Exploring Nathon Pier: Koh Samui’s Vibrant Transport Hub!

Last updated on July 6, 2024

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Nathon Pier, the renowned gateway to Koh Samui, stands as the island’s main transportation hub. Situated on Koh Samui’s northwest shore, this dynamic port offers ferry connections to neighboring islands and the Thai mainland, serving as a start point for numerous island explorations.

Read about:
Location of Nathon Pier
Services from Nathon Pier
Nathon Pier Facilities
Getting to Nathon Pier

Nathon Pier Koh Samui
Nathon Pier Koh Samui is where you board the Seatran Ferry

Location of Nathon Pier

Nathon Pier, a significant hub, is snugly located on Koh Samui’s northwest coast, in the vibrant town of Nathon. It’s not just a pier; it’s a continual arrival point for ferries from various exotic locations, making it the island’s foremost harbor.

Nathon town, with its array of shops, eateries, and essential services, envelops the pier, presenting itself as an ideal base for accessing Nathon Pier and for initiating day trips to the surrounding islands. The pier is approximately 24 kilometers and a 40-minute drive by car from Koh Samui Airport, positioning itself conveniently for travelers.

Ferry Services from Nathon Pier

Seatran Ferry Koh Samui
Seatran car ferry in Nathon Pier Koh Samui © BZ Travel / Shutterstock.com

Nathon Pier is the place where you embark on the Seatran Ferry, and it facilitates various ferry routes, allowing travelers to choose according to their preferences:

From Nathon to Koh Tao, Lomprayah provides multiple daily departures, starting at 700 THB each way, whereas Songserm offers a more leisurely journey at 600 THB per adult one-way.

From Nathon to Koh Phangan, Lomprayah catamarans make the journey in 30 minutes, starting at 350 THB each way, contrasting with Songserm’s 1-hour journey at 250 THB per adult one-way.

From Nathon Pier to Donsak Pier, Seatran runs comfortable 90-minute ferry crossings at around 240 THB one-way, with both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing travelers to enjoy scenic ocean vistas. Complete Schedule: Ferry Schedule: Koh Samui to Donsak

For the convenience of travelers, tickets can be purchased online in advance through platforms like 12Go or directly from Seatran, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Koh Samui - Surat Thani ฿ 650–6,600 30m – 3h 30m
  •   Van 9pax
  •   SUV 4pax
  •   Economy 2pax
  •   Van 10pax
Koh Samui - Surat Thani ฿ 600–700 1h 30m – 2h 30m
  •   Speedboat 08:30, 11:45

Nathon Pier Facilities

Panoramic shot from a mountain in Koh Samui on March 23, 2023, highlighting the serene Nathon Bay, vibrant Nathon Beach, and structured Nathon Pier with a backdrop of the calm sea and lush coconut tree forest.
Aerial view of Nathon Pier highlighting its facilities amidst the lush surroundings of Koh Samui © suttirat wiriyanon / Shutterstock.com

Nathon Pier is well-equipped with facilities including three distinct jetties, large air-conditioned halls, a variety of food stalls, shops, and a comfortable waiting lounge with TVs, clean restrooms, and free basic Wi-Fi, making the wait pleasurable for travelers.

Outside the pier, ample parking, more restaurants, and shops are available, with ATMs and banks residing just a short walk away in Nathon town, adding to the convenience for travelers.

Getting to Nathon Pier

Songthaew
Songthaews are available in most places in Thailand. Here on Koh Samui © OlegD / Shutterstock.com

Nathon Pier is strategically located, approximately 24 kilometers and a 40-minute drive from Koh Samui Airport, and serves as the transportation hub of Koh Samui, providing a range of travel options to various destinations around the island.

To reach Nathon Pier from Koh Samui Airport, both taxis and shared minibuses are available. These options cater to different preferences; taxis offer a quick and convenient journey for 800 THB, ideal for those with more luggage, whereas shared minibuses are a more economical choice at 200 THB per person.

From Nathon Pier, diverse transport options are available to explore Koh Samui’s popular beaches and attractions, such as the lively Chaweng Beach and the picturesque Bophut with its Fisherman’s Village. The proximity of the nearby town also provides a pleasant base for accessing the bustling ferry port, making it easy to navigate Koh Samui.

Nathon Pier, with its strategic location, diverse services, and comprehensive facilities, stands as a pivotal point for exploring Koh Samui and beyond. Whether you’re setting foot on the island or gearing up to explore, Nathon Pier ensures your journey is smooth and enjoyable, and the vibrant town of Nathon offers a welcoming base for your travels.

How do I get to Nathon Pier?

Nathon Pier is strategically located in the town of Nathon, on Koh Samui’s northwest coast, and is approximately 24 kilometers from Koh Samui Airport. It’s accessible by various transportation options like taxis and shared minibusses from different parts of Koh Samui.

How do I get from Koh Samui Airport to Nathon Pier?

From Koh Samui Airport, you have the option of a taxi, which takes around 40 minutes and costs approximately 800 THB, or a shared minibus, which costs around 200 THB per person and takes approximately 50 minutes. These options cater to different preferences, offering either convenience or economy.

What is the best pier from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?

Nathon Pier is a primary choice for many, offering services like Lomprayah, which takes around 90 minutes to Koh Tao, and Songserm, with a journey time of around 4 hours. For current schedules and prices, refer to real-time data on platforms like 12Go or consult directly with the ferry operators.

What is the pier called in Koh Samui?

The main pier in Koh Samui is known as Nathon Pier, serving as the island’s principal transportation hub for ferry connections to several neighboring islands and the Thai mainland. Another notable pier is Rassada Pier in Phuket, which is a gateway to Phi Phi Islands, Krabi, and other destinations.

Are there any amenities and food options available at Nathon Pier?

Yes, Nathon Pier provides a range of amenities including comfortable seating areas, clean restrooms, free basic Wi-Fi, and various food stalls offering snacks, drinks, and local street food, ensuring a pleasant experience for travelers.

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Kamolchat Thanaditsayakun
About Kamolchat Thanaditsayakun

My name is Kamolchat - a writer with a passion for travel who loves sharing stories of new destinations and unforgettable adventures. I was born and raised in Thailand and I have always been captivated by the beauty and diversity of my homeland which inspired me to venture out and discover the world.

Over the years, I have had the pleasure of contributing to various travel publications and websites, such as Lonely Planet and Viator. I strive to provide an authentic representation of the places I visit, get into the heart of local cultures and finding authentic experiences that nourishes the soul.

As I continue to journey across the globe, I want you to join me in experiencing the wonders of our world through my stories. Together, we can learn, grow, and be inspired by the incredible people, places, and cultures that make our planet such an extraordinary place to explore.