Koh Samui Bridge: Seabed Drilling Begins, Shaping Future Travel
Koh Samui, a jewel of Thailand’s Gulf, is one step closer to mainland connection thanks to a groundbreaking bridge project. Seabed test drilling began on Monday, February 11, 2025, marking a significant milestone in connecting the island with Surat Thani province. This crucial initial phase—a geographical survey—will pave the way for construction of the long-awaited Samui sea bridge.
The Koh Samui branch of the Marine Office, under Acting Director Adul Ralukemul, issued a navigational warning to ensure maritime safety during drilling. The designated drilling zone, marked by illuminated buoys, extends from southern Koh Samui district to neighboring Khanom district in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The precise coordinates are 09°19'15.19"N, 009°49'05.59"E to 09°24'18.28"N, 009°57'09.47"E. Vessels must maintain a 300-meter safety perimeter.
This intensive seabed survey, expected to last 140 days, will identify the optimal bridge foundation location. The resulting data will be invaluable in determining the feasibility and engineering requirements. Surachet Laophunsuk, Governor of the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat), the project’s leader, emphasized the exploratory phase’s importance.
Beyond the technical aspects, Exat is engaging the public through hearings to gather perspectives and address concerns. The proposed four-lane bridge will drastically reduce travel time between the island and the mainland. Currently, the ferry journey takes several hours and costs 760 baht per person with a vehicle. The bridge is projected to reduce travel time to 40 minutes by car.
Preliminary estimates suggest a toll of approximately 700 baht per car—slightly less than the current ferry cost—offering a more economical and efficient travel option. This, combined with reduced travel time, will benefit residents and tourists, stimulating economic growth and improving accessibility to this island paradise.
The commencement of seabed drilling represents a tangible step towards bridging Koh Samui and the mainland. The project’s progress will be closely monitored throughout its development, promising transformative impacts on regional transportation and connectivity. This ambitious undertaking has the potential to reshape Koh Samui’s future, ushering in a new era of accessibility and economic prosperity.
