Koh Kood Ferry Guide: Routes, Speedboats & Local Tips

Most Thai islands are packed with crowds these days, but Koh Kood still feels refreshingly untouched. People come here for quiet beaches, jungle waterfalls, and water so clear it barely looks real. Even the trip to the island feels different, slower, calmer, and like the start of a real escape.

If you are looking for a place that still feels raw and peaceful, Koh Kood is exactly that. This Koh Kood ferry guide covers everything you need to know before making the journey, from routes and ferry options to practical tips that can save you both time and money. Whether it is your first time visiting Thailand or you have already explored the country before, a little planning makes the trip to Koh Kood much smoother.

Koh Kood is located in Trat Province near the Cambodian border, and since there is no airport on the island, arriving by ferry is the only option. That extra effort is part of what keeps the island so quiet and uncrowded. As the mainland disappears behind you and small tropical islands begin appearing on the horizon, the whole journey starts to feel like you are leaving the busy world behind.

Where Is Koh Kood Located?

Koh Kood (also written as Koh Kut) is the fourth-largest island in Thailand, roughly 80 kilometres southeast of the mainland pier at Laem Sok. It sits in the Gulf of Thailand and shares the same general region as better-known islands like Koh Chang and Koh Mak, though it receives a fraction of their visitor numbers.

From my research and multiple visits to this region, Koh Kood genuinely stands apart. Locals who have lived on the island for decades often describe it as what Thailand felt like 20 years ago, and honestly, that description holds up.

Why Take a Ferry to Koh Kood?

The ferry is not just a transportation method; it is the start of the experience. Because no airport exists on Koh Kood, the boat journey acts as a natural filter that keeps mass tourism away. That is a good thing for everyone who makes the trip. Beyond the atmosphere, ferries are affordable, run on predictable schedules during high season, and are genuinely safe when you use licensed operators. For families, couples, and solo travellers alike, the crossing is a chance to relax before you even arrive.

Dreaming of Koh Kood? Discover the fastest, cheapest, and easiest ways to get to Koh Kood from Bangkok before you book your trip.

Main Ferry Routes to Koh Kood

There are several ways to reach the island, depending on where you are starting from. Here is a clear breakdown of the main routes travellers use:

The most direct and popular route is from Laem Sok Pier, which sits closest to the island on the mainland side. Most major ferry operators depart from here, and the pier has ticket offices if you prefer buying in person.

How to Reach Koh Kood from Bangkok

Getting from Bangkok is a multi-step journey, but it is well-worn and easy to navigate once you know the sequence. Most travellers follow this path:

• Take a bus or minivan from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Trat; approximately 5 to 6 hours
• From Trat, take a local taxi or shared songthaew to Laem Sok Pier; about 30 to 40 minutes
• Board the ferry or speedboat to Koh Kood

Some travel agencies bundle all three legs into a single combo package. From my experience, these packages are genuinely worth it for first-time visitors; you skip the connection stress entirely. Several reputable operators sell them online with e-ticket confirmation.

Alternatively, Bangkok Airways operates regular flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport, covering the distance in about 50 minutes. From Trat Airport, a taxi to Laem Sok Pier takes roughly 40 minutes. It is faster but considerably more expensive than the bus.

Ferry Departure Points for Koh Kood

Laem Sok Pier is the main gateway. It is straightforward to reach from Trat Town and has basic food stalls and a small waiting area. During high season, it can get busy, so arriving 30 minutes early is a practical habit rather than just advice on a page.

If you are travelling from Koh Chang or Koh Mak, boat transfers do exist between those islands. However, schedules are more limited on those routes. Always confirm timing the day before; island transfers can change based on passenger demand and conditions.

Best Ferry Companies for Koh Kood

Several operators service the Koh Kood route with varying levels of comfort, speed, and pricing. Here is how the main ones compare:

Boonsiri Ferry consistently receives strong reviews and runs a two-stage service, catamaran to a midpoint, then a speedboat transfer to Koh Kood. It is organised, punctual, and the staff are helpful even when things get busy. Industry travel experts commonly recommend booking with established operators rather than pier-side sellers, simply because you get guaranteed boarding and a proper customer contact if anything changes.

