The journey, NOT the destination! 22 Hours From Bangkok to Samui

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  • Опубликовано: 21 дек 2024

Комментарии • 84

  • @TigW007
    @TigW007 7 месяцев назад +9

    Only someone who has edited RUclips videos can appreciate the amount of work you put into editing this. I'm guessing 12 hours or more. Thank You🎉 I took this same boat when it went from Songkla to Rayong with my car on board. I'm glad I did it, but once was enough. Caution to people, though, this isn't a cruise ship. You will feel the waves! 😫

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +4

      I appreciate comments like this, and you definitely know your subject. Yes, it probably did take about 12 hours to put together! It's lovely when someone notices. Thanks!
      I think I was lucky with the weather. Sea was flat and hardly any movement. Not sure I'd fancy it in rough seas!

    • @Goldfinger555
      @Goldfinger555 7 месяцев назад +3

      The beauty of being retired and not on a rigid schedule anymore. Love it! I’ve looked at this option before and glad they have restarted their schedule but not sure if I’ll partake. Thank you, however, for showing us what it’s like.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks, Rick. Definitely for those with time on their hands, like me! The other big benefit is being able to take a car, I think. If it was a beautiful summer's day, I'm sure you'd love it. But, of course, it's not for everyone! Thanks, again!

  • @WanderlustReports
    @WanderlustReports 6 месяцев назад +2

    I love the idea of taking the boat to Koh Samui. Currently on Koh Samui, I must admit I took the plane from U-Tapao.
    Beautiful and quite deserted island at the moment.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  6 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks. I flew back after making the video. I think going both ways probably takes too much time. But I'd highly recommend it as a one off or experience, or anyone transporting a car 😀

  • @robertmehring5135
    @robertmehring5135 4 месяца назад +2

    Loved it!!!! Can't wait to go myself!

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  4 месяца назад

      I'm sure you'll love it, Robert!

  • @GarNelson1
    @GarNelson1 7 месяцев назад +3

    Taking the Seahorse and doing a drive back is one of my Thailand bucket list items. Thanks for the reminder.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +2

      That sounds great! To do a journey like that without flying would be really cool. Must admit, I'd fancy taking a car on the ferry and using it to tour Samui before heading back mainly by road. That's a plan!

  • @minimalistation
    @minimalistation 7 месяцев назад +5

    Camera quality just amazing.............Tbh, I'm struggling to see the value for a one person capsule with communal showers for 3500b.I guess there are the scenic 2 hour views on the river..................loadsa pros for some wanting a mini cruise though......fun and entertaining vid as always.keep working on the dad jokes............!!

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Thanks for your positive comment. Those views were just made for filming! Originally, I planned to book a seat for 1500 baht. But they closed that option just prior to my trip. The capsules were only about half full when I went. Reduce the price to (say) 2000 baht and sell out makes more money for them, and feels better value for customers! Dad jokes is a fair description 😀

    • @JimmyCrangle
      @JimmyCrangle 3 месяца назад

      It is much cheaper than Bangkok airways and also includes a bed for a night. Great way to travel to Samui

    • @anthonydowling3356
      @anthonydowling3356 2 месяца назад

      @@balloonchaser I just looked and they are now B3,000 ,going in mid December for a Capsule ,so a little cheaper than you payed .

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  2 месяца назад

      @anthonydowling3356 Thanks for the update, Anthony. To be honest, I do think they'd benefit from a cheaper entry point fare for people without a car. Before I went, they had a section with just chairs, but they withdrew that. It's a great experience and let's hope they continue to knock bits off the price!

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  2 месяца назад

      ​@@JimmyCrangleOnly just noticed this comment. I think that's spot on! 😊

  • @finnophilepodcast
    @finnophilepodcast 5 месяцев назад +1

    Your video inspired me to take this long journey and enjoy the stunning view. Thanks. Nice work

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  5 месяцев назад

      Thanks for your comment. I'm pleased you decided to try it for yourself! There are some great views to be seen!

