Krabi To Koh Samui(Samui Island) by Bus and Ferry

Introduction

Thinking about traveling from Krabi to Koh Samui? This combined bus and ferry experience offers a convenient way to reach Thailand’s second-largest island without the hassle of flying. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking an affordable, often straightforward transfer, especially with the added perk of door-to-door hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport.

What we really like about this tour is how it simplifies your trip—no need to juggle multiple bookings or worry about transportation logistics. Plus, with multiple daily departures and a guaranteed seat, it’s flexible enough to fit different schedules. On the flip side, some reviews point out that the service can be a bit disorganized at times, and there are concerns about comfort on the smaller vans.

This experience is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a practical, all-in-one transfer with minimal fuss. Whether you’re heading straight to Koh Samui after your Krabi stay or just looking for an easy way to hop between these two hotspots, this tour offers a good balance of convenience and value.

Key Points

• Pre-booked tickets include both bus and ferry, making the journey seamless.
• Multiple departure times allow flexibility to match your travel plans.
• Hotel pickups are available in key locations, reducing logistical stress.
• Comfort levels vary; buses are air-conditioned but sometimes small or crowded.
• Review insights highlight a mix of positive experiences and some organizational hiccups.
• Overall value is good, especially considering the included door-to-door service.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting your adventure, the tour offers hotel pickup from several popular spots like Ao Nang, Ao Nam Mao, and Krabi Town. After a confirmed pickup time (which you’ll get via email), you’ll be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan or coach. While most travelers find this part of the trip relaxing, some reviewers have noted that the vans can be cramped, especially when loaded with luggage and multiple passengers.

The journey to the ferry terminal typically lasts about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops. One frequent point mentioned in reviews is the scenic drive through southern Thailand, which offers glimpses of local life and lush landscapes.

Once at the ferry terminal—most commonly Nathon Pier or Mae Nam Pier—you’ll switch to a high-speed catamaran. The boats are generally punctual, with many travelers praising the timeliness of the ferry service. The ferries are equipped with restrooms, which is a welcome feature given the length of the trip.

Transportation Experience

The bus portion is described as relaxing by some, especially if you’re traveling in a well-maintained, air-conditioned coach. However, reviews reveal that the mini vans used in some cases can be cramped — fitting one large bag per person, with a maximum of 20 kilograms luggage weight. Some passengers found the vans crowded, especially during peak times, which can be less comfortable if you’re used to more spacious transport.

On the ferry, travelers often appreciate the quick and smooth crossing. But a few reviewers mention that the seats in the sun on the deck could be more comfortable, and that the boat’s seats might need replacement.

Timing & Duration

The total journey time from Krabi to Koh Samui generally falls between 4 and 5 hours. The schedule is designed to be flexible, with departures from early morning until mid-afternoon, which means you can tailor your trip to your plans. Some travelers, however, experienced delays—be it due to traffic or issues with the ferry—that extended their travel.

Hotel Pickup & Drop-off Details

A key benefit is the door-to-door pickup service. You can be collected from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or Ao Nam Mao. The pickup times are confirmed after booking, and most reviews note that the timing is generally reliable.

For those staying in more remote areas, or at resorts like Centara Grand Beach Resort, alternative options such as hotel shuttle boats are suggested. Reviewers who followed these instructions report smooth pickups, although some noted initial skepticism about whether the pickup would happen as planned.

The Real Travelers’ Insights

Comfort and convenience are the main themes in reviews. Many travelers say the transportation is generally comfortable, with restroom facilities on the bus and ferry adding to the convenience. A notable quote from a traveler: “The vans, the bus, and boat were comfortable, which made the trip enjoyable as the scenery passed by.”

However, not all feedback is glowing. Organizational issues crop up in some reviews, with reports of poor communication, late pickups, or confusing check-in procedures. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that their pickup time was off by an hour, leading to unnecessary waiting.

Luggage handling can also cause some frustration. A few travelers found the space in the vans cramped, making it difficult to stretch or store large bags comfortably. Luggage restrictions are typically 20 kilograms per person, with an extra fee of 200 baht for any additional baggage.

Pricing & Value

At around $35.50 per person, this tour offers decent value given the convenience of combined bus and ferry tickets plus hotel pickup. While some reviews highlight that local prices might be slightly cheaper, the time saved and hassle-free booking often justify the premium.

One reviewer pointed out that prices on Viator are double the local rate, which is worth noting if you’re budget-conscious and comfortable paying directly on-site. For many, the peace of mind of pre-booking and guaranteed seat outweighs the slightly higher cost.

Pros and Cons from Real Experience

Pros:

• Convenient door-to-door hotel pickup reduces stress.
• Multiple departure times offer scheduling flexibility.
• Comfortable transportation with amenities like restrooms.
• Timely ferry crossings generally appreciated.
• Good overall value considering the seamless transition between transport modes.

Cons:

• Some vans and minibuses are cramped, especially with luggage.
• Occasional organizational hiccups, such as poor communication or delays.
• Limited comfort on the ferry deck for those who prefer shaded seating.
• Extra charges for luggage and additional transfers.
• Some travelers experienced poor customer service or confusing check-in procedures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This transfer service is best suited for budget travelers who value convenience and are comfortable with shared transportation. It is ideal if you prefer pre-arranged, door-to-door pickup and are okay with smaller, sometimes crowded vans. Those traveling with light luggage will find the process smoother, while travelers valuing seating comfort and space might want to consider alternatives or prepare for the cramped conditions.

It’s also a good choice for people who want a timely, no-fuss journey that gets them from Krabi to Koh Samui without the hassle of booking separate tickets or navigating multiple modes of transport. However, if you have more time or prefer a more luxurious experience, flying or private transfers might be worth considering.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, this Krabi to Koh Samui bus and ferry combo offers solid value for the right traveler. It’s a practical option for those who want to avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple transport legs and are happy with a more rustic, budget-friendly journey. The door-to-door service and multiple departure options make it a flexible choice, especially for travelers with tight schedules.

That said, the experience can vary—some find the vans cramped but appreciate the efficiency and cost savings, while others have faced organisational issues. If you’re someone who prioritizes comfort and smooth logistics, it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with some of the less polished aspects.

This tour is best for adventurous, budget-conscious travelers who are flexible and looking for a straightforward way to reach Koh Samui without flying. It’s a decent option if you’re willing to accept some minor inconveniences in exchange for cost savings and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door hotel pickup from several locations like Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and Ao Nam Mao, with pickup times confirmed after booking.

What is the total travel time from Krabi to Koh Samui?
The journey generally takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and ferry schedules.

Are there different departure times available?
Yes, you can choose from multiple departure options throughout the day, from early morning to afternoon, to match your schedule.

Is luggage storage an issue?
Luggage is limited to 20 kilograms per person, with fees applying for extra baggage. Some reviewers mention that space in the vans can be tight, so pack light if possible.

Are there amenities on the ferry?
Most ferries are equipped with restrooms, which travelers find helpful given the length of the crossing.

What should I do if my pickup is delayed or I face issues?
While most travelers report reliable pickups, some reviews mention poor communication. It’s advisable to keep contact details handy and confirm your pickup time in advance when possible.

Overall, this Krabi to Koh Samui transfer offers a cost-effective, practical option with a fair mix of comfort and convenience—perfect for travelers who value simplicity and affordability over luxury. Just be prepared for some variability in comfort and organization, and you’ll find this service a reliable way to reach the island.