Koh Chang and Koh Kood are two of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, and traveling between them is relatively simple during the tourist season. Daily ferry services connect Bang Bao Pier on Koh Chang with Ao Salad Pier on Koh Kood, allowing travelers to move between the islands in as little as 1.5 to 2 hours.
This guide covers ferry operators, schedules, travel times, ticket prices, seasonal considerations, and practical tips to help you plan a smooth journey.
Overview: Traveling from Koh Chang to Koh Kood
The most common way to travel from Koh Chang to Koh Kood is by high-speed ferry or catamaran. These services operate primarily during the dry season and provide the fastest and most comfortable connection between the islands.
Route:
- Departure: Bang Bao Pier, Koh Chang
- Arrival: Ao Salad Pier, Koh Kood
- Travel Time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
- Ferry Frequency: Daily during the high season
During the low season, schedules may be reduced depending on weather and sea conditions.
Ferry Operators
Several operators serve the Koh Chang–Koh Kood route throughout the year, particularly during the peak travel season.
Boonsiri High Speed Ferries
Boonsiri operates modern high-speed catamarans designed for comfort and efficiency.
Highlights:
- Air-conditioned passenger cabins
- Reliable safety standards
- Organized transfer services
- Suitable for families and first-time visitors
Koh Kood Express
Koh Kood Express specializes in connections between islands in the Trat province.
Highlights:
- Fast catamaran services
- Convenient island-hopping options
- Frequent departures during peak season
Bang Bao Wooden Boat Services
Traditional wooden boats occasionally operate during the high season.
Highlights:
- More traditional local travel experience
- Slower journey compared with catamarans
- Limited schedules and seasonal operation
Most travelers choose high-speed ferries because they are faster, more comfortable, and operate more consistently.
Ferry Schedule, Travel Time, and Ticket Prices
The following table provides a general overview of ferry services.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| First Departure | Around 09:00 |
| Last Departure | Around 13:00–13:20 |
| High-Speed Ferry Duration | 1 hour 30 minutes–1 hour 45 minutes |
| Wooden Boat Duration | Around 2 hours |
| Typical One-Way Fare | THB 600–1,000 |
| Hotel Transfer Availability | Often included |
Schedules can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Always verify departure times shortly before travel.
Seasonal Considerations
Dry Season (November–April)
This is the most popular time to travel.
Advantages:
- More daily departures
- Calmer sea conditions
- Faster and more reliable crossings
- Better availability of transfer services
December through February is the busiest period, so booking ahead is recommended.
Green Season (May–October)
Travel remains possible, but ferry schedules may be reduced.
Potential challenges include:
- Rougher seas
- Weather-related delays
- Fewer daily departures
- Temporary service suspensions during storms
If traveling during the monsoon season, confirm your departure one or two days before travel.
Step-by-Step Journey from Koh Chang to Koh Kood
1. Hotel Pickup on Koh Chang
Many ferry tickets include shared hotel transfers.
Typical pickup times:
- 60–90 minutes before ferry departure
- Exact time depends on your hotel location
Travelers staying at White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach, Kai Bae Beach, or Lonely Beach are usually collected directly from their accommodation.
2. Check-In at Bang Bao Pier
Upon arrival at Bang Bao Pier:
- Check in at the ferry operator’s counter
- Receive boarding information
- Tag any large luggage
- Proceed to the boarding area
Arriving at least 30 minutes before departure is recommended.
3. Ferry Crossing
The journey across the Gulf of Thailand typically takes:
- 1.5–1.75 hours by high-speed ferry
- Approximately 2 hours by wooden boat
Sea conditions are generally calm during the dry season but may become rougher during the monsoon period.
4. Arrival at Ao Salad Pier
Most ferries arrive at Ao Salad Pier on the northern side of Koh Kood.
Upon arrival:
- Shared songthaews or pickup trucks meet passengers
- Transfers are often included with the ticket
- Travelers are transported directly to their resorts
This door-to-door system makes island hopping particularly convenient for first-time visitors.
Luggage Information
Most ferry operators allow:
- Up to 20 kg of checked luggage
- Two pieces of luggage per passenger
Oversized items such as diving equipment may incur additional charges.
Keep the following items with you during the crossing:
- Passport
- Mobile phone
- Camera
- Medication
- Valuables
Booking Tips
Book Early During Peak Season
Travel demand increases significantly between December and February. Booking several days in advance is recommended.
Choose Combined Transfer Tickets
Tickets that include hotel pickup and hotel drop-off provide the easiest travel experience and often represent good value.
Confirm Before Departure
Weather conditions can affect ferry operations, especially during the green season. Contact the operator or your accommodation before traveling.
Allow Extra Time for Connections
If connecting to another ferry or transportation service on the same day, leave sufficient buffer time in case of delays.
Is the Ferry from Koh Chang to Koh Kood Worth It?
For most travelers, the ferry is the quickest and most practical way to travel between Koh Chang and Koh Kood. High-speed catamarans provide a comfortable crossing, while integrated hotel transfers make the journey straightforward even for first-time visitors.
With travel times of less than two hours and fares generally ranging from THB 600–1,000, island hopping between these two destinations is both affordable and convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the ferry from Koh Chang to Koh Kood?
Most high-speed ferries take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Traditional wooden boats usually take around 2 hours.
2. Where do ferries depart from on Koh Chang?
Most services depart from Bang Bao Pier on the southwestern coast of Koh Chang.
3. Where do ferries arrive on Koh Kood?
Ferries typically arrive at Ao Salad Pier on the northern side of Koh Kood.
4. How much does a ferry ticket cost?
One-way tickets generally cost between THB 600 and THB 1,000, depending on the operator and whether transfers are included.
5. Are hotel transfers included?
Many ferry operators include hotel pickup and drop-off as part of the ticket price.
6. Can I travel between Koh Chang and Koh Kood during the rainy season?
Yes, but schedules may be reduced and weather-related cancellations can occur.
7. Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended during the peak season from December to February.
8. Which ferry operator is best?
Most travelers choose high-speed operators because they offer faster crossings, greater comfort, and more reliable schedules.
9. How early should I arrive at the pier?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure if traveling independently. Travelers using hotel transfers should follow the pickup schedule provided by the operator.
10. Can I bring large luggage on the ferry?
Yes. Most operators allow up to 20 kg of luggage, though oversized items may incur additional fees.
