thani.
This means that travelers looking to move between the two provinces must rely on overland transportation—typically buses or minivans. The ferry comes into play only if continuing onwards from Surat Thani to the Gulf islands.
Suggested Itinerary: Krabi → Surat Thani → Islands
For those planning onward travel to the Gulf of Thailand:
- Bus from Krabi to Surat Thani
- Duration: 3–4.5 hours
- Fare: THB 250–600
- Transfer to Donsak Pier (Surat Thani)
- Duration: 1.5 hours by bus or minivan
- Ferry to the Gulf Islands
- Koh Samui: 1.5–2 hours
- Koh Phangan: 2–2.5 hours
- Koh Tao: 4–5 hours (via stopovers)
This combination makes Surat Thani a practical gateway city rather than a ferry port for Krabi-bound travelers.
Key Takeaways
- There is no direct ferry route between Krabi and Surat Thani.
- The most reliable connection is by bus (3–4.5 hours, THB 250–600).
- Surat Thani is mainly a ferry hub for reaching Gulf islands, not for mainland-to-mainland sea travel.
- Travelers seeking scenic routes can enjoy ferries, but only after reaching Surat Thani’s coastal piers.
FAQs: Krabi to Surat Thani via Bus and Ferry
1. Is there a direct ferry from Krabi to Surat Thani?
No. Travelers must take a bus or minivan. Ferries from Surat Thani serve the Gulf islands only.
2. How long is the bus journey from Krabi to Surat Thani?
Between 3 and 4.5 hours depending on traffic.
3. How much does a bus ticket cost?
Expect to pay between THB 250 and THB 600, depending on operator and bus class.
4. Where do buses depart in Krabi?
From the Krabi Bus Terminal, located north of Krabi Town.
5. Where do buses arrive in Surat Thani?
At Talad Kaset Bus Station, the main station in Surat Thani town.
6. Can I book a combined bus and ferry ticket from Krabi to Koh Samui or Koh Phangan?
Yes, many operators offer through-tickets that include the bus from Krabi, transfer to the pier, and the ferry to your chosen island.
7. Which Surat Thani pier serves Koh Samui ferries?
Most ferries depart from Donsak Pier, about 65 km east of Surat Thani town.
8. Is it better to take a minivan instead of a bus?
Minivans are slightly faster but can be less comfortable on long journeys. Buses generally provide more space and reliability.
9. What facilities are available on the bus?
Air-conditioning, reclining seats, and luggage storage are standard. Some services provide complimentary water or snacks.
10. Can I travel from Krabi to the Gulf islands in one day?
Yes. With an early bus from Krabi, it is possible to reach Koh Samui or Koh Phangan by late afternoon or evening.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: