Get away from it all, travel to Koh Tao!

Posted by admin on January 7th, 2008 filed in sightseeing, Tourist tips

In Thai language Koh Tao means turtle island. Positioned in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is one of the most idyllic diving playgrounds in Thailand. The island is a great destination for divers who wish to practice their passion in a more peaceful environment away from the busy tourist hot spots like Samui.

 

The only way to reach Koh Tao is by boat. The rather difficult accessibility explains probably why this gorgeous island is not yet invaded by huge crowds of holidaymakers. How to get to the island by boat depends on from which destinations visitors are travelling from.

 

If you stay in the southern part of Thailand, than you should take a ferry which departs from the mainland in Suratthani. This sea voyage lasts about three hours. Departing from Koh Pha Ngan, the ferry will complete the trip in about 60 minutes while passengers leaving from Samui have to spend about 90 minutes of travel time onboard before the vessel reaches its final destination. Tourists also have the option to travel from Suratthani by the overnight ferry service. The ferry usually departs around 11pm and arrives at Koh Tao next day in the early morning. However, the boats which operate the trip aren’t exactly advanced ships. These old cargo ships are facilitated with limited basic amenities so you are recommended to show up early and occupy the most possible comfortable position for your mattress. Also bring along an inflatable life jacket, who knows you might need it!

 

If you are approaching from the north then Chumphon should be the destination from which where to sail to Koh Tao. There are several agents here selling boat tickets. However, make sure you buy the right ticket as a number of different boat types operate the journey. Some vessels complete the crossing within 90 minutes while other (cheaper) crafts navigate tormenting slow with journey times of around five hours!

 

On Koh Samui there’s the availability of travelling onboard a daytrip diving charter. This kind of transportation will bring you within an hour to Koh Tao as these vessels are fast cruising speed boats. However, if all of the before mentioned transport options, offer levels of comfort that aren’t seem to be satisfying, the Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran is most likely what you are looking for. Travelling by this modern vessel is possible from departure points in Chumphon along with Koh Pha Ngan and Samui. This service is available twice daily. Tickets can be pre-booked via the internet.           

 

When you finally reach the pier at Koh Tao, you should definitely not miss some mind-boggling snorkelling at the pretty Shark Bay and be mesmerized by the spectacular sunset, which is best seen from the island’s best known Thipimarn restaurant. Also, if you have the time, try to explore the entire island on foot because this way you’ll enjoy the island to the fullest.

 

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