Although many travelers search for a “Bangkok to Koh Chang ferry,” there is actually no direct ferry from Bangkok to Koh Chang. Every journey involves traveling overland from Bangkok to Trat Province before boarding a short vehicle ferry to the island.
Understanding how the route works makes planning much easier, whether you are traveling independently, with family, or using a combined transfer service.
This guide explains the latest ferry schedules, routes, ticket prices, and practical travel tips to help you reach Koh Chang smoothly.
Is There a Direct Ferry from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
No. There is no direct passenger ferry or boat from Bangkok to Koh Chang.
Instead, the journey consists of two stages:
| Stage | Route | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Bangkok → Trat Province (bus, minibus, private transfer, or car) | 5–6 hours |
| Step 2 | Ao Thammachat Pier → Ao Sapparot Pier (Koh Chang) | 25–40 minutes |
Many transport companies sell combined bus or minibus and ferry tickets, allowing travelers to complete the journey with a single reservation. These packages usually include the ferry crossing and may also include hotel drop-off on Koh Chang.
Bangkok to Koh Chang Transportation Options
There are two common ways to travel from Bangkok.
Option 1: Combined Bus or Minibus + Ferry
This is the easiest and most popular option for most visitors.
Combined transfers typically include:
- Transportation from Bangkok
- Ferry ticket
- Transfer to Koh Chang
- Hotel drop-off (on selected services)
Typical schedule:
| Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|
| Around 8:00 AM | Around 2:00 PM |
Total travel time is approximately 6 hours, depending on Bangkok traffic, ferry waiting time, and hotel stops on the island.
This option is particularly convenient for first-time visitors because there is no need to arrange separate ferry tickets.
Option 2: Bus to Trat and Ferry Independently
Independent travelers can take a public bus from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Trat.
After arriving in Trat:
- Take a shared songthaew or taxi to Ao Thammachat Pier (approximately 20–30 minutes).
- Purchase a ferry ticket at the pier.
- Board the next available ferry to Koh Chang.
Although this requires one additional transfer, it provides greater flexibility in choosing departure times.
Koh Chang Ferry Route
As of 2026, the primary ferry route serving Koh Chang is:
| Mainland | Island |
|---|---|
| Ao Thammachat Pier | Ao Sapparot Pier |
This route accommodates:
- Walk-on passengers
- Cars
- Motorcycles
- Vans
- Buses
The crossing is short, reliable, and operates throughout the year.
Koh Chang Ferry Schedule
The Ao Thammachat–Ao Sapparot ferry operates daily.
| Ferry Information | Details |
|---|---|
| First ferry | Approximately 6:30 AM |
| Last recommended ferry | Approximately 6:30 PM |
| Frequency | Every 20–60 minutes |
| Crossing time | 25–40 minutes |
Although departures are officially scheduled hourly, additional sailings are often added during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist periods when demand increases.
To avoid unnecessary waiting, arriving at the pier at least 20–30 minutes before departure is recommended.
Ferry Ticket Prices
Standard ferry tickets are purchased directly at Ao Thammachat Pier.
Approximate 2026 fares:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult passenger | Around THB 80 (one way) |
| Children (approximately under 110 cm) | Often free |
| Private car | From THB 120 (vehicle only) |
Payment is generally made in cash at the ticket counter.
Advance reservations are usually not required for standard ferry crossings.
Important Ferry Update (2026)
Travelers should note that the former Centrepoint Pier (Cenferry) route remains suspended.
As a result, regular passenger and vehicle traffic now uses:
Ao Thammachat Pier ↔ Ao Sapparot Pier
If you encounter older travel information mentioning Centrepoint Pier, it is likely outdated.
Best Time to Leave Bangkok
Choosing the right departure time helps ensure a stress-free connection.
Combined Transfer
Most travelers choose departures around:
- 8:00 AM from central Bangkok
This typically allows arrival on Koh Chang in the early afternoon, well before the final ferry departure.
Some services also leave between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM, reaching Koh Chang before midday.
Independent Travelers
If traveling independently by public bus, aim to reach Ao Thammachat Pier by:
4:00–5:00 PM
This provides a comfortable buffer before the final ferry of the day.
Arriving significantly later could require spending the night on the mainland before crossing the following morning.
Ferry During High and Low Season
High Season (November–February)
Conditions are generally excellent.
Expect:
- Calm seas
- More ferry departures
- Higher passenger numbers
- Vehicle queues during weekends and holidays
For travelers with children or rental cars, early morning crossings between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM are usually the most convenient.
Rainy Season (June–October)
Ferries continue operating throughout the monsoon season.
However, travelers should allow additional time because:
- Weather may cause delays.
- Ferry frequency may occasionally be reduced.
- Waiting times can be longer during periods of rough sea conditions.
Planning extra time before the final ferry is advisable.
Travel Tips
Before traveling to Koh Chang, keep these practical tips in mind:
- There is no direct ferry from Bangkok.
- The ferry crossing takes only around 25–40 minutes.
- Combined bus and ferry tickets are the simplest option for most travelers.
- Independent travelers can easily connect via Trat.
- Ferry tickets usually do not require advance booking.
- During weekends and Thai public holidays, vehicle queues can become lengthy.
- Leave Bangkok early if traveling independently to avoid missing the final ferry.
- Cash is recommended when purchasing ferry tickets at the pier.
Sample Travel Timeline
| Time | Journey |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Depart Bangkok |
| 1:00 PM | Arrive at Ao Thammachat Pier |
| 1:30 PM | Ferry departs |
| 2:00 PM | Arrive at Ao Sapparot Pier |
| 2:15–3:00 PM | Transfer to hotel |
Actual travel times vary depending on traffic, ferry departures, and hotel location.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct ferry from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
No. All travelers must first travel by road to Trat Province before boarding the ferry from Ao Thammachat Pier to Ao Sapparot Pier.
2. How long does the journey from Bangkok to Koh Chang take?
The complete trip typically takes around 6–7 hours, depending on traffic, ferry waiting times, and your final destination on the island.
3. How long is the Koh Chang ferry ride?
The crossing between Ao Thammachat Pier and Ao Sapparot Pier usually takes 25–40 minutes.
4. How often do ferries operate?
Ferries generally depart every 20–60 minutes, with additional sailings during busy travel periods.
5. What time is the first ferry to Koh Chang?
The first ferry normally departs at approximately 6:30 AM.
6. What time is the last ferry?
The final reliable departure is typically around 6:30 PM. Travelers should avoid planning to arrive close to the last sailing.
7. How much is the ferry ticket?
Adult passengers typically pay around THB 80 for a one-way ticket. Vehicle charges start from approximately THB 120, excluding the driver.
8. Do I need to book the ferry in advance?
Usually not. Standard ferry tickets are purchased at the pier on the day of travel. During major holidays, arriving early is recommended.
9. Can I take a rental car to Koh Chang?
Yes. The Ao Thammachat ferry carries private cars, motorcycles, vans, and buses. Vehicle tickets are purchased at the pier.
10. Does the ferry operate during the rainy season?
Yes. The ferry runs year-round, although weather conditions may occasionally cause delays or slightly longer waiting times during the monsoon season.
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:
