People travel between Phuket and Koh Phangan for various reasons, including exploring the stunning beaches, experiencing vibrant nightlife, attending the famous Full Moon Party, or simply seeking relaxation in the tropical paradise of Thailand. There are several options for routes between these two destinations. One popular choice is by ferry, which offers scenic views of the Andaman Sea and typically takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the ferry company and route. Another option is to take a combination of bus and ferry, which might take a bit longer but can be more budget-friendly. Additionally, some travelers opt for domestic flights from Phuket to Koh Samui, followed by a ferry to Koh Phangan, which can significantly reduce travel time but may be a bit more expensive. Each option provides its own unique experience, catering to the preferences and priorities of travelers.
Phuket To Koh Phangan by air (via koh Samui)
The easiest, shortest but most expensive option is to fly from Phuket to Koh Samui (the closest island to Koh Phangan) and then a ferry to Koh Phangan.
The flight duration is about one hour and there are about five flights a day in each direction.
When you buy a ticket from a travel agent you can buy it with Koh Phangan as the end destination and so the transfer and ferry over will all be arranged and sorted.
If not then you can arrange a taxi from Samui airport to then get a ferry to Phangan which takes roughly 30 minutes.
Flights from Phuket to Koh Samui range from 3000 - 10,000 Baht one way
The earlier you book the cheaper it will be.
The closest ferry company pier from Koh Samui airport is Seatran, this ferry brings you to the main port of Koh Phangan, Thong Sala. All other ferry companies also bring you into Thong Sala apart from the Haad Rin Queen boat which takes you to Haad Rin. All locations on the island are easily accessible from Thong Sala and for Haad Rin just 15 minutes more.
Phuket To Koh Phangan by air (via Surat Thani)
Flying to the closest airport on the mainland, Surat Thani is not as cheap as traveling by land but still cheaper than flying to Koh Samui.
From Surat Thani airport you will then get a taxi/minibus transfer to the closest pier (Donsak) to get the ferry to Phangan which takes roughly 2.5 hours.
Flights from Phuket to Koh Samui range from 2000 - 8000 Baht one way
The earlier you book the cheaper it will be.
Phuket To Koh Phangan by Bus
Traveling by bus is the cheapest option. The pick-up point in Phuket is at the Central bus station in Phuket Town. It is recommended to check which ferry company is included.
The full journey will take about 9 - 10 hours.
There is an option to purchase a ticket all the way to Koh Phangan at the bus station office so that all connections are included however you may have to spend some time waiting in Surat Thani to change buses.
There are vans that usually make pick-up from the more popular areas in Phuket such as Patong, and drive you to to central station in Phuket Town (about 30-50 minutes).
Bus travel including ferry from Phuket to Koh Phangan ranges from 500 - 2500 Baht.