Koh Kood Ferry Schedule and Timings

Ferries typically depart once or twice a day, depending on the season. The table below gives a general picture, though exact timings shift year to year:

 What time does the ferry leave for Koh Kood?

During high season, most ferries depart Laem Sok Pier at around 8:00 AM, with a second departure around 1:00 PM. During the shoulder and low season, services are reduced and may be suspended. Always confirm directly with your operator the day before travel.

Koh Kood Ferry Ticket Prices

Pricing is reasonable given the experience waiting at the other end. Here is what you can generally expect:

• Slow passenger ferry (one way): 300 to 400 THB
• Speedboat or catamaran service (one way): 450 to 700 THB
• Combo package from Bangkok, including bus and ferry: 900 to 1,400 THB
• Children under 3 years: typically free of charge
• Children aged 3 to 12: usually 50% of the adult fare, always ask at booking

According to data from regional travel platforms monitored during my research, prices have held fairly steady over the past two years. That said, peak season and public holidays can push fares slightly higher, so booking early locks in the better rates.

Looking for Thailand before the crowds? Explore Koh Kood’s quiet beaches, waterfalls, ferry routes, and hidden island charm in this complete travel guide.

How to Book Koh Kood Ferry Tickets Online

Booking in advance is strongly recommended from November to April. The most reliable ways to secure your ticket online are:

• Official ferry operator websites (Boonsiri, Ao Thai)
• 12go.asia; a widely used Southeast Asia travel booking platform with real-time availability
• Your hotel or resort concierge; many properties on the island arrange transfers as part of the booking

From my experience, 12go.asia is the most straightforward option for first-time visitors. The confirmation is instant, the e-ticket works offline, and the platform clearly displays current availability. Save the PDF on your phone before you leave WiFi range; connectivity between Trat and the pier can be patchy.

Speedboat vs ferry for Koh Kood: which should you choose?

For families, those prone to motion sickness, or anyone travelling with lots of luggage, the slow ferry is the better option. It is stable, spacious, and cheaper. Solo travellers or couples who want to maximise beach time often prefer the speedboat, but in rough seas outside peak season, the slow ferry wins every time.

Speedboat vs Ferry: Which Is Better?

This is easily the most common question on every travel forum covering the eastern Gulf islands. The honest answer depends on what you actually value.

On one shoulder-season trip I took, a speedboat ahead of us turned back midway due to swells. The slow catamaran behind it completed the crossing without drama. That experience alone changed how I think about the trade-off between speed and stability.

When is the best time to visit Koh Kood?

The best time to visit Koh Kood is between November and April, during the dry season. Seas are calm, skies are clear, and ferries run daily. February and March offer excellent weather without the December holiday surge. Avoid June to October if you want reliable ferry access, as monsoon seas can disrupt or suspend services.

Best Time to Visit Koh Kood

Locals who run guesthouses on the island consistently point to February and March as the sweet spot, warm but not oppressive, water at its clearest, and noticeably fewer visitors than December or January. Based on current tourism trends, the shoulder season is becoming more popular with experienced travellers who want the same beauty with less noise.

What to Expect During the Ferry Ride

On the slow ferry, you will find an air-conditioned cabin with seating, an open upper deck, and usually a small counter selling drinks and snacks. It is comfortable, and the upper deck offers genuinely beautiful views as you pass smaller islands along the route.

On the speedboat, expect noise, spray, and a bumpier experience. Sit centrally for the most stable position. Wear sunscreen even on overcast days, the reflection off the water is strong enough to burn without you realising it.

During my last crossing on the catamaran, I spent most of the journey on the open deck. You could see reef formations through the water in places, and a small group of dolphins appeared briefly about halfway across. Bring a camera and keep it somewhere dry; a simple ziplock bag works perfectly.

 Which pier does the ferry dock at on Koh Kood?

