Laem Sok Ferries

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

Travelers typically reach Laem Sok by road from Bangkok, with the journey taking approximately 5-6 hours by car or bus. Regular public buses run from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Trat town, followed by a 30-minute songthaew (shared taxi) ride to the pier. From Trat Airport, minivan services offer direct transfers to Laem Sok, taking about 45 minutes. If arriving by private vehicle, the pier provides long-term parking facilities at reasonable rates. Many travelers find it convenient to arrange transportation through their accommodation or ferry operators, who often provide package deals including transfers.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Thailand, Laem Sok serves as a vital ferry gateway to some of the country's most pristine islands. This small port village in Trat Province offers travelers their first glimpse of the Gulf of Thailand's azure waters before embarking on island adventures. Though humble in size, Laem Sok's significance as a maritime hub makes it an essential starting point for those seeking the tropical splendor of Koh Kood, Koh Mak, and other island gems.

The ideal time to visit Laem Sok and its connected islands falls between November and April during the dry season, when clear skies and calm seas ensure smooth ferry crossings. December through February offers particularly pleasant temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F) with lower humidity. The monsoon season from May to October brings occasional heavy rainfall and rougher seas, with some ferry services operating on reduced schedules. October and November mark a sweet spot with decreasing rainfall, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes following the wet months. Note that high season (December-January) sees increased ferry traffic, making advance booking advisable.

Koh Kood (also spelled Koh Kut) stands as the premier destination from Laem Sok, with high-speed ferries making the crossing in about 90 minutes. This unspoiled island boasts some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches and waterfalls with relatively few tourists. Koh Mak, reachable in approximately 1 hour, offers a laid-back atmosphere with family-friendly resorts and stunning coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. More adventurous travelers can explore Koh Rang National Marine Park, where protected waters harbor vibrant marine life across several small islands. The scenic ferry journeys themselves provide spectacular views of the Gulf of Thailand's scattered islands and occasional dolphin sightings.

While most travelers use Laem Sok primarily as a departure point, the surrounding area offers several worthwhile experiences. The nearby mangrove forests can be explored by longtail boat tours, where you might spot monkeys, birds, and monitor lizards among the twisted roots. Fresh seafood shines at the local restaurants near the pier, where specialties include blue crab curry and tom yam with locally caught prawns. The fishing village itself provides a glimpse into authentic coastal Thai life, with opportunities to watch fishermen mend nets and unload their daily catch. For those with extra time, the nearby Trat Museum showcases the province's rich maritime history and cultural heritage.

Laem Sok sits near waters that once harbored pirates who preyed on trading vessels between Siam and China, with some local fishing families tracing their ancestry to these maritime raiders. The name 'Laem Sok' translates roughly to 'Elbow Cape,' referring to the distinctive curved shape of the coastline visible from above. The pier area marks one of Thailand's easternmost points, sitting just 30km from the Cambodian maritime border. Local fishermen still practice the ancient art of squid fishing using specially designed lamps that illuminate the night waters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for evening ferry departures.