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SmartEnPlus Blog: How to Travel from Bangkok to Koh Mak: Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

How to Travel from Bangkok to Koh Mak: Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Traveler's Compass
Aug 15, 2025By Traveler's Compass

Travel from Bangkok to Koh Mak easily with combined bus and ferry services or fly to Trat and take a speedboat. Enjoy a smooth journey to this serene island paradise in 6-7 hours.

Koh Mak, a serene island located in eastern Thailand, offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking unspoiled beaches and laid-back charm. For first-time visitors, getting to Koh Mak from Bangkok can seem complex, but with the right information, the journey is straightforward. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of all available travel options.

1. Combined Bus/Van and Ferry Package (Most Convenient Option)

This is the most popular and traveler-friendly method of reaching Koh Mak from Bangkok.

Overview:

  • Travel involves a bus or van transfer from Bangkok to the Trat coast (Laem Sok or Laem Ngop pier), followed by a ferry or speedboat to Koh Mak.
  • Tour operators such as Boonsiri High Speed Ferries offer all-in-one tickets covering both land and sea transportation.

Departure Location in Bangkok:

  • Most services depart from the Khao San Road area, notably from Boonsiri’s office near Tanee Road.

Schedule and Duration:

  • Departure Times: Typically 05:00–06:00 and 08:00 daily.
  • Bus/Van to pier: 5–6 hours.
  • Ferry/Speedboat to Koh Mak: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
  • Total travel time: Approximately 6–7 hours.

Ticket Price:

  • Ranges between THB 750 to THB 1,200 depending on the operator and time of booking.

Booking Tips:

  • Tickets can be purchased online in advance via reputable platforms such as SmartEnPlus.
  • Arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before departure.

2. Flight from Bangkok to Trat + Boat Transfer

This is the fastest, though more expensive, option to reach Koh Mak.

Air Travel:

  • Airline: Bangkok Airways operates daily flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Trat Airport (TDX).
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Land & Sea Transfer:

  • From Trat Airport, a taxi or shared minivan can take you to Laem Ngop Pier (~20 km, ~30 minutes).
  • Speedboats depart regularly from the pier to Koh Mak.
  • Boat Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Total Travel Time:

  • Approximately 3–4 hours (excluding waiting time).

Cost Estimate:

  • Flight: THB 2,500 to THB 4,000 (book early to secure lower fares).
  • Taxi to pier: Approx. THB 500.
  • Boat fare: THB 500–700.

3. Independent Bus/Van + Ferry Travel

Adventurous travelers may opt to arrange each leg separately.

Steps:

  1. Bus from Bangkok to Trat: Take a government or private bus from Ekkamai or Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
    • Duration: 5–6 hours.
    • Fare: THB 250–300.
  2. Songthaew or taxi to the pier: 20–30 minutes.
  3. Ferry or speedboat to Koh Mak: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Note:

  • While slightly cheaper, this method requires more coordination and may result in longer layovers or missed connections.

4. Island-Hopping Routes (Via Koh Chang or Koh Kood)

For those exploring nearby islands:

  • Koh Mak is accessible by speedboat from Koh Chang and Koh Kood.
  • Inter-island transfers operate regularly during the high season (November to May).

Duration:

  • Typically 30–45 minutes per leg.

Additional Tips for Travelers

  • Best Season to Travel: November to April offers calm seas and predictable ferry schedules.
  • Packing: Bring sun protection, light clothing, and motion sickness tablets if sensitive to boat travel.
  • Connectivity: While Koh Mak is tranquil, mobile data and Wi-Fi are available in most accommodations.
  • ATM Access: Bring sufficient cash; ATMs are limited on the island.

FAQs

  1. What is the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Koh Mak?
    The fastest method is flying to Trat, then taking a speedboat. The total journey can be as short as 3–4 hours.
  2. What is the cheapest way to get to Koh Mak from Bangkok?
    Taking a public bus to Trat and then a ferry is the most budget-friendly option, costing as little as THB 750 in total.
  3. Where do I buy combined tickets for bus and ferry to Koh Mak?
    Tickets are available online via SmartEnPlus or at local travel agencies in Bangkok, especially near Khao San Road.
  4. Are there daily departures from Bangkok to Koh Mak?
    Yes, most operators run services daily, particularly in high season.
  5. Is the ferry to Koh Mak safe during the rainy season?
    Services may be limited during monsoon months (June–October), so always check in advance.
  6. Can I bring luggage on the ferry?
    Yes, standard baggage (up to 20kg) is included; oversized items may incur additional fees.
  7. Are there restaurants or rest stops during the bus journey?
    Yes, most bus services include a mid-journey rest stop with food and bathroom facilities.
  8. What pier do ferries to Koh Mak leave from?
    Laem Sok and Laem Ngop are the main departure piers near Trat.
  9. Is it necessary to book ferry tickets in advance?
    During peak travel periods (e.g., Thai holidays, December-January), pre-booking is highly recommended.
  10. Can I continue to Koh Kood or Koh Chang from Koh Mak?
    Yes, inter-island speedboats connect Koh Mak with both Koh Kood and Koh Chang during high season.

With a bit of planning, getting from Bangkok to Koh Mak can be a smooth and even enjoyable journey. Whether you prefer speed or savings, there’s a transportation option to suit every traveler.

For a Complete Travel Guide

For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: