Fastest and cheapest way to go from Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui by Land.

[jingjai9]

I will be landing at Surat Thani Airport around 2:30 in the afternoon on a weekday later this month. Can anyone tell me the best way to navigate from the airport to the ferry pier on Koh Samui? My final destination is Chaweng Beach, would appreciate any tips. What is the usual time for traveling from the Surat Thani airport to the Ferry Terminal? Also, I read on the websites that the ferries to Koh Samui are available virtually every hour until early evening. I hope this is correct. From my research I understand there are really no accommodations at the ferry terminals. 
Finally, what is the best way to negotiate a ride from the Ferry Terminal on Koh Samui to Chaweng, shared mini van, car taxi, bus??????
Thanks,

I appreciate the members of this forum. They have been so informative in the past.
 

[Swimfan]

Buy a fully inclusive ticket that includes Plane, bus and ferry to Island. Then minivan to hotel in Chaweng. That's the cheapest possible way. Otherwise you will have to buy separate bus and ferry ticket on arrival at ST or online prior to arrival.

[Mentors65]

Panthip bus waits at the Airport.