What if I told you there’s still a Thai island where you can walk along white-sand beaches without crowds, beach clubs, or rows of endless hotels? Koh Kood feels like the Thailand travelers often dream about, but rarely manage to find these days.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, untouched getaway far away from busy tourist spots, Koh Kood is definitely worth the trip. Even though the island doesn’t have an airport, getting there from Bangkok is simpler than most people expect. You can travel by a budget-friendly bus and ferry, take a quick domestic flight, or go for an easy all-in-one transfer package.
I visited this island last November, and I was honestly surprised by how smooth and flexible the journey was. Depending on the route you choose, it usually takes around 6–10 hours, but the slower travel time actually adds to the experience. Koh Kood’s remote location is also what keeps it so special, with quiet fishing villages, clear waterfalls, and beaches that still feel natural and untouched.
Fastest Way to Reach Koh Kood
- Fly Bangkok → Trat
- Taxi to Laem Sok Pier
- Ferry to Koh Kood
- Total time: 4–5 hours
Best Ways to Reach Koh Kood from Bangkok
There are three main ways to get from Bangkok to Koh Kood: flight + ferry, bus + ferry, or private taxi + speedboat. Most first-time visitors choose the flight option to save time, while budget travelers often prefer the cheaper overnight bus that arrives in time for morning ferries.
Overview of Travel Options from Bangkok to Koh Kood
| Route | Approx. Cost (THB) | Total Travel Time | Best For |
| Flight + Ferry | 3,500 – 6,000 | 4 – 5 hours | Speed & comfort |
| Bus + Ferry | 800 – 1,500 | 8 – 10 hours | Budget travelers |
| Private Taxi + Speedboat | 8,000 – 15,000 | 5 – 6 hours | Groups & families |
| Minivan + Ferry | 1,000 – 1,800 | 7 – 9 hours | Mid-range travelers |
Quick Answer: Is flying the fastest way to reach Koh Kood from Bangkok?
Yes. The flight to Trat takes about 50 minutes, followed by a 30-minute transfer to the pier and a 90-minute ferry ride. Total travel time is around 4 to 5 hours, making it the fastest option.
Traveling by Flight and Ferry to Koh Kood
The most popular way to reach Koh Kood is by flying from Bangkok to Trat Airport, a short 50-minute flight operated daily by Bangkok Airways.
After landing, travelers take a taxi or shuttle to Laem Sok Pier or Ao Thammachat Pier, then continue by ferry to Koh Kood.
The ferry ride takes about 1.5–2 hours, with Boonsiri Ferry and Koh Kood Express as the main operators. Boonsiri is often considered the more reliable option during the busy season (November–April).
Key Ferry Operators from Trat to Koh Kood
- Boonsiri Ferry: Runs daily from Laem Sok Pier. Journey time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Koh Kood Express: Departs from Ao Thammachat Pier. Slightly faster at around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Speed Ferries Thailand: Offers speedboat charters and group transfers on request.
Bangkok to Koh Kood by Bus and Ferry
Read next: Bangkok to Koh Kood: Best Ferry, Bus & Flight Options Explained: including ferry companies, travel times, airport transfers, and budget tips.
If your main goal is to save money, taking an overnight bus is a great option. A few companies like Sombat Tour and 999 VIP run buses from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal straight to Trat. The trip usually takes about 5 to 6 hours. After reaching Trat, you can take a shared van or taxi to the pier and then catch the morning ferry.
In total, this whole journey can cost around 800 to 1,500 THB, which is much cheaper compared to flying.
I talked to a traveler who has used this route three times. She said the overnight bus is actually quite comfortable, especially if you book a VIP coach with reclining seats. You can sleep during the ride and wake up right when you arrive in Trat, just in time for the 8 AM ferry.
Still, it’s a good idea to check bus timings ahead of time, because not every bus perfectly matches the ferry schedule.
Quick Answer: How much does the bus and ferry to Koh Kood cost?
Expect to pay between 800 and 1,500 THB for the full bus and ferry journey from Bangkok to Koh Kood, depending on bus class and ferry operator.
Private Taxi and Speedboat Options
For families, groups, or anyone who wants more comfort and flexibility, taking a private taxi from Bangkok straight to the pier is a great choice. The trip usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. From the pier, you can then hop on a private speedboat that takes you directly to your resort on Koh Kood.