  • @sandgroper1980
    @sandgroper1980 6 месяцев назад +1

    A beautiful relaxing way to travel. I have never been on a cruise but I own a fishing boat and being at sea is my "happy place" . I think my missus would love it too , not sure the daughter would though. I love Koh Samui and would definitely considering this journey. Thanks for letting us all in on another little gem BC 👍🏼🍻🇦🇺

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  6 месяцев назад +1

      My pleasure, SG! All I can say is I saw several families on board and never saw anyone complaining or looking bored. The kids looked like they were having a great adventure. I found the part going down the river to be absolutely fascinating!

  • @schlossjazz
    @schlossjazz 3 месяца назад +1

    i want to go on 15th but is already booked out...good job, thank you

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  3 месяца назад

      Thanks. I thought the next trip to Samui was 19th September, and they have a few capsules still available?

  • @JimmyCrangle
    @JimmyCrangle 3 месяца назад +3

    I sailed with them 3 times and it was excellent. Comfortable capsule type bed and good food. They do have to fix the internet. I don't know how much data i use so buying MB data is pointless. Let us buy time instead! Anyway, the most comfortable way to travel to Koh Samui and much cheaper than Bangkok airways.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  3 месяца назад

      I agree with you completely, Jimmy. Apart from the lack of free [or understandable] internet provision, the service is pretty much faultless!

    • @miratoncar8266
      @miratoncar8266 Месяц назад +1

      cheaper than bangkok airways??? really. in advance fly ticket around £50 thats dosnt seems to be cheaper. and comfortable.....1 hour fly or 22 hours on boring boat ( apart nice view some hours on Bangkok) deffo isnt most comfortable.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  Месяц назад +1

      @miratoncar8266 Currently, they are offering return fares for 5000 THB. But, I guess in truth, the services aren't really comparable. Either you want the speed of the flight or the slow travel on the boat. Thanks for your comment. .

  • @ajherby7820
    @ajherby7820 7 месяцев назад +2

    I like how you quote Waldo.. is he the one from "Where's Waldo?" Now there's a joke that's probably only amusing to myself!! Great video as usual. Definitely would consider taking that trip once I have some time on my hands.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      His name was Ralph Waldo Emerson, but known as Waldo. Where's Wally was a book series named by its British creator. The name was changed to Waldo for North American audiences. Why they chose that name, I have no idea! Thanks for the comment. If you get the chance, I'm sure you'd enjoy the ferry!

  • @PREPFORIT
    @PREPFORIT 7 месяцев назад +4

    Better a slow boat than a busy chaotic airport. I will definitely consider this option.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      I agree with you, PFI. If you have time available this way is much more civilised and relaxing!

    • @JimmyCrangle
      @JimmyCrangle 3 месяца назад +1

      Yes, it was fantastic. Did not feel like I was traveling at all

    • @miratoncar8266
      @miratoncar8266 Месяц назад

      chaotic airport)))))) really? in Thailand? someone like you make me laughing ))))

  • @peapaulofthailand6539
    @peapaulofthailand6539 7 месяцев назад +2

    Fancy you hanging around the Docking area of Bangkok 😉 those chimneys are a nightmare to build on boats I believe 🤣

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      I think I met Stan Collymore there once! Decent player for your team. Pretty rubbish for mine. Chim chiminey Chim chim cher-oo. We are the bar stewards in claret and blue...

  • @reggie5
    @reggie5 6 месяцев назад +1

    looks like a great option. a good tip is to download some youtube videos to your phone so you can watch them offline - there is usually a button icon on each video. i do this for the plane to BKK. in fact, you might even find you already have some there.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  6 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks, Reggie. That's a great tip. Everyone should follow that advice! Especially videos from this channel! 😂

  • @WalkingmanPattaya
    @WalkingmanPattaya 7 месяцев назад

    Brilliant sea voyage episode BC. Glad you enjoyed it. Good to hear some rooms fully booked as it looks very empty. OMG, no internet or Data out in the Gulf! What if you want to watch RUclips! 555 Visions of Titanic BC? Bring a friend with you or searching for a new HiSo friend on the ferry? Very interested, need to know where to stay and what to do on Koh Samui. Are you going to have another vlog on Koh Samui? Again, thank you for the great travel vlog .

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Thanks, Ric. Yes, it was really interesting, but, as you say, there weren't many people onboard. They only launched this service from it's new start point in Bangkok a few weeks ago, so I wanted to check it out!
      I did have concerns about titanic, I mean, you don't know if there's any icebergs off Samui! Probably more chance of that than me meeting a rich widow onboard anyway.
      I'd done a couple of videos on samui on my last trip. This time flew straight back!!

