Traveling from Koh Mak (เกาะหมาก / Ko Mak) to Bangkok (กรุงเทพฯ / Krung Thep) can be done in several ways, each balancing speed, cost, and convenience differently. Whether you value the fastest route, the most affordable option, or a comfortable balance of both, this guide compares the main travel methods to help you decide.
1. Ferry + Van or Bus (Most Popular Option)
- Route: Koh Mak → Mainland pier (Laem Sok or Laem Ngop) → Bangkok
- Travel Time: 6–8 hours
- Cost: THB 750–1,600
- Departures: Several daily connections
How it works:
- Take a speedboat or high-speed ferry from Koh Mak (45–60 minutes) to the mainland pier.
- Transfer to a shared van or bus bound for Bangkok, usually arriving at Khao San Road, Mochit Bus Terminal, or Ekkamai.
Why choose this option?
This combination is the most popular among travelers as it offers a balance of speed, cost, and convenience. Travel agents and pier offices can arrange through-tickets, simplifying the journey.
2. Flight + Ferry + Transfer (Fastest Option)
- Route: Koh Mak → Trat Airport → Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi)
- Travel Time: 4–5 hours (depending on connections)
- Cost: THB 2,900–7,500
- Airline: Bangkok Airways (exclusive operator from Trat to Bangkok)
How it works:
- Travel from Koh Mak to the mainland pier by ferry (45–60 minutes).
- Transfer by taxi or arranged car (approx. 30 minutes) to Trat Airport.
- Fly directly to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (flight time: about 1 hour).
Why choose this option?
This is the fastest way to Bangkok, ideal for travelers short on time or catching international flights. The higher price reflects the convenience and time saved.
3. Direct Bus + Ferry (Budget Option)
- Route: Koh Mak → Mainland pier → Bangkok (combined ticket)
- Travel Time: 7–8 hours
- Cost: THB 1,050–1,550
How it works:
Some operators offer combined ferry and bus tickets directly from Koh Mak to Bangkok. After arriving at the mainland pier, you connect straight onto the bus without needing separate bookings.
Why choose this option?
This is often the cheapest choice for budget-conscious travelers. While slightly slower than the van option, it provides a straightforward and economical route.
Travel Time and Cost Comparison
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (THB) | Route Summary | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry + Van/Bus | 6–8 hours | 750–1,600 | Koh Mak → Laem Sok/Ngop → Bangkok | Balanced choice (most popular) |
| Flight + Ferry + Transfer | 4–5 hours | 2,900–7,500 | Koh Mak → Trat Airport → Bangkok (flight) | Fastest, most convenient |
| Direct Bus + Ferry | 7–8 hours | 1,050–1,550 | Koh Mak → Mainland → Bangkok | Cheapest option |
Key Travel Notes
- Ferries/Speedboats: Koh Mak to mainland takes 45–60 minutes.
- Bus/Van Journey: Mainland to Bangkok is 6–7 hours.
- Flights: Only Bangkok Airways operates between Trat (TDX) and Bangkok (BKK).
- Booking: Tickets can be arranged online, at the pier, or via local travel agents.
FAQs: Koh Mak to Bangkok Transport
- What is the fastest way to travel from Koh Mak to Bangkok?
- Taking a ferry to Trat Airport and flying to Bangkok is the fastest option, with a total journey time of 4–5 hours.
- What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Mak to Bangkok?
- The direct bus and ferry combination is usually the most affordable, starting from around THB 1,050.
- How long does the ferry from Koh Mak to the mainland take?
- Speedboats typically take 45–60 minutes, depending on sea conditions.
- Which pier do ferries from Koh Mak use?
- Most ferries and speedboats arrive at Laem Sok Pier, with some services to Laem Ngop Pier.
- How long is the bus or van ride from Trat to Bangkok?
- The journey from the pier to Bangkok generally takes 6–7 hours.
- Are there night buses from Koh Mak to Bangkok?
- Most departures are during the day. Evening and night options are limited, so check schedules in advance.
- Do I need to book tickets in advance?
- Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, or peak travel seasons (December–April).
- Can I fly directly from Koh Mak to Bangkok?
- No. You must first travel by ferry to the mainland and then transfer to Trat Airport for the flight.
- Which Bangkok terminals do buses and vans arrive at?
- Common arrival points include Khao San Road, Mochit Bus Terminal, and Ekkamai Bus Station.
- Is the journey from Koh Mak to Bangkok suitable for families with children?
- Yes. Both the ferry + van option and the flight option are family-friendly. Families often prefer the flight for its shorter duration.
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: