Phuket and Koh Samui sit on opposite sides of the Thai peninsula — Phuket on the Andaman Sea, Samui on the Gulf of Thailand. By air, a direct flight takes around an hour, and it is by far the most comfortable way to make the crossing. Flights depart from Phuket Airport with arrivals into Samui.
If you want to travel overland and by sea, combined van or bus services head east across the peninsula and connect with a ferry to Samui at the Gulf coast. Departures from Rassada Pier, Chalong Pier and other Phuket points are available depending on the service type you choose. Ferry arrivals on Samui come into Bangrak, Mae Nam or Nathon Pier.
With over 20 operators on this corridor, fares start from THB 700 and departures run from early morning. The overland option suits travellers who want to see more of the country en route, while the flight suits those who want to reach Samui's beaches with as little travel time as possible. Book ahead in the November–April peak period.