  • @johnMarnell-e7h
    @johnMarnell-e7h 7 месяцев назад +1

    I was expecting the bunk to be 300. 3500 must include travel. Did you do the voice for Hartley hare from Pipkins

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Yes, that's correct. All of the prices quoted include the travel. Until recently they had a VIP seat option for 1500 baht. But that section of the boat is now closed and the entry level option is 3500 (capsule plus transfer). I'll have to check out Hartley Hare. Was it a nice voice the hare had? 😀

  • @herrmeistermann2426
    @herrmeistermann2426 7 месяцев назад +1

    Looks awesome. Do they do minicruises packages, return tickets, back and forth? (or whatever you want to call it). Could be nice for an extended weekend holiday.
    Regarding safety, I am sure thai ferries are in better conditions than the Philippine ones.
    "To travel is to live" -H.C. Andersen.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks for you comment. I definitely got the impression that the ferry was well maintained. I'm not aware of any specific packages on offer. The ship returned to Bangkok 2 days after it'd arrival in Samui. I did the about taking it in both directions, but in the end I decided to fly back, not least because the weather turned!

  • @snitchy87
    @snitchy87 22 дня назад +1

    How far/ long is the pier from central bkk?

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  22 дня назад +1

      It's around 14 km from Central Bangkok, and you probably need to allow 30-40 minutes for a taxi ride. Obviously, it depends on the time of day, day of week.
      Check-in point at Kodang Saeng Thong Khao. Ratburana Road,
      Bangkok.

    • @snitchy87
      @snitchy87 22 дня назад +1

      ​@balloonchaser thanks bc. Definitely an option on my next trip.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  22 дня назад

      @snitchy87 Also, they reduced the prices after I travelled (hopefully a coincidence) so you might get a better deal. This weekend they ran a special trip to the Pattaya Fireworks Displays. Wish I known about it actually!

  • @farangtravels3956
    @farangtravels3956 7 месяцев назад +2

    Love your wacky video ideas, very original 🎈 🏃🏼

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Nice of you to say so! Wacky is definitely a compliment in my book! 😀

  • @bigbopper6311
    @bigbopper6311 7 месяцев назад +1

    fantastic job BC, great subject. Guess dinner was not black tie then.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Thanks, BB. There probably was a ballroom somewhere, but I was in the cheap seats!

  • @johnflynn4923
    @johnflynn4923 7 месяцев назад +1

    That was pretty cool - don't know if I could hack a capsule (probably wake everyone else up with my snoring!) but it's more or less the sea going version of the Orient Express :-)

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks, John. I think the gentle sound of the engines probably just about drowned out my snoring! Definitely some lovely views to film on this trip!

  • @mikereid1873
    @mikereid1873 7 месяцев назад

    Where do you keep your suitcase whilst sleeping in the pod?

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks for your question. I was travelling light so I kept my bag in the pod. I saw others leave bags on the steps (you can see them in the video). As the ferry wasn't full I also saw someone put bags in another vacant pod. But if that doesn't work for you, there are also lockers available for your stuff, or at least your valuables. I didn't see anyone use these, but you'd be advised to bring your own padlock and I think they also rent them from reception. Hope this makes sense!

  • @jariverro4696
    @jariverro4696 7 месяцев назад +1

    Great video. Very informative. Thx

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Hope it was useful. Thanks for the comment!

  • @rburns4048
    @rburns4048 7 месяцев назад +1

    Great video but you didn't post the bar prices :(

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks. I can tell you bottled local beer was 150 Baht, and bottled water was 25 Baht. Maybe that gives an idea for the other prices. Sorry!

    • @rburns4048
      @rburns4048 7 месяцев назад +1

      @@balloonchaser thanks! I checked their website but they have no menus online for food or drink

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      @rburns4048 They should tell that, really. I thought their prices were not bad and the food was decent.
      The coffees, teas, smoothies and Italian sodas were all 70-100 baht. Again, not the cheapest but it would have been a long swim to the nearest 7 Eleven 😀

    • @rburns4048
      @rburns4048 7 месяцев назад +1

      @@balloonchaser I agree! I suppose you could also stock up at 7 pre journey to save a few baht as well

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      @rburns4048 They always say "no outside food and drink", but I saw several people eating their own food! 🤫

  • @markdumbrell2618
    @markdumbrell2618 7 месяцев назад +1

    You here now?
    I just arrived and b Samui today 😀

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Hi Mark. Already returned to Bangkok (by air) unfortunately! Have a great time on Samui, mate!

