How to Get from Surat Thani to Donsak
Plan your trip from Surat Thani to Donsak pier. Compare the express bus from about $4 and private transfers, with ferry times to Koh Samui.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Contents
For many travelers, Surat Thani is the gateway to the Gulf islands, but the journey does not end at the train station or the airport. To reach Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, you first cover the short stretch of road to Donsak, where the ferry piers sit. The road leads out of the mainland hub into the palm-fringed landscape of the coast.
The trip is short but essential. Whether you arrive on an overnight train or fly in from Bangkok, the choice comes down to the budget-friendly bus or a private transfer. Compare both on GoAsia.cc to find the one that fits your ferry and your budget.
Surat Thani to Donsak by Bus
The bus is the classic choice for backpackers and anyone watching their budget. Express buses run frequently through the day, with departures from about 06:00 to late afternoon. On booking platforms, tickets cost about $4 to $11 (October 2026), depending on the operator and the pickup point.[1]
Direct express buses can take from about 1 hour, while services with several pickups around Surat Thani town or the airport take longer, up to about 4 hours 30 minutes. The buses are air-conditioned, and the ride is often shared with fellow island-bound travelers swapping tips.[1]
Surat Thani to Donsak by Transfer
A private transfer gives you door-to-door service on your own schedule instead of a fixed timetable. It suits families, groups and anyone carrying diving gear who would rather skip the bus terminal. On booking platforms, prices range from about $40 to $127 per vehicle (October 2026), and the drive takes from about 1 hour, up to 2 hours 30 minutes depending on pickup point and traffic.[1]
Vehicle Classes and Comfort
Several classes of vehicle are available, so you can match the ride to your group:
- Economy and Comfort: Standard sedans for solo travelers or couples, with air conditioning and trunk space for standard luggage.
- SUV (4 passengers): A step up in size, ideal for small families or anyone who likes a higher seat.
- Van (9 and 10 passengers): The best value for groups, since the van price splits between everyone on board.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $4 - $11[1] | From 1h | Standard |
| Private Transfer | $40 - $127[1] | From 1h | High |
Tips for Traveling from Surat Thani to Donsak
- Know Your Pier: Donsak has separate piers for different ferry companies. Raja Ferry sails from Donsak to Lipa Noi on Koh Samui, while Seatran runs from its own port in Bang Nam Jued to Nathon.[2][3] Tell your driver or bus operator which one you need.
- Check the Ferry Times: Raja Ferry sails from Donsak to Koh Samui hourly from 05:00 to 19:00, and the crossing takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.[2]
- Book in Advance: Booking through GoAsia.cc reserves your seat, which helps in busy periods such as the run-up to the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan.
- Buffer Time: Allow at least an extra hour between your arrival at Donsak and your ferry. Traffic around Surat Thani can be unpredictable, and the piers can be busy at ticket counters.
- Water: Buses and private cars are air-conditioned, but the wait at the pier is not. Carry a bottle of water.
- Luggage: On the bus you lift your own bags. If you have very heavy luggage or limited mobility, the private transfer is worth the extra cost.
Timetable
| Bus Surat Thani - Donsak $ 4.43โ11.21 1h โ 4h 30m | |
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| Taxi Surat Thani - Donsak $ 39.54โ126.58 1h โ 2h 30m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Surat Thani to Donsak, including current prices and schedules.
The bus is the cheapest, with tickets from about $4 on booking platforms (October 2026). Express buses are frequent and reliable.
A private transfer or a direct express bus can do the trip in about 1 hour. A private transfer is more consistent because it makes no extra stops for other passengers.
The journey takes from about 1 hour, and a private transfer takes up to about 2 hours 30 minutes. Some bus services take up to about 4 hours 30 minutes, depending on the number of stops and the route.
Yes. Surat Thani Airport is in Phunphin, about 30 to 40 minutes by road from the city centre, and you can pre-book a private transfer to Donsak or take a bus or van.
Yes. Raja Ferry and Seatran sail from separate piers in Donsak, so check your ferry ticket and tell your driver which pier you need.
Yes. Private vans are available for up to 10 passengers, which is often the most comfortable and cost-effective way for a large group to travel together.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] 12Go: Surat Thani - Donsak timetable. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
- [2] Raja Ferry Port PLC: Sailing schedule. Retrieved October 21, 2026.
- [3] Seatran Discovery: About Seatran Discovery. Retrieved October 26, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.