Koh Chang Ferry Guide

Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand and is located in the Gulf of Thailand of the Trat Province, near the border with Cambodia. The island is one of the country's most popular toursit destinations, hailed for its pristine beaches, waterfalls, and dense rainforest. Koh Chang is a popular destination for travelers exploring Thailand's natural beauty and escaping crowds. Koh Chang has a laid-back and relaxed vibe, with dozens of cafes, restaurants and pubs. 

Koh Chang boasts stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Yet, despite its growing popularity, the island has managed to maintain its charm and character, and there are still plenty of unspoiled areas to explore. The island is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including monkeys, hornbills, and giant monitor lizards. It is also known for its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, as well as its waterfalls and hiking trails.

Visitors can choose to spend their days relaxing on the beach, taking part in water sports, exploring the island's nature trails, or simply enjoying the local cuisine and nightlife. With so much to see and do, Koh Chang is the perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in need of a peaceful getaway. We've listed the options in this guide and some other helpful information to help you get to Koh Chang in the most convenient way possible.

Best Time to Visit Koh Chang, Thailand

The dry season (between November and February) is the ideal time to visit Koh Chang. The weather during this period is generally mild, with temperatures ranging between 27 to 31 degrees Celsius. With lower humidity levels and less rainfall, the dry season is perfect for sightseeing, exploring the island's beaches, and hiking in the rainforest. Furthermore, the weather is dry and sunny and the island is less crowded, so you can enjoy its activities more quietly with fewer people.

Travellers should avoid planning a trip to Koh Chang during the rainy season between June and October. The island experiences heavy rainfall during this period, making exploring the island's natural beauty challenging. The seas can also become rough, complicating engaging in water sports and activities. However, the island's greenery is at its most vibrant during this season, so visitors who don't mind the occasional rain shower can still enjoy the island's lush forests and spectacular scenery.

How to Arrive at Koh Chang

Koh Chang is easily accessible from several popular destinations in Thailand, including Bangkok, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. Here are several of the best ways to get to Koh Chang:

From Bangkok

The most popular approach to getting to Koh Chang from Bangkok is to take a bus or taxi to the ferry pier in Trat and then take a ferry to Koh Chang. Buses from Bangkok to Trat are available daily and take 5-6 hours. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the bus station to the ferry pier, where you can book a ferry to Koh Chang.

From Pattaya

If you're coming from Pattaya, you can take a bus or taxi to the ferry pier in Trat and then take a ferry to Koh Chang. Buses from Pattaya to Trat are available daily and take 4-5 hours. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the bus station to the ferry pier, where you can book a ferry to Koh Chang.

From Koh Samui

If you're coming from Koh Samui, you can take a ferry to the mainland and then take a bus or taxi to the ferry pier in Trat. From there, you can catch a ferry to Koh Chang. Ferries from Koh Samui to the mainland are available daily and take about 4-5 hours. Then, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the ferry pier to the pier in Trat, where you can catch a ferry to Koh Chang.

Ferry Companies That Service Koh Chang

The journey time to Koh Chang varies depending on the departure point and the type of ferry. High-speed catamarans are the fastest and can take around 30 minutes to reach the island from Trat, while traditional ferries can take up to an hour. In addition, ferry companies typically offer multiple departures throughout the day, allowing travellers to choose a departure time that suits their schedule.

It's essential to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid any inconvenience or delays. Many ferry companies offer online booking options, making it easy to plan your travel. By researching the options and choosing a reliable ferry company, travellers can enjoy a hassle-free journey to Koh Chang and start their island vacation on the right note.

Several ferry companies operate to Koh Chang from the mainland. Here are some of the most popular ferry companies that service Koh Chang:

Centara Grand Koh Chang Ferry

Centara Grand Koh Chang Ferry is a well-known ferry company from the mainland to Koh Chang. The company has modern boats with air conditioning and comfortable seating. The ferries are fast and efficient; the journey takes about 30 minutes. Centara Grand Koh Chang Ferry also offers a transfer service from Trat Airport to the ferry pier, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Koh Chang Minibus

Koh Chang Minibus is a famous ferry company from Trat to Koh Chang. The company has modern boats with air conditioning and comfortable seating. The ferries are fast and efficient; the journey takes about 45 minutes. Koh Chang Minibus also offers a transfer service from Trat Airport to the ferry pier, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Ferry Suvarnabhumi Koh Chang

Ferry Suvarnabhumi Koh Chang is a famous ferry company that operates from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Koh Chang. The company has modern boats with air conditioning and comfortable seating. The ferries are fast and efficient; the journey takes about 5-6 hours. Ferry Suvarnabhumi Koh Chang also offers a transfer service from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the ferry pier, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Center Point Ferry

Center Point Ferry is a famous ferry company from Laem Ngop to Koh Chang. The company has modern boats with air conditioning and comfortable seating. The ferries are fast and efficient; the journey takes about 45 minutes. Center Point Ferry also offers a transfer service from Trat Airport to the ferry pier, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Koh Chang Ferries

Koh Chang Ferries is a ferry company that operates from the mainland to Koh Chang. The company has modern boats with air conditioning and comfortable seating. As a result, the ferries are fast and efficient, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Koh Chang Ferries also offers a transfer service from Trat Airport to the ferry pier, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Tips For Choosing the Most Suitable Ferry Company

Choosing the right ferry company is essential when travelling to Koh Chang, as it can significantly impact your travel experience. To make the right choice, here are some tips to consider:

Firstly, research is critical. Look for reviews and ratings of the ferry companies that service Koh Chang to get an idea of their reliability, punctuality, and quality of service. This will help you narrow your options and choose a reputable company.

Secondly, consider the type of ferry and the facilities offered. Some ferry companies offer high-speed catamarans that are faster and more comfortable than traditional ferries. Some companies also provide amenities like air conditioning, toilets, and refreshments onboard. Consider your trip's duration and comfort requirements when choosing a ferry company.

Lastly, compare the fares of different ferry companies to get the best deal. However, remember that the cheapest option may sometimes be the best choice, but not always. Look for a company that offers quality service and affordable fares. Considering these tips, you can choose the right ferry company that will make your trip to Koh Chang comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.

Koh Chang is 100% Worth Putting on Your Thailand Travel Itinerary

Koh Chang is a beautiful island that is well worth a visit if you're traveling in Thailand. Its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back vibe make it the perfect destination to relax and unwind. Getting to Koh Chang is easy, with several ferry companies operating from different destinations in Thailand.