    • @markdumbrell2618
      @markdumbrell2618 7 месяцев назад +1

      @@balloonchaser that’s unfortunate, I would have bought you a beer.
      I’ll be in Pattaya in June so try and buy you a beer then 🍺

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      @@markdumbrell2618 I'm looking forward to a free beer in June, then! Many thanks! 😀

  • @iandann8788
    @iandann8788 7 месяцев назад +1

    interesting vid ,thanks

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Thanks for your supportive comment, Ian.

  • @uwestark3959
    @uwestark3959 4 месяца назад +1

    The Seahorse ferry is a welcome alternative if you want travel with car between Bangkok and Koh Samui instead of taking the ferry between Donsak and Koh Samui and driving the road yourself. Well if you do this in one rush, you are faster but it’s exhausting. If you plan to stop and sleep in a hotel on the way you probably are not much faster.
    But I must criticize the WiFi. You can’t buy a flat rate, just some Mega or Gigabit, who knows how much you will need.
    Even the free Megabytes didn’t work very well. If this would work better and a WiFi flat rate would be available I would take the ferry every time when I take the car to Bangkok.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  4 месяца назад +1

      You make an excellent point about travelling with a car. Taking the seahorse ferry isn't really that slow compared with having to break overnight. And it's probably a lot less stressful on seahorse! I agree completely about the WiFi. The complimentary amount barely allowed me to scan my purchases onboard, and the additional amount I purchased was gone in minutes! Free WiFi would make a huge difference! Thanks!

  • @keith9970
    @keith9970 6 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks Balloon Chaser.....I checked with Oscar and he attributes T S Eliot with the quote

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  6 месяцев назад

      Thanks, Keith. Apparently TS Eliot said "The journey, not the destination matters," whilst Ralph Waldo Emerson said: "It's not the destination, it's the journey”. Can't remember what I said on the video - but I definitely wasn't the first to say it, that's for sure!! 😃 😊 Thanks a lot for your comment, mate!

  • @Russ12189
    @Russ12189 7 месяцев назад

    Some parallels to cruising.
    I would not see you cruising but hey. 1982 UTC

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      Villa cruising into Champions League! 2025 is the new 1982!

  • @scottnewton3089
    @scottnewton3089 7 месяцев назад +1

    Yes!
    With free Chang and 100 go go dancers 😅

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад

      I think I must have missed the free Chang!

  • @nujjarin
    @nujjarin 7 месяцев назад +1

    👍👍👍👍

  • @thecryptostrategist2433
    @thecryptostrategist2433 7 месяцев назад +1

    If you like boats, go for it. I doubt I could tolerate 2 hours on a boat, let alone 22. I also worry about safety on Thai boats. Didn't they have actual naval vessels that could not make it through a storm? it makes me worry about the state of their commercial fleet id even the military is incapable of handling bad weather.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  7 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks, David. I do quite like boats, but didn't think I'd enjoy such as long trip. In the event, it was really relaxing. I actually liked the trip down the river he most! They seemed pretty clued up on safety. Lots of notices and instructions around. They actually had a small electrical problem on the top deck shortly after departure, but it was dealt with in seconds. One of the safer forms of transport in Thailand, I'd venture!

  • @vgshwk
    @vgshwk 5 месяцев назад +1

    It would probably take that long by train or bus and ferry.

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  5 месяцев назад

      Thanks. I thunk that's right. Maybe overnight train to surat thani, wait for van and then fast ferry to samui. Wouldn't be a lot of difference in terms of total time. Good point 👍

  • @tolgaerdinc4914
    @tolgaerdinc4914 5 месяцев назад +1

    I will try this sunday 🤦‍♂️ samui > bangkok
    In capsule room 🫥🫣

    • @balloonchaser
      @balloonchaser  5 месяцев назад

      That's great! I'm sure you will have a nice trip!