Thailand is moving ahead with plans for a major cruise terminal on Koh Samui, with the 12.17-billion-baht development expected to strengthen the island’s position as a leading regional destination for international cruise tourism.
The proposed facility will be designed to receive large cruise ships and accommodate between 200,000 and 400,000 passengers each year. It is also projected to handle around 240 cruise calls annually once operations begin.
Supervised by the Marine Department, the terminal is one of 262 major transport projects planned by the Transport Ministry for 2027. Together, the projects represent a combined investment of approximately 229.76 billion baht.
The Koh Samui terminal will occupy a total area of 47 rai, consisting of 15 rai of land and 32 rai of offshore space. Authorities say the development will improve the island’s maritime infrastructure while supporting the continued expansion of Thailand’s cruise industry.
Private Sector To Invest THB12 billion
The project is expected to be developed through a public-private partnership under the PPP Net Cost model. A private-sector partner will be responsible for constructing, managing and operating the terminal throughout a 30-year concession period.
Of the estimated 12.17-billion-baht investment, the government will contribute around 148.58 million baht, while the private partner will provide approximately 12.02 billion baht.
The private investment includes about 6.27 billion baht for construction and equipment. A further 5.75 billion baht will cover system installation, operations and maintenance over the duration of the contract.
Under the proposed arrangement, the government would reimburse infrastructure investment costs over a period of 10 years.
Cabinet Approval Expected in 2027
The proposal is currently being reviewed by the Transport Ministry and is expected to be submitted to the transport minister for approval in principle before being forwarded to the Cabinet.
Applications involving land managed by relevant state agencies, including the Royal Forest Department, will be processed alongside the project’s approval procedures.
According to the preliminary schedule, Cabinet approval is targeted for 2027, followed by the selection of a private partner through a tender in 2028. Construction is expected to begin shortly afterwards, with the terminal scheduled to open in 2032.
A feasibility study estimates that the terminal could generate around 46 billion baht in economic value over its 30-year operating period. The project is also projected to deliver an economic rate of return of more than 15%.
