Donsak (Laem Thuat Donsak Pier) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Donsak is easily accessible from major transportation hubs in southern Thailand. From Surat Thani city, it's approximately a 60-minute drive (about 60km) along well-maintained highways. Regular buses and minivans operate between Surat Thani's train station, town center, and Donsak pier, typically taking 1-1.5 hours depending on stops. If arriving from further afield, Surat Thani International Airport offers connections to Bangkok and other major cities, with shuttle services running to Donsak. For those driving, ample parking is available near the ferry terminal, though rates vary during high season.

Nestled on Thailand's eastern Gulf coast, Donsak serves as the vital mainland ferry connection to some of the country's most beloved islands. This bustling port town in Surat Thani province combines authentic Thai coastal life with the excitement of maritime travel. From the moment you arrive at Laem Thuat Donsak Pier, you'll feel the anticipation of island adventures while experiencing the charm of a working Thai port town.

The optimal time to visit Donsak and use its ferry services is during Thailand's dry season, from November through April, when seas are calmer and ferry cancellations less likely. December to February offers particularly pleasant temperatures, with cooling breezes and clear skies perfect for island-hopping adventures. The monsoon season (May to October) brings occasional heavy rains and rougher seas, with September and October seeing the highest rainfall. Ferry services operate year-round, but with reduced frequency during stormy weather, so checking schedules in advance is essential during the wet season.

Donsak serves as the primary jumping-off point for several spectacular Gulf of Thailand islands. Koh Samui, reachable in approximately 1.5 hours by ferry, offers pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and a well-developed tourist infrastructure. Adventure-seekers can continue to Koh Phangan (2 hours from Donsak), home to the famous Full Moon Party and increasingly popular yoga retreats. Further out lies Koh Tao (about 3.5 hours total journey), a world-renowned diving paradise with crystal clear waters. The scenic ferry routes provide stunning views of limestone karsts and the azure Gulf waters, making the journey itself a memorable part of your Thai adventure.

While many travelers pass quickly through Donsak on their way to the islands, the area rewards those who linger with authentic Thai experiences. Sample extraordinarily fresh seafood at the local markets, where fishermen bring their daily catch directly to vendors. Don't miss the chance to try Kanom Jeen (rice noodles with curry) at roadside stalls, a regional specialty. The nearby Khao Tha Phet temple offers cultural insight and magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. For nature enthusiasts, the mangrove forests just north of town provide excellent kayaking opportunities to observe local ecosystems while waiting for your ferry departure.

Donsak has served as a crucial maritime crossroads for centuries, with evidence of trading vessels using the natural harbor since the Srivijaya Empire (7th-13th centuries). The area was once notorious for pirates who would hide in the numerous small bays and coves before attacking merchant ships traveling between China and the Malay Peninsula. Local fishermen still practice the ancient art of Uan Pla, a unique net-fishing technique passed down through generations. The name 'Donsak' derives from a combination of 'Don' (elevated land) and 'Sak' (teak tree), referring to the teak forests that once dominated the landscape.