Quick Answer
The best way from Center Point Pier (Koh Chang) to Trat Airport (TDX) is a combined ferry + shared minivan ticket: it takes 1.5–2 hours, costs 250–350 THB (7–10 USD) per person, and offers the best balance of speed, cost and convenience. For maximum speed, take a ferry + private taxi (1.5 hours, 400–600 THB / 12–18 USD). The most budget option — ferry + public bus + songthaew — takes up to 2.5 hours but costs only 100–150 THB (3–5 USD).
🚕 Ferry + Taxi / Private Car — Fastest & Most Flexible
This is the fastest door-to-door option from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport. You take a standard passenger ferry from the pier to the mainland, then a private taxi or car picks you up and drives you directly to the airport terminal.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Step 1: Board the public ferry at Center Point Pier (Koh Chang). Ferries run daily from 06:00 to 19:00, roughly every 30–60 minutes depending on the season.
- Step 2: Cross to either Laem Ngop Pier or Ao Thammachat Pier on the mainland. Journey time: 30–45 minutes.
- Step 3: Meet your pre-booked taxi or private car at the pier exit. The drive to Trat Airport takes 30–40 minutes (35 km).
- Total time: 1.5–2 hours (including waiting for taxi).
- Total cost: Ferry 80–100 THB (2.5–3 USD) per person + taxi 300–500 THB (9–15 USD) per car (up to 4 passengers).
Cost Details
| Item | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public ferry (one way) | 80–100 | 2.5–3 | Per person; children under 6 half price |
| Taxi from pier to airport | 300–500 | 9–15 | Per car (1–4 pax); fixed price from taxi stands |
| Private car (pre-booked) | 400–600 | 12–18 | Includes meet & greet; book via hotel or app |
| Total per person (solo) | 380–600 | 11–18 | Ferry + taxi alone |
| Total per person (group of 4) | 155–225 | 5–7 | Ferry + shared taxi cost |
When to Choose This Option
- You are traveling with a group (3–4 people) — cost per person becomes very reasonable.
- You have heavy or bulky luggage (surfboards, large suitcases).
- You are in a hurry and want the shortest possible total journey time.
- Your flight is early morning or late afternoon when shared minivans may not run.
Where to Book
Taxis can be hired directly at the pier exit or pre-booked through your hotel, local travel agencies, or platforms like 12Go.asia. Pre-booking is recommended during peak season (November–February).
Source: Trat Airport official site & local ferry operators — current as of 2025.
🚐 Ferry + Shared Minivan — Best Value & Most Popular
The combined ferry + shared minivan ticket is the most popular choice among travelers heading from Koh Chang to Trat Airport. It offers a great balance of cost, speed and convenience without the need to arrange separate transport.
How It Works
- Step 1: Purchase a combined ticket at Center Point Pier, your hotel, or any travel agency on Koh Chang. Price: 250–350 THB (7–10 USD) per person.
- Step 2: Board the ferry (same public ferry as other passengers).
- Step 3: Upon arrival at the mainland pier, look for the minivan operator with your ticket brand (e.g., Koh Chang Minivan, Trat Airport Shuttle).
- Step 4: The minivan departs once full (typically 8–12 passengers). Journey to Trat Airport: 35–45 minutes.
- Total time: 1.5–2 hours (including waiting for van to fill).
Cost Breakdown
| Ticket Type | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry + minivan (one way) | 250–350 | 7–10 | Ferry crossing + shared van to airport |
| Ferry + minivan (round trip) | 450–650 | 13–19 | Return from airport to pier on departure day |
| Child ticket (3–12 years) | 150–200 | 4–6 | Half price on most operators |
Advantages & Disadvantages
- ✅ Pros: Simple, one payment; no need to negotiate; reliable during daylight hours; luggage included.
- ❌ Cons: Fixed departure times; may wait 15–30 minutes for van to fill; less flexible than a taxi.
Recommended Operators
- Koh Chang Minivan Service — operates daily from 06:00 to 18:00. Book at any tour desk on the island.
- Trat Airport Shuttle Co. — runs 4–5 departures per day aligned with Bangkok Airways flight schedule.
- 12Go.asia — online booking platform with instant confirmation: book here.
Tip: During low season (May–October), minivan frequency drops — book a day in advance to secure your seat.
Source: Koh Chang tourism office & 12Go.asia — verified March 2025.
🚌 Ferry + Public Bus / Songthaew — Most Budget-Friendly
For backpackers and budget travelers, taking the public ferry + local bus/songthaew is the cheapest way to reach Trat Airport. It requires one transfer in Trat city and takes a bit longer, but the savings can be significant.
Step-by-Step (Budget Route)
- Step 1: Take the public ferry from Center Point Pier to Laem Ngop Pier (80–100 THB / 2.5–3 USD, 30–45 min).
