Traveling from Koh Mak to Koh Kood is one of the easiest island-hopping journeys in Thailand’s eastern Gulf. The two islands are only about 26 km apart, making the trip quick, affordable, and convenient for first-time visitors.
Most travelers can reach Koh Kood in just 30–45 minutes by speedboat or catamaran, with several daily departures during the high season. Whether you are planning a relaxing beach holiday or continuing your island-hopping adventure, this guide explains everything you need to know, including ferry routes, departure points, schedules, fares, luggage, and seasonal travel tips.
Overview
Unlike long ferry journeys from the mainland, the Koh Mak to Koh Kood route is more like a short shuttle between neighboring islands. Boats operate daily during the tourist season, while services become less frequent during the rainy season.
At a glance:
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Koh Mak → Koh Kood |
| Distance | Approximately 26 km |
| Travel Time | 30–45 minutes |
| Boat Types | Speedboat, Catamaran, Wooden Boat |
| Typical Fare | THB 400–650 |
| High Season | November–April |
| Low Season | May–October |
Ferry Route and Departure Piers
Most ferry services follow the same route:
Departure
- Ao Nid Pier (Koh Mak’s main pier)
Arrival
- Ao Salad Pier (Koh Kood’s main passenger pier)
This is the primary connection between the two islands, and nearly all scheduled passenger boats operate along this route.
Because Koh Kood is relatively undeveloped, Ao Salad Pier serves as the main arrival point before travelers continue to their accommodation by shared transfer, taxi, or resort shuttle.
Ferry Operators
Several local ferry companies operate daily services between Koh Mak and Koh Kood.
Typical services include:
- Speedboats
- Catamarans
- Traditional wooden passenger boats
Speedboats are the most common option because they offer the fastest crossing, usually completing the journey in around 30 minutes.
Catamarans generally provide a smoother ride in moderate sea conditions, while wooden boats may operate less frequently and require slightly longer travel times.
Travel Time
Travel times vary depending on:
- Boat type
- Weather conditions
- Sea state
- Number of stops
Typical journey times are:
| Boat Type | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Speedboat | 30–35 minutes |
| Catamaran | 35–45 minutes |
| Wooden Boat | Around 45 minutes |
Delays may occur during rough weather, especially throughout the rainy season.
Ferry Ticket Prices
One-way tickets generally cost:
- THB 400–650 per person
Prices vary depending on:
- Boat operator
- Boat type
- Included hotel transfers
- Seasonal demand
Some tickets include shared hotel transportation after arriving on Koh Kood, while others are pier-to-pier only.
Always confirm exactly what is included before purchasing your ticket.
Ferry Schedules
Schedules change throughout the year based on weather and passenger demand.
During the high season (November to April), travelers can usually expect:
- Morning departures
- Late morning departures
- Midday departures
- Some afternoon departures (approximately 4:00–4:30 PM)
Many operators schedule crossings between mid-morning and early afternoon when sea conditions are typically calmer.
During the rainy season (May to October), departures become less frequent, and cancellations due to rough seas are possible.
Always reconfirm departure times with your accommodation or ferry operator one day before travel.
Booking Your Ferry
Booking is straightforward and can be done through:
- Local travel agencies on Koh Mak
- Hotels and guesthouses
- Ferry company ticket offices
During the busy travel season, booking at least one day in advance is recommended, especially during weekends, public holidays, and long holiday periods.
If traveling during the low season, checking availability shortly before departure is advisable because schedules may change depending on weather conditions.
Check-in and Boarding
To ensure a smooth departure:
- Arrive at the pier at least 30–45 minutes before departure.
- Keep your ticket readily available for check-in.
- Clearly label your luggage.
- Follow staff instructions during boarding.
Depending on tide levels, boarding may involve walking along narrow floating pontoons or stepping directly onto the boat from a pier.
Wearing sandals or footwear that can get wet is often the most practical choice.
Luggage Information
Most ferry operators include standard luggage in the ticket price.
Typical baggage accepted includes:
- Backpacks
- Medium and large suitcases
- Travel bags
Extra fees are uncommon for normal-sized luggage, although unusually large or oversized items may require prior approval.
For electronics such as laptops, cameras, and drones, carrying a waterproof dry bag or waterproof packing cube is strongly recommended, as sea spray can occasionally reach passenger seating areas on speedboats.
Hotel Transfers
Transfer arrangements vary between operators.
Possible options include:
- Ferry ticket only
- Ferry plus shared hotel transfer
- Resort-organized pickup
If your ticket includes hotel transportation on Koh Kood, drivers usually wait near Ao Salad Pier after arrival.
If no transfer is included, local songthaews and taxis are generally available to take visitors to resorts across the island.
Best Time to Travel
High Season (November–April)
This is the best period for ferry travel.
Advantages include:
- Calm sea conditions
- More daily departures
- Faster crossings
- Greater schedule reliability
Rainy Season (May–October)
Travel remains possible but requires greater flexibility.
Conditions may include:
- Reduced ferry schedules
- Last-minute cancellations
- Rougher sea conditions
- Longer travel times
If storms are forecast, always confirm that your ferry is operating before leaving your accommodation.
Safety Tips
Although the crossing is short, a few simple precautions can make your journey more comfortable.
- Choose larger boats or catamarans if you are prone to seasickness.
- Keep valuables in waterproof bags.
- Wear your provided life jacket throughout the journey.
- Avoid standing while the boat is moving.
- Listen carefully to crew instructions during boarding and arrival.
Sample Travel Plan
A typical high-season itinerary looks like this:
The Day Before
- Book a morning or midday ferry.
- Confirm whether hotel transfers are included.
- Pack electronics in waterproof protection.
Travel Day
- Arrive at Ao Nid Pier 30–45 minutes before departure.
- Complete check-in.
- Enjoy a 30–45 minute crossing to Koh Kood.
After Arrival
- Meet your shared transfer if included.
- Otherwise, take a local songthaew or taxi to your accommodation.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Koh Mak to Koh Kood is one of the quickest and most convenient island transfers in eastern Thailand. With a journey of less than an hour, affordable fares, and multiple departures during the high season, it is an excellent option for first-time visitors exploring the Trat archipelago.
Planning ahead, checking seasonal schedules, and confirming whether hotel transfers are included will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the ferry from Koh Mak to Koh Kood?
Most ferries take between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on the boat type and sea conditions.
2. How much does a ferry ticket cost?
One-way tickets generally cost between THB 400 and THB 650.
3. Which pier does the ferry leave from on Koh Mak?
Most ferries depart from Ao Nid Pier, the island’s main passenger pier.
4. Where do ferries arrive on Koh Kood?
Most services arrive at Ao Salad Pier, the main gateway to Koh Kood.
5. Are ferries available every day?
Yes, daily services usually operate throughout the year, although schedules are more frequent during the high season.
6. Should I book my ferry in advance?
Yes. Booking at least one day ahead is recommended during the high season and public holidays.
7. Is luggage included in the ticket price?
Yes. Standard luggage such as backpacks and suitcases is normally included without additional charges.
8. Are hotel transfers included?
Some ferry tickets include shared hotel transfers, while others only cover transportation between the two piers. Always check before booking.
9. Can ferries be canceled because of bad weather?
Yes. During the rainy season, rough seas may cause delays or cancellations, sometimes at short notice.
10. What is the best time of year to travel from Koh Mak to Koh Kood?
November through April offers the calmest seas, the most reliable schedules, and the greatest number of daily departures.
