Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

Thailand’s Expressway Authority (EXAT) has concluded its study into the 74-billion-baht Samui Bridge project, with construction scheduled to begin in 2029 and the route expected to open by late 2033. The 37.41-kilometre expressway will cut travel time between the mainland and Koh Samui from two hours by ferry to just 20 minutes. Motorcycles will be prohibited from using the bridge due to safety concerns.

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EXAT Governor Surachet Laophulsuk chaired the third public hearing on 13 February 2026 at the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, Koh Samui, under Surat Thani Rajabhat University. The meeting presented findings on engineering feasibility, economics, finance and environmental impact. The project, known as the “Koh Samui Expressway Connection”, carries an estimated investment of 74 billion baht and is projected to generate 400 billion baht in circulating economic value over 30 years.

The route will begin at kilometre 14+500 on Highway 4142 in Don Sak district, Surat Thani, pass through Khanom district in Nakhon Si Thammarat, and connect to Highway 4170 on Koh Samui. It will comprise four traffic lanes and feature a 22-kilometre cable-stayed sea bridge with a navigational clearance of at least 50 metres to accommodate large vessels in line with international standards. The expressway will operate 24 hours a day, addressing current limitations on access to and from the island.

A willingness-to-pay survey found that most motorists would accept a toll of 1,000–1,200 baht per four-wheeled vehicle. EXAT said the bridge will also carry electricity, water supply and telecommunications systems to strengthen infrastructure security on Koh Samui. The alignment passes through a Class 5 watershed area, with authorities stating there will be no impact on water sources and that strict dust and noise mitigation measures will be enforced during construction.

Land expropriation has been identified as a primary concern among residents. EXAT said clear boundary lines will be set and affected landowners will receive compensation based on official appraisals and current market prices, with a formal appeals process in place.

Surachet said the bridge would improve quality of life, particularly for emergency medical transfers after 8pm when ferry services cease. He confirmed motorcycles will not be permitted on the structure, citing strong sea winds at heights exceeding 50 metres, equivalent to 15–20 storeys, which pose accident risks. Alternatives under consideration include motorcycle transport services or continued ferry use.

Kaoded reported that this year, EXAT will submit the project to its board and the Ministry of Transport. An Environmental Impact Assessment will follow, with Cabinet approval targeted for 2027 before proceeding to a public-private partnership investment process.

Key Takeaways

• Construction of the 74-billion-baht Samui Bridge is planned to begin in 2029, with opening expected in late 2033.

• The 37.41-kilometre route will reduce mainland–Koh Samui travel time to 20 minutes and operate 24 hours daily.

• Motorcycles will be banned from the bridge due to safety risks from strong sea winds at elevations above 50 metres.

Join the discussion?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now Kaoded 14 Feb 2026

Most Thais will continue to use the ferries if motor bikes are excluded as they won’t be able to afford the toll costs it should either be free or a much lower toll fee

I hope the construction of the bridge goes as smooth safe and quick as Rama II.

Going to Samui isn't worth the Q'ing time & duration of the ferry ride. Driving, I might actually visit again, just out of curiosity, unless of course ...