Morning train, afternoon island
Take an early southbound train to Chumphon, transfer to the pier, and the catamaran lands you at Mae Haad in the early afternoon — checked in and snorkelling before sunset. Buy the boat ticket ahead in high season; the pier transfer is included with combined tickets.
Transport
Tickets & connections
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Route at a glance
Ban Krut to Koh Tao
- Train Ban Krut–Chumphon: about 2 hours
- Catamaran Chumphon–Koh Tao: 1½–2 hours
- Total: about 5–6 hours including transfer
- Night boat alternative departs Chumphon around midnight
Good to know
Good to know
- Check the catamaran times first, then pick the train that fits — not the other way round.
- Rough-season crossings (Nov–Dec) favour the big catamarans.
- Koh Tao rooms in high season book out — reserve before you board.
- Heading back, the afternoon boat connects to northbound evening trains at Chumphon.