Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai from Phuket: Bang Rong Pier, Ferries, Times and Fares

The two islands

Koh Yao Yai is described as a peaceful island in Phang Nga Bay known for quiet beaches and local village life, and Koh Yao Noi is its smaller neighbour. Both are within easy reach of Phuket, which makes them an alternative to the busier beaches for a day out or a night or two. Phang Nga Bay is also covered in the island-hopping guide and the Phang Nga Bay tours guide.

Getting to Bang Rong Pier

Most boats leave from Bang Rong Pier on Phuket's northeast coast. Bang Rong is about a 20 to 25-minute drive from Phuket airport, according to one travel writer, and another guide describes a 25 to 40-minute drive to the pier. A pier fee of 10 baht was reported by one traveller. Taxis or a pre-booked transfer are the usual way there, and the Phuket airport guide covers transfers.

Speedboats and times

Ferry booking sites say boats from Bang Rong to Koh Yao Yai run seven days a week all year, with the first around 08:30 and the last around 17:00, and a crossing to Chong Lard Pier takes about 30 minutes. Fares are reported as roughly 250 to 400 baht one way. For Koh Yao Noi, one writer lists speedboats from Bang Rong to Laem Sai Pier at about 09:30, 11:00, 15:30 and 17:00, with a 15:00 service to Manoh Pier, and return boats at about 06:30, 10:30, 13:00 and 15:00. Another source gives 30 to 40 minutes by speedboat from Bang Rong.

Treat these times as examples. Timetables change by operator and season, so check the current times, and note that in the listing above the last return boats from Koh Yao Noi left around 15:00.

The Rassada route

Some boats leave Rassada Pier in Phuket Town. One speedboat operator runs from Rassada to Manoh Pier on Koh Yao Noi in around an hour, according to a travel guide, while another writer says the Tigerline boats from Rassada take about 3.5 hours, so check the specific service. Cars are not carried on the Rassada to Manoh sailings, according to a ferry site.

Planning your visit

• A day trip is possible but the schedule is tight, so check the last boat back before you go.
• Book the first and last boats ahead in high season, and expect rough-sea delays in the wetter months.
• Arrange your onward transfer from the island pier with your accommodation before you arrive.
• Pack light and carry some cash.
• Check the weather and sea forecast before crossing, and see the weather guide.

You can also continue by boat from the Yao islands to Ao Nang or Railay on the mainland, according to one route guide, which makes them a stepping stone for a longer trip. See the onward travel guide for the options.