Island Hopping from Phuket: Ferries, Piers and Prices

Which pier goes where

• Rassada Pier, on the east coast a few kilometres from Phuket Town: the main pier for ferries and speedboats to Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, Koh Lanta and other mainland destinations.
• Bang Rong Pier, in the north-east: boats to Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai.
• Chalong Pier, in the south: speedboats and tours to Coral Island, Racha Yai and Racha Noi, as well as many day trips.
• Ao Po Grand Marina in the north-east, used for some resort and private transfers.

Rassada is roughly 35 km from the airport, about 40 to 55 minutes by car, and a ride from Phuket Town is commonly quoted at about 100 to 150 baht by app. See the getting around guide for airport transfers.

Typical prices and journey times

Prices vary by operator, season and booking channel, and online booking sites often add fees. Reported ranges are:

• Phuket to Koh Phi Phi: about 350 to 550 baht for the larger ferry in about two hours, and faster speedboats in about an hour at a higher price.
• Phuket to Krabi: roughly 400 to 600 baht, about 90 to 120 minutes.
• Phuket to Koh Lanta: roughly 650 to 800 baht, about two and a half to three hours.
• Bang Rong to Koh Yao Noi or Yao Yai: roughly 200 to 550 baht depending on boat type, about 30 to 50 minutes.
• Chalong to Racha: about 45 minutes by speedboat, usually sold as part of a tour.

Cars are generally not carried on these passenger routes, so check vehicle ferries separately if you plan to take one.

Booking and timing

Buy from the operator or a booking site that shows the real timetable, and avoid street offers that bundle extras. Aim to arrive at the pier well before the sailing, and allow extra time during holidays and on weekends. Morning boats are usually the most reliable because afternoon winds can rise.

A day trip from Phuket usually works best if you leave early, and a one-way ticket is often cheaper than a tour. Check public holiday dates in our 2027 holidays guide, as the busiest days sell out.

Monsoon season and safety

From roughly May to October the Andaman Sea is rougher, boats can be delayed or cancelled, and some island routes run less often. Read the beach safety guide and the heavy rain and floods guide before you book, check the day's forecast, and leave a buffer before a flight.

• Wear a life jacket when offered, and ask for one if it is not.
• Do not board an overloaded boat, and use licensed operators.
• Keep your passport, phone and wallet in a waterproof bag.
• Check your travel insurance covers boat travel and any activities, as in the health and insurance guide.

Living on or visiting the islands

Some residents move to Koh Yao or the smaller islands for a quieter life. Remember that hospitals are on the mainland, groceries and parcels take longer, and ferry times shape your day. Visit before you commit, and read the cost of living guide and the emergencies guide for how medical care works away from Phuket Town.