Koh Kood has two main piers: Ao Salad Pier in the north and Ao Nid Pier in the south. Most ferry operators dock at Ao Salad. The pier is small and basic, with no shops and minimal seating. Confirm your hotel transfer before arrival, as the lack of regular transport at the pier can catch new visitors off guard.

Transportation from Koh Kood Pier to Hotels

Most resorts and guesthouses arrange complimentary or low-cost pier transfers. However, you need to confirm this in advance; do not assume it is automatic. If your accommodation does not offer a pickup, shared songthaew trucks wait at Ao Salad and can take you toward the main beach areas for a reasonable flat fare.

Motorbike rentals are widely available on the island at around 250 to 350 THB per day. The roads are manageable, but not all are sealed, so take your time, especially near the interior routes. The island is genuinely small enough to explore fully on a motorbike in a single day.

Essential Travel Tips for Koh Kood Ferry Passengers

• Book tickets 2 to 3 days ahead during peak season; boats genuinely sell out
• Arrive at the pier 30 minutes before departure, not 10; boats leave on schedule
• Bring cash to the island; ATMs exist but are limited and occasionally out of service
• Pack a light rain jacket even in the dry season; sea spray on the open deck is real
• Use soft-sided bags rather than hard cases for easier onboard storage
• Confirm your return trip schedule before leaving the mainland, do not discover it is only daily when you need to leave

Things to Pack for the Ferry Journey

Beyond your regular island gear, experienced ferry travellers bring a few specific things for the crossing itself:

• Motion sickness tablets; even calm seas feel different at low altitude in a small vessel
• A reusable water bottle; hydration on the open deck is easy to forget
• A light wrap or jacket for the air-conditioned cabin below deck
• A small dry bag or ziplock bags for phones, cameras, and documents
• Sunscreen and sunglasses rated for UV reflection off water

Can ferries to Koh Kood be cancelled due to the weather?

Yes. Ferry services can be delayed or cancelled during strong winds and monsoon swells, particularly between June and October. The Thai Meteorological Department issues sea advisories for the Gulf of Thailand, and licensed operators are required to assess conditions before each departure. Always check the weather 24 hours ahead and stay in contact with your operator.

Weather Conditions and Ferry Operations

According to maritime safety regulations in Thailand, operators must assess sea conditions before each departure and hold the authority to delay or cancel if safety standards are not met. This is standard practice across the eastern Gulf routes and is enforced by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources.

Safety Tips for Ferry Travel

• Only board vessels operated by licensed, registered companies
• Confirm life jackets are visible and accessible before departure
• Keep your bag close and keep valuables on your person during boarding
• Follow crew instructions at all times during boarding and disembarkation
• Avoid standing on the open deck in rough or choppy conditions

Thailand’s Department of Marine and Coastal Resources conducts regular safety inspections of commercial ferry operators. Reputable companies display their licensing information at ticket counters and aboard vessels. If something feels off about the boat or crew, trust that instinct and choose another operator.

Koh Kood Ferry Travel with Kids and Families

Koh Kood is one of the most genuinely family-friendly islands in Thailand, and the slow ferry is the obvious choice for families. More room, a calmer ride, and far less chaos than a packed speedboat with tired children and a lot of luggage.

On the island itself, beaches like Ao Prao and Ao Bang Bao have calm, shallow water that is safe for younger children. Eco-tourism researchers who cover the eastern Gulf regularly highlight Koh Kood as one of the best family destinations in the region, precisely because it lacks the commercial intensity of more developed islands. Pack snacks for the crossing, bring a few small activities for children, and carry a change of clothes just in case.

Ferry Travel for Solo Travellers

Solo travel to Koh Kood is easy, safe, and socially rewarding. The ferry is a natural meeting point, and I have connected with other travellers on the boat who turned into beach companions for the whole trip. Guesthouses on the island are welcoming to solo visitors, and the community is small enough to feel genuinely friendly.

On the other hand, solo travellers should pay extra attention to return ferry schedules. Missing the last boat from the island means an unplanned extra night, which is not the worst outcome, but it is worth knowing about before it happens rather than after.