This is the most expensive way to travel, but it gives you full control over your timing and schedule. Many resorts on the island also offer complete private transfer packages that include both the taxi and speedboat, so it’s worth checking with your hotel before booking anything on your own.
In fact, some luxury resorts on Koh Kood, especially around Ao Tapao Bay, even arrange private speedboat pickups from Laem Sok Pier as part of their welcome service. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Koh Kood receives around 30,000 to 50,000 visitors each year, and more travelers are now choosing private transfers because they make the journey easier, smoother, and stress-free.
Quick Answer: Can I hire a private speedboat to Koh Kood?
Yes. Private speedboats can be arranged from Laem Sok Pier or Ao Thammachat Pier. Charter rates typically range from 3,000 to 6,000 THB, depending on boat size and season.
Ferry Routes from Trat to Koh Kood
Once you reach Trat province, you’ll have two main piers to choose from: Laem Sok Pier and Ao Thammachat Pier. Both are about 50 to 70 km from Trat town, and during the high season, shared vans regularly run from the Trat bus station to both piers.
On the island side, Koh Kood has two main arrival points: Ao Salat and Bang Bao Pier. Most guesthouses and resorts can be reached from either pier, but it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation in advance to see which arrival point is closer for you.
Ferry Routes from Trat Province to Koh Kood
| Departure Pier | Arrival Pier (Koh Kood) | Duration | Frequency |
| Laem Sok Pier | Ao Salat / Bang Bao | 1 hr 45 min | 2 – 3 daily (high season) |
| Ao Thammachat Pier | Bang Bao | 1 hr 30 min | 1 – 2 daily |
| Private Charter (Laem Sok) | Resort Pier | 1 hr – 1 hr 30 min | On demand |
How Long Does It Take to Reach Koh Kood
Travel time really depends on which route you choose. The fastest option is a flight plus ferry combination, which usually takes around 4 to 5 hours in total.
If you go by bus and ferry, the journey is longer, about 8 to 10 hours, but it can be convenient if you travel overnight since you don’t lose any daytime.
A private taxi and speedboat option usually takes around 5 to 6 hours, though this can change depending on traffic when leaving Bangkok.
Also, keep in mind that during the rainy season (May to October), delays are possible. Rough sea conditions can sometimes even lead to ferry cancellations. So, if you’re traveling between June and September, it’s smart to plan some extra time just in case.
Quick Answer: How long does it take to get to Koh Kood from Bangkok?
The fastest route takes around 4 to 5 hours via flight and ferry. The bus and ferry option takes 8 to 10 hours. Travel times vary by route and season.
Bangkok to Koh Kood Travel Costs Breakdown
One thing I’ve noticed while planning this trip is that prices change quite a lot depending on the season and how early you book. Flights to Trat are usually much cheaper if you book them two to three weeks ahead.
Ferry prices stay mostly the same, but speedboats and private transfers get more expensive during peak season, which runs from November to April. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you plan your budget better:
Detailed Cost Breakdown: Bangkok to Koh Kood Travel
| Item | Budget (THB) | Mid-Range (THB) | Premium (THB) |
| Flight Bangkok to Trat | N/A | 2,200 – 3,500 | 3,500+ |
| Bus from Bangkok to Trat | 350 – 600 | 600 – 900 | N/A |
| Shared Van to Pier | 150 – 250 | 150 – 250 | N/A |
| Ferry to Koh Kood | 400 – 600 | 400 – 600 | 600 – 800 |
| Private Speedboat | N/A | N/A | 3,000 – 6,000 |
| Private Taxi Bangkok to Pier | N/A | N/A | 4,000 – 6,000 |
Best Time to Travel to Koh Kood
From my own experience, the best time to visit Koh Kood is November through April. During these months, the sea is usually calm, ferries run without much trouble, and the island looks its best with clear blue water and plenty of sunshine.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand also says this is the official high season for the eastern Gulf islands, including Koh Kood, Koh Mak, and Koh Chang.
On the other hand, if you travel between May and October, you can expect rougher seas, possible ferry delays or cancellations, and more rainy days. However, this low season also has its advantages; hotel prices are much lower, and the island is far less crowded, which some people actually enjoy.
Quick Answer: What is the best time to visit Koh Kood?
November to April is the best time to visit Koh Kood. Ferries are reliable, the seas are calm, and the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid June to September if you want guaranteed ferry access.