- Step 2: At Laem Ngop, find a songthaew (shared pickup truck) or local bus heading to Trat city center. Fare: 40–60 THB (1.2–1.8 USD), journey time: 40–50 minutes.
- Step 3: From Trat city center (usually dropped near the main market or bus station), take another songthaew or motorcycle taxi to Trat Airport. Fare: 40–60 THB (1.2–1.8 USD), journey time: 15–20 minutes.
- Total time: 2–2.5 hours (including waiting between connections).
- Total cost: 100–150 THB (3–5 USD) per person.
Cost Comparison
| Leg | Mode | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pier → Mainland | Public ferry | 80–100 | 2.5–3 | 30–45 min |
| Laem Ngop → Trat city | Songthaew / bus | 40–60 | 1.2–1.8 | 40–50 min |
| Trat city → Airport | Songthaew / moto-taxi | 40–60 | 1.2–1.8 | 15–20 min |
| Total | — | 160–220 | 5–6.5 | 1.5–2 h |
When to Choose This Option
- You are on a tight budget and have extra time.
- You are traveling light (backpack only).
- You want to experience local transport and don't mind a bit of adventure.
Important Notes
- Songthaews and local buses do not run on a fixed schedule — they depart when full. Expect some waiting time.
- The last songthaew from Trat city to the airport leaves around 17:00–18:00. Plan accordingly for late flights.
- This option is not recommended for those with large suitcases or mobility issues.
Source: Trat public transport info & local tourism board — updated 2025.
🚤 Private Speedboat / Charter — Premium & Direct
For those seeking maximum privacy, speed and comfort, a private speedboat charter is the ultimate way to travel from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport. This option bypasses the public ferry entirely and takes you directly from the pier to a small dock near the airport.
What to Expect
- Direct route: The speedboat departs from Center Point Pier and heads to a private dock on the mainland near Laem Ngop or Ban Khlong Son — much closer to Trat Airport than the public ferry piers.
- Duration: The boat ride takes just 20–30 minutes (compared to 30–45 min for the public ferry).
- Onward transfer: A private car meets you at the dock and drives you to the airport in 20–30 minutes.
- Total time: 45 minutes – 1 hour door-to-door.
Cost Breakdown
| Service | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Capacity / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private speedboat (1–4 pax) | 3,000–5,000 | 90–150 | Includes boat + car to airport |
| Private speedboat (5–8 pax) | 5,000–8,000 | 150–240 | Larger boat + minivan at dock |
| Add-on: VIP lounge at pier | 300–500 | 9–15 | Air-conditioned waiting area |
When to Choose This Option
- You are a group of 4+ and the cost per person becomes comparable to a taxi ferry.
- You are on a tight schedule (e.g., connecting to a flight from Trat to Bangkok).
- You want a luxury or romantic experience (honeymoon, special occasion).
- You need to avoid crowds or have privacy concerns.
How to Book
Private speedboat charters can be arranged through luxury hotels on Koh Chang, specialized tour operators, or online platforms. Popular providers include Koh Chang Speedboat Co. and Trat Airport VIP Transfer. Always book at least 24 hours in advance.
Source: Koh Chang boat charter operators — rates as of 2025.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison — At a Glance
Use this comparison table to choose the transport option that best fits your budget, schedule and travel style.
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost per Person (THB) | Cost per Person (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry + Taxi (private) | 1.5–2 h | 380–600 | 11–18 | Speed, groups, heavy luggage |
| Ferry + Shared Minivan ⭐ | 1.5–2 h | 250–350 | 7–10 | Best value; most travelers |
| Ferry + Public Bus / Songthaew | 2–2.5 h | 100–150 | 3–5 | Budget, backpackers |
| Private Speedboat + Car | 45 min – 1 h | 3,000–5,000 | 90–150 | Luxury, privacy, time-critical |
⭐ Recommended: The ferry + shared minivan is the best all-around option for most travelers, offering a great balance of cost, speed and convenience.
Where to Buy Tickets
- At Center Point Pier: Multiple ticket booths sell combined ferry+minivan tickets. Compare prices before buying.
- Online: 12Go.asia and Bookaway offer instant digital tickets.
- Hotel tour desks: Most hotels on Koh Chang can arrange transfers — often at the same price as the pier.
Note: Prices are for one-way travel and may vary by season. Always confirm with the operator.
💡 Traveler Tips & Experience — Insider Advice
Real-world tips from frequent travelers to make your journey from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport smoother, cheaper and less stressful.
1. Timing Is Everything
- Ferry schedules change with the season. In high season (Nov–Feb), ferries run every 30 min from 06:00 to 19:00. In low season (May–Oct), frequency drops to every 60–90 min. Always check the latest schedule at the pier or your hotel.
