Koh Yao Noi to Surat Thani: Is a direct route possible?

Hi everyone, 11/30/2025, what’s the shortest route from Koh Yao Noi to Surat Thani, and is it possible to get there without going through Phuket and Krabi? P.S. Should I buy tickets in advance via Rome2Rio, 12Go Asia, etc., or at the pier? Thanks in advance for your replies, Jacques from Brussels

Hi there,

Even though I’m not familiar with this area and since no one more knowledgeable has replied, after some research it looks like the geographically shortest route would be via Phang Nga, following these steps: Koh Yao Noi to Phang Nga: 1 boat per day at 7:30 AM (check with your accommodation the day before), Phang Nga to Surat Thani: buses every 2 hours until 5:30 PM (also serves Khao Sok National Park). No need to book in advance.

Nb. Should I buy the tickets in advance via Rome2Rio, GO Asia...

Definitely not—those sites will route you through Phuket or Krabi with prohibitively expensive fares.

Hi, To get to Ko Yao Noi, there used to be a shorter option with more frequent service:

Get to Krabi first, then Thalane Pier: one or two long tail boats every hour, taking 40 minutes. Worth double-checking—this was about ten years ago.

Check the last page of this travel journal: