Koh Chang: Can big infrastructure be the answer to reduce the 7-month low season?

Koh Chang is a beautiful island, and Thailand has been investing heavily into the Eastern Economic Corridor to support its struggling tourism. Could the tide finally be about to turn?

The Challenge: Long Low Season

Koh Chang faces a deep, recurring challenge: for nearly seven months each year, tourist numbers slump. Outside the high season, many resorts, restaurants and tour operators struggle to break even. The island’s remoteness, limited infrastructure, and reliance on ferries all compound the issue.

But now, a set of bold infrastructure projects could rewire that narrative.

Bridge to the Mainland — A Game Changer?

One of the most talked-about proposals is building a bridge linking Koh Chang to the mainland. Currently, all vehicle and passenger access relies on ferries (30–45 minutes under good conditions), with waits and delays especially bad during holidays.

The bridge is still in the planning stage: four route options are under consideration, and public hearings are underway. The Expressway Authority aims for construction to begin around 2029, with an opening possibly by 2033.

If built, the bridge could drastically cut travel time, reduce the friction of island access, and provide a more reliable connection for locals, tourists, and logistics — especially during off-peak months when ferry services are fewer or suspended.

There is, however, resistance: some locals and interest groups have voiced concerns over environmental impact, land rights, and how the route might affect coastal or agricultural zones.

Trat Airport: Gateway Expansion

On the air access front, Trat Airport is set for a major upgrade. Bangkok Airways (which owns and operates the airport) has committed to expanding it, with a budget of roughly 2.3 billion baht to enhance capacity and allow larger aircraft.

Key upgrades include extending the runway (currently about 1,800 m) to approximately 2,100 m, and adding a new terminal with expanded passenger handling capacity.  These changes would enable the airport to host jet aircraft (e.g. Airbus A320 / Boeing 737), which would open up direct connections from more markets.

The plan is to phase construction starting around 2025, with full completion aimed by about 2027.

With better air access, Koh Chang becomes more appealing for shorter-stay tourists and those less willing to endure long travel times via ferry. It also raises the bar on convenience — a factor many travelers increasingly prioritize.

Blue Haven Bay Marina Expansion: From 16 to 63 Berths

On the island itself, Blue Haven Bay (Siam Royal View) is one of the biggest development stories. The site already includes beachfront resort facilities, private villas, and mixed-use infrastructure.

One of its key upgrades is the expansion of its marina. The plan is to increase the capacity from 16 to 63 berths, turning it into a more significant yachting hub. (Note: I was unable to locate a public source confirming those exact berth numbers, so you may wish to double-check the developer’s materials for precision.)

With expanded marina capacity, the island can better attract yacht and boating tourists, which are generally higher-spending and tend to travel outside the core peak months. It can also support a broader marine ecosystem: services, maintenance, provisioning, charters, and more local maritime business.

The marina expansion, when paired with improved access (bridge + air), could make Koh Chang a more viable all-year boating destination in the Gulf.

Conclusion

Koh Chang stands at a crossroads. For decades, its 7-month low season has been a hurdle many hoped could someday be lowered—or even eliminated. With bold proposals for a bridge, major expansion of Trat Airport, and a significantly enlarged marina at Blue Haven, the pieces are now being placed to support that shift.

It is looking good for Koh Chang.