Tips for a Smooth Koh Kood Journey
After talking with locals and travelers who have done this trip many times, here are some simple and practical tips:
• Book ferry tickets early during the busy season, especially around Thai holidays like Songkran and Christmas week.
• Check the weather before going to the pier, especially from May to October when the sea can get rough.
• Reach the pier early, because some ferries leave right on time and won’t wait. For example, Boonsiri Ferry usually starts boarding about 30 minutes before departure.
• Keep some cash in Thai Baht, since ATMs are limited on Koh Kood and many places like resorts and small restaurants may not accept cards.
• Double-check your arrival pier with your resort before traveling so there’s no confusion when you reach the island.
Where to Book Koh Kood Transport Tickets
You can book flight tickets directly from the Bangkok Airways website, and they often offer the cheapest fares.
For ferry tickets, you can book online through the Boonsiri Ferry website and Koh Kood Express.
You can also use websites like 12Go Asia and Bookaway, which compare different transport options in one place. This is very helpful if you want to book a bus and ferry together in a single ticket. I personally used 12Go Asia on my last trip and found it simple and reliable for ferry bookings.
Another option is to go through travel agents in Bangkok, especially in areas like Khao San Road and Sukhumvit. They can arrange your full trip, but usually charge a small extra fee for their service.
Final Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Koh Kood is one of those rare Thai islands that still feels quiet, remote, and untouched. Since it’s farther from the mainland than Koh Chang or Koh Samet, it doesn’t get as many tourists and keeps its natural beauty.
To enjoy your trip fully, it’s a good idea to plan your travel route, especially if you’re going in the busy season. From experience, the flight and ferry combination is usually the best option because it saves time while still being reasonably priced for most travelers.
If you’re traveling on a budget, the overnight bus is also a great choice, and many people feel it’s worth it for the money they save. No matter which option you pick, knowing how to get to Koh Kood from Bangkok ahead of time will make your journey much easier, less stressful, and more enjoyable overall.
Conclusion: The Smartest Way to Reach Koh Kood from Bangkok
Getting to Koh Kood from Bangkok is quite easy with a few travel choices. You can take a quick flight to Trat, go for a budget-friendly bus and ferry combo, or choose a comfortable private transfer. Trusted services like 12Go Asia and Boonsiri Ferry make booking simple and stress-free.
The trip is totally worth it because Koh Kood is one of Thailand’s most peaceful and least developed islands, still beautifully untouched due to its remote location and low tourist crowds. The Tourism Authority of Thailand also recommends visiting during the dry season when the sea is calm, and travel is more reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I get to Koh Kood from Bangkok?
The most common ways are: fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport and take a ferry, or take an overnight bus to Trat and then a ferry. The flight plus ferry option takes around 4 to 5 hours. The bus plus ferry route takes 8 to 10 hours but costs much less.
2. How long is the ferry ride to Koh Kood?
The ferry from Laem Sok Pier takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to Koh Kood. From Ao Thammachat Pier, the crossing takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Private speedboats can do it in around 1 hour.
3. Is Koh Kood accessible year-round?
Not entirely. During the low season between May and October, sea conditions can be rough, and some ferry services are reduced or suspended. The high season from November to April offers the most reliable travel conditions.
4. What is the cheapest way to get to Koh Kood from Bangkok?
The cheapest option is the overnight bus from Bangkok to Trat combined with a standard ferry. This can cost as little as 800 to 1,200 THB in total, compared to 3,500 THB or more for the flight plus ferry route.
5. Are there direct buses from Bangkok to Koh Kood?
There are no buses that go directly to the island, but several operators run buses from Bangkok to Trat town. From there, shared vans take you to the pier where you board the ferry to Koh Kood.
6. Do I need to book the ferry in advance?
During the high season from November to April, especially around Thai public holidays, it is strongly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance online. In the low season, you can usually buy tickets at the pier on the day of travel.
7. Which pier do I use to get to Koh Kood?
The two main departure piers are Laem Sok Pier and Ao Thammachat Pier, both in Trat province. Most travelers use Laem Sok Pier because Boonsiri Ferry operates frequent services from there.
8. Can I take a private speedboat to Koh Kood?
Yes. Private speedboat charters are available from Laem Sok Pier and can be arranged directly through boat operators at the pier or in advance through your resort. This option is ideal for groups and typically costs 3,000 to 6,000 THB, depending on boat size.