Ferry vs. Speedboat: Best Way to Reach Koh Kood

Koh Kood is an attractive island in Thailand, often referred to as the “Andaman of the East Sea”. It is known for its clear water, fine white sand, lush natural forests, mountains, waterfalls, mangrove forests, and coral reefs. Despite being the fourth largest island in Thailand, it maintains a peaceful atmosphere and is less crowded than some other major islands. Visitors can also experience the simple way of life of the villagers.

For travelers planning a trip to this tranquil paradise, a key decision is how to get there from the mainland: by ferry or by speedboat. This post will compare these two options, covering speed, cost, comfort, reliability, and practical considerations to help you choose the best way for your journey to Koh Kood.

Getting to the Gateway: Reaching Laem Sok Pier (Trat)

The primary mainland departure point for boats heading to Koh Kood is Laem Sok Pier, located near Trat city. There are several ways to reach Trat and the pier from Bangkok (Bangkok to Koh Kood):

By Car: The drive takes approximately 4-6 hours. Covered, secure parking is available near the pier offices for around 50 Baht per day.
By Bus: Buses depart from Bangkok’s Mo Chit and Ekkamai bus stations. The bus journey to Trat bus station takes about 5-6 hours. This is generally considered the most cost-effective way from Bangkok. Buses often leave early in the morning, typically between 5 am and 7 am. Many ferry and catamaran companies offer free shuttle buses from Trat city or the bus station to Laem Sok pier. One company, Koh Kood Princess, charges a small fee (38 Baht per person) for their shuttle service from Trat hotels.
By Plane: Bangkok Airways offers daily flights between Bangkok (BKK) and Trat Airport (TDX). The flight takes about 50 minutes. While the quickest air travel option, you still need to get from Trat Airport to Laem Sok Pier.

Some companies also offer combined bus/ferry or private transfer packages from Bangkok or Pattaya directly to Koh Kood.

Option 1: The Ferry Experience

Ferry services to Koh Kood are operated by companies like Koh Kood Princess, Ko Kut Express Ferry, and Boonsiri High Speed Ferry (which uses catamarans).

Vessel Description: Ferries are typically larger boats. For example, the Koh Kood Princess vessel is 33 meters long and can carry 300 passengers. The Ko Kut Express Ferry can accommodate about 300 passengers, and Boonsiri uses catamarans with capacities up to 288 seats. Amenities often include air-conditioned cabins, outdoor seating, and toilets. Some ferries may also have a snack bar onboard.
Travel Time: The journey from Laem Sok to Koh Kood usually takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. Some faster ferries or catamarans can make the crossing in approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes. The Koh Kood Princess journey is listed as 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Cost: Ferries are generally the more budget-friendly option for direct travel between the mainland pier and Koh Kood. Fares range from approximately 345 Baht to 570 Baht per person. Children under a certain age often travel free or receive a 50% discount.

Pros:

Cost-Effective: Typically the cheapest way to get to Koh Kood.
Reliable: Many ferry and catamaran services, like Boonsiri and Ko Kut Express, run year-round, even during the low season (May-October) when speedboats may stop operating. In cases of extreme weather, some companies offer alternative road/boat services.
Comfort: Larger vessels can sometimes provide a more stable ride, and features like air-conditioned cabins and space to move around can enhance comfort. One source mentions that even the shittiest ferry makes a long bus ride seem like a punishment.
Can potentially transport bicycles, though contacting the company in advance is recommended.

Cons:

Slower: Journey times are longer compared to speedboats [135, 136, 137, 139 vs 135, 138, 55, 28].
Still susceptible to rough seas, which can lead to seasickness.
Generally drop off at main island piers, requiring onward transfer to your accommodation.
Motorbikes cannot be taken onboard; they must be left on the mainland.

Option 2: The Speedboat Experience

Speedboat services are available for a faster transit to Koh Kood. Companies mentioned include Siriwhite / Laem Sok Group, Bang Bao Boats, and Kai Bae Nor Nou.

Vessel Description: Speedboats vary in size, with some companies using larger 3-engine boats for potentially rougher conditions or larger groups. These vessels generally have less space and fewer amenities compared to the larger ferries.
Travel Time: Speedboats are significantly faster, often completing the trip from Laem Sok to Koh Kood in about 50 minutes to 1 hour. Island hopping between Koh Chang and Koh Kood by speedboat can take 1-2 hours.
Cost: Speedboats are typically more expensive than standard ferries. Fares from Laem Sok to Koh Kood are around 580-600 Baht per person. Private speedboat charters are also available but come at a higher cost.

Pros:

Speed: Offers the fastest way to reach the island.
One source describes travelling by fast new speedboats as the “most comfortable way to travel” between Laem Sok and Koh Kood, though comfort can depend on sea conditions and the specific boat.
Some speedboats may drop passengers directly at their resort pier if feasible.