Can You Take Vehicles on the Koh Kood Ferry?

Some slow ferry operators allow motorbikes to be transported for an additional charge, typically 200 to 400 THB on top of the passenger fare. Cars are not commonly transported to Koh Kood, and given the island’s compact road network, bringing your own vehicle is not particularly practical. Renting a motorbike on the island itself is far more sensible and costs around 250 to 350 THB per day.

Island Hopping from Koh Kood

Koh Kood sits within easy reach of Koh Mak and Koh Chang, making a multi-island itinerary very achievable. The Koh Mak to Koh Kood crossing takes under an hour by speedboat, and boat connections between these islands operate throughout high season.

A popular route among experienced Thailand travellers involves two nights on Koh Chang, two on Koh Mak, and two on Koh Kood before looping back to the mainland. Each island has a genuinely different character, and the variety across that single week is remarkable.

Popular Attractions Near Koh Kood Ferry Areas

• Once you disembark at Ao Salad Pier, some of the island’s best spots are within easy reach:
• Khlong Chao Waterfall, the island’s most iconic attraction, is a short drive inland from the pier area
• Ao Prao Beach; calm, clear, and ideal for swimming with shallow entry
• Ao Bang Bao, a traditional fishing village with excellent local seafood restaurants
• Snorkelling reefs; the coral around Koh Kood is among the most intact in the Gulf of Thailand

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Ferries

• Leaving ticket booking until the last day in peak season; boats fill up, especially around New Year and Songkran
• Forgetting to arrange the return trip; always check or book the return before you leave the mainland
• Buying tickets from unverified sellers at the pier; stick to licensed operators or known booking platforms
• Assuming your hotel will organise pier pickup without confirming, always check explicitly
• Underestimating total travel time from Bangkok; build in a full day, and do not book a connecting flight the same evening

Final Thoughts on Koh Kood Ferry Travel

Koh Kood rewards the effort to get there. The ferry journey is not an obstacle; it is genuinely the beginning of something special. With tickets booked, pier logistics sorted, and a sense of quiet anticipation packed alongside your sunscreen, the whole experience becomes seamless rather than stressful.

This Koh Kood ferry guide has walked you through every part of the journey, from choosing your route and operator to knowing exactly what to pack for the crossing. Because of that groundwork, you can focus on what actually matters: arriving at one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands with time, energy, and nothing left to worry about.

Go in the dry season if you can. Take the slow ferry if you are with family. Book early, confirm your return, and let the island surprise you. It will.

Frequently Asked Questions About Koh Kood Ferries

How long is the ferry ride to Koh Kood?

From Laem Sok Pier, a slow ferry takes 1.5 to 2 hours. A speedboat covers the same distance in about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Is there a direct ferry from Bangkok to Koh Kood?

No. Travellers take a bus or minivan to Trat, transfer to Laem Sok Pier, then board the ferry. Total time is typically 7 to 9 hours.

How much does the Koh Kood ferry cost?

One-way tickets range from approximately 300 to 700 THB, depending on the operator and boat type.

Can I book Koh Kood ferry tickets online?

Yes. 12go.Asia and official operator websites offer real-time online booking with e-ticket confirmation.

Is the Koh Kood ferry safe?

Yes, when using licensed operators that follow Thailand’s maritime safety regulations. Choose reputable companies with proper safety equipment visible on board.

Do ferries run year-round to Koh Kood?

Services run reliably from November to May. Between June and October, rough monsoon seas can reduce or suspend routes; always confirm before travelling.

Which pier does the ferry arrive at on Koh Kood?

Most ferries dock at Ao Salad Pier in the north of the island. Some services use Ao Nid Pier in the south; confirm with your operator.

Which pier does the ferry arrive at on Koh Kood?

Most ferries dock at Ao Salad Pier in the north of the island. Some services use Ao Nid Pier in the south; confirm with your operator.

Can I take my motorbike on the ferry?

 Some slow ferry operators allow motorbike transport for an extra 200 to 400 THB. Cars are generally not transported to the island.