- For early flights (before 10:00 AM): Take the first ferry of the day (around 06:00). Pre-book a taxi or minivan the night before to avoid delays.
- For late flights (after 16:00): Confirm that your minivan or bus still runs — many last departures are around 17:00–18:00.
2. Luggage & Baggage
- Travel light if using public bus/songthaew. Space is limited and large suitcases may incur an extra 20–40 THB (0.6–1.2 USD) fee.
- Use Takkyubin (luggage delivery) for heavy bags. Some hotels on Koh Chang offer luggage forwarding to Trat Airport or Bangkok. Ask your reception. Cost: approximately 200–400 THB (6–12 USD) per bag.
- Speedboat charters have strict weight limits — usually 10–15 kg per person. Excess luggage may be refused or charged extra.
3. Booking & Payment
- Book combined tickets a day in advance during peak season (December–February, Chinese New Year, Songkran). Walk-up seats may sell out.
- Carry cash. Most ticket booths and songthaew drivers do not accept credit cards. ATMs are available at Center Point Pier but charge a 200 THB (6 USD) fee.
- Compare prices at the pier. Different booths may offer different rates for the same minivan service. Negotiate gently.
4. Comfort & Amenities
- The ferry is basic. It's an open-air vessel with bench seating. Bring sunscreen, a hat and water. The crossing can be choppy in windy weather.
- Shared minivans are air-conditioned but can be cramped with 12 passengers. If you're tall or claustrophobic, opt for a taxi instead.
- Trat Airport is very small — there's one coffee shop and a small convenience store. Eat before you arrive or bring snacks.
5. Special Situations
- Traveling with children: The ferry is safe, but hold onto small children on open decks. Minivans have seatbelts — request a child seat if needed (rarely available).
- Mobility issues: The ferry requires stepping on and off a gangplank. Inform the crew if you need assistance. Pre-book a taxi with a driver who can help with wheelchairs.
- Peak season warning: During Christmas–New Year and Songkran (April), ferry queues can extend 30–45 minutes. Arrive at the pier at least 1 hour before your intended ferry.
Sources: Koh Chang travel forums, TripAdvisor reviews & local operator interviews — compiled March 2025.
❓ FAQs: Center Point Pier to Trat Airport — Everything You Need to Know
Is there a direct ferry from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport?
No, there is no direct ferry. You must take a ferry from Center Point Pier to either Laem Ngop Pier or Ao Thammachat Pier on the mainland, then continue by taxi, minivan or bus to Trat Airport (about 30–40 minutes by road).
How long does it take to get from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport?
Total travel time is 1.5–2.5 hours depending on the mode: ferry + taxi (~1.5 h), ferry + shared minivan (~1.5–2 h), or ferry + public bus (~2–2.5 h). This includes the 30–45 minute ferry crossing and 30–45 minute road transfer.
How much does it cost from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport?
Costs range from 100–150 THB (3–5 USD) for the most budget option (ferry + public bus) to 400–600 THB (12–18 USD) for a taxi. A shared minivan combined ticket costs 200–350 THB (6–10 USD). Private speedboat charters start at 3,000 THB (90 USD).
What is the best way to get from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport?
The best balance of speed, cost and convenience is the combined ferry + shared minivan ticket (250–350 THB / 7–10 USD). It takes about 1.5 hours and eliminates the need to arrange separate transport. For maximum speed, take a ferry + private taxi (400–600 THB).
Can I book a combined ferry+transfer ticket from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport?
Yes, many tour operators on Koh Chang sell combined tickets that include the ferry crossing and a shared minivan or taxi to Trat Airport. These can be booked at your hotel, at travel agencies near Center Point Pier, or online through platforms like 12Go.asia. Prices start at 250 THB (7 USD).
Is there a public bus from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport?
No direct public bus. However, you can take the public ferry to Laem Ngop Pier, then catch a local songthaew (shared pickup truck) or bus to Trat city center (40–50 minutes, 40–60 THB), and from there take another songthaew or motorcycle taxi to Trat Airport (15 minutes, 40–60 THB). This is the cheapest but most time-consuming option.
What time should I leave Center Point Pier for a flight from Trat Airport?
You should leave Center Point Pier at least 3 hours before your flight departure to allow for the ferry crossing, transfer, and check-in at Trat Airport. For example, if your flight is at 12:00 PM, aim to catch a ferry by 8:30–9:00 AM. Trat Airport is small but check-in closes 30 minutes before departure.
Is it possible to go from Center Point Pier to Trat Airport by private transfer?
Yes, you can arrange a private transfer that includes a taxi or private car waiting for you at the mainland pier. This is the most convenient option for families, groups of 3–4, or travelers with heavy luggage. Cost ranges from 400–600 THB (12–18 USD) for a car, plus ferry tickets (80–100 THB per person).