Cons:

Seasonal Operation: Most speedboats cease operations during the low/rainy season (typically mid-May to mid-October/early November) due to weather conditions. Ferry or catamaran services are generally the more reliable options during these months.
Cost: More expensive than regular ferries.
Can be a rougher ride than larger ferries in challenging weather. One traveler reported getting seasick on a smaller ship during rough seas.
Onward Transfer: Some speedboat companies, specifically Kai Bae Nor Nou, do NOT include free transfer from the arrival pier on Koh Kood to your accommodation. You may need to arrange transport with your resort or hire a local taxi.
Motorbikes cannot be taken onboard; they must be left on the mainland.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing

Time vs. Cost: The most significant trade-off is usually between saving time (speedboat, higher cost) and saving money (ferry, longer journey).
Travel Season & Weather: If traveling during the low/rainy season (June-October), check weather forecasts as rough seas are possible. During this period, year-round ferry or catamaran services are generally the only reliable options.
Tolerance for Rough Seas/Seasickness: The Gulf of Thailand can experience big swells. While both vessel types can be affected, larger ferries might offer a slightly more stable ride than smaller speedboats in bad weather. Seasickness medication is widely available, and some find Fisherman’s Friends lozenges helpful.
Comfort Preferences: Consider onboard amenities like air-conditioned cabins available on many ferries. Speedboats are faster but may be bumpy and lack extensive facilities.
Getting to/from Piers:
- Mainland (Laem Sok): Many companies offer free shuttle buses from Trat city/bus station to Laem Sok, though some may charge a small fee.
- On Koh Kood: Most ferry and catamaran services include a free transfer service from the main arrival pier (e.g., Ao Salad, Klong Mad) to your accommodation on the island. Crucially, confirm this when booking, as some speedboat companies (like Kai Bae Nor Nou) do NOT provide this free onward transfer. If your boat doesn’t include it, you’ll need to arrange transport with your resort or hire a local taxi.
Parking: Secure, covered parking is available near the pier offices for approximately 50 Baht per day if you drive.
Luggage & Bikes: No strict limit on personal luggage is noted for some ferries. Motorbikes are not allowed on the island via the ferries/speedboats and should be left on the mainland. Bicycles might be allowed on ferries but require confirmation with the company.

Getting Around ON Koh Kood: An Important Note

It is important to understand that there is no public transportation system on Koh Kood. The most common way visitors explore the island is by renting a motorbike (scooter).

Crucial Safety Warning & Travel Insurance:

Riding motorbikes in Thailand carries significant risks, and serious accidents involving tourists occur. It is absolutely essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers motorbike accidents. Most travel insurance policies will not cover accidents if you do not possess a valid motorbike license from your home country. Travelers without proper insurance and licenses who are involved in accidents can face severe financial burdens for medical treatment and repatriation. Travel insurance can also cover unexpected issues like damaged electronics. It is strongly recommended to secure reputable travel insurance before your trip.

Alternative transport options on the island include chartering songthaew taxis, though this can be less convenient and potentially costly compared to renting a scooter.

Booking and Practical Tips

Book in Advance: It is recommended to book ferry or boat tickets online or in advance, especially during peak season, as services can be full. Some companies might be less responsive to online booking requests, suggesting contact once you are in Thailand or booking a different operator.
Check-in: Arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as boats generally leave on time.
Confirm Piers and Transfers: Verify the departure pier on the mainland (usually Laem Sok) and the arrival pier on Koh Kood (e.g., Ao Salad, Klong Mad, Ao Tapao/Nam Luek). Re-confirm that your ticket includes the free transfer service from the Koh Kood arrival pier to your accommodation. If not included, arrange pickup with your resort beforehand or be prepared to hire a local taxi.
Rainy Season: Travel is possible during the rainy season (June-October), but check weather conditions as delays or rougher seas can occur.

Island Appeal and Context

Koh Kood Princess was one of the first companies to offer speedboat services before introducing larger ferries. The island’s natural beauty includes waterfalls like Klong Chao Waterfall, which flows year-round and was visited by King Rama VI, and the larger Huang Nam Khiao Waterfall. Other natural features include giant old trees, mangrove forests, and fishing villages like Ao Yai. Despite having a reputation for high-end resorts, there are also budget-friendly accommodation options available. Koh Kood is sometimes described as “rarely written about online” compared to more famous islands, contributing to its less crowded feel. It is possible to visit Koh Kood throughout the year.

Conclusion

Choosing between a ferry and a speedboat to reach Koh Kood depends on your priorities. Ferries are generally more affordable and reliable year-round, offering potential comfort benefits with larger vessels. Speedboats provide a faster journey and, in some cases, may offer direct resort drop-offs, but they are more expensive and primarily operate during the high season.