Ferries to Ko Phi Phi
Ferries to Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most iconic island destinations—famous for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and vibrant beach scene. It's located in the Andaman Sea, roughly halfway between Phuket and Krabi, and is only accessible by boat. Whether you're coming from the mainland or another island, getting to Koh Phi Phi is part of the adventure. Here's a breakdown of the main ferry routes, but let's first have a look at the Thailand ferry map to get a visual idea of what is where.
Map: Thailand ferry routes: crossings to the Thai Islands.
- Click on the ferry ports to see all crossings
In the following map, you can find several ferries on the southwestern coast of Thailand. Connecting Koh Samui to Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand and, on the other side, Koh Lanta, Phuket and Kho Phi Phi in the Andaman Sea. Bangkok lies to the north.
Andaman Sea (Western Side)
- Phuket ↔ Koh Phi Phi (1 – 2 hours)
- Koh Phi Phi ↔ Krabi (Ao Nang or Railay Beach) (1 – 1.5 hours)
- Koh Phi Phi ↔ Koh Lanta (1.5 – 2 hours)
- Phuket ↔ Koh Lanta (2.5 – 3 hours, some routes via Koh Phi Phi)
About the crossings to Ko Phi Phi
Phuket → Koh Phi Phi
The most popular and frequently used route to reach Phi Phi.
- Ferry time: ~1 to 2 hours
- Departure pier (Phuket): Mostly Rassada Pier
- Arrival pier (Phi Phi): Tonsai Pier
- Operators: Phi Phi Cruiser, Sea Angel, Andaman Wave, Lomprayah
- Frequency: Several daily departures (morning and early afternoon)
- Tip: Speedboats are faster but less comfortable in rough weather.
Krabi (Ao Nang / Railay / Krabi Town) → Koh Phi Phi
Perfect if you're exploring the mainland before heading to the islands.
- Ferry time: ~1.5 to 2 hours
- Departure piers:
- Ao Nang: Ao Nang Pier
- Railay: Floating pier (longtail transfer included)
- Krabi Town: Klong Jilad Pier
- Arrival pier: Tonsai Pier (Phi Phi)
- Operators: Ao Nang Princess, Andaman Wave, Seatran Discovery
- Tip: Some ferries include hotel pickup—check when booking.
Koh Lanta → Koh Phi Phi
A relaxed island-to-island connection.
- Ferry time: ~1 to 1.5 hours
- Departure pier (Koh Lanta): Saladan Pier
- Arrival pier (Phi Phi): Tonsai Pier
- Operators: Bundhaya, Satun Pakbara, Tigerline
- Tip: Often combined with onward trips to Phuket—easy for island-hopping.
Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi → Koh Phi Phi (via Phuket or Krabi)
No direct ferry, but easy to arrange via transfer.
- Route: Speedboat to Phuket or Krabi → ferry to Phi Phi
- Travel time: ~2.5 to 4 hours total
- Tip: Book as a combo ticket to simplify the transfer process.
Koh Phi Phi → Gulf Islands (Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, Ko Tao)
No direct ferry, but the full journey can be booked as a combo.
- Route: Ferry to Krabi or Phuket → van/minibus to Don Sak Pier → ferry to Gulf island
- Total travel time: ~7 to 9 hours
- Tip: Book in advance, especially during Full Moon or peak season.
Other crossings in Thailand:
Final Tips
- Main arrival point: Tonsai Pier, right in the heart of Phi Phi Don
- Luggage service: Often included on ferries, but prepare for manual loading/unloading
- Peak season: November to April—book early as ferries fill up fast
- No cars on the island: Arrive ready to walk or take a longtail boat to your accommodation
Whether you're heading to Koh Phi Phi for its beaches, nightlife, or diving, arriving by ferry sets the tone for the experience—stunning sea views, dramatic cliffs, and that first glimpse of paradise from the water.
Whether you're planning a quick island hop or a longer journey, booking in advance is crucial, especially in peak season.
Booking your ferry: why it’s important
Unlike in some other countries, ferries in Thailand sell out quickly—especially during the peak season (November to April). Many operators stop selling tickets approximately 24 hours before departure, meaning last-minute bookings are often not possible.
Key Booking Tips
- Book in advance – at least a few days ahead in high season, especially for popular routes like Koh Samui-Koh Tao or Phuket-Koh Phi Phi.
- Check ferry schedules early, as some routes have limited departures per day.
- Online booking is recommended – this ensures you have a confirmed ticket before arriving at the port.
- Don’t rely on same-day purchases – walk-in tickets may not be available, and some ticket counters close sales a day before departure.
Travel Considerations
- Ferries can be affected by weather, particularly in monsoon season (May–October)—check for cancellations.
- Some high-speed ferries can be rough in bad weather—consider motion sickness precautions.
- Most ferries are passenger-only, but car ferries operate between the mainland and Koh Samui.
By booking ahead, travelers can avoid the stress of sold-out ferries and enjoy a smooth journey between Thailand’s stunning islands.
Ferry Travel in Thailand
Thailand has a well-established ferry network, connecting major islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta. These ferries offer a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly mode of transport for island hopping.
Our platform provides expertise, information and route details. Travel options range from high-speed catamarans to standard ferries with seating. Timetables and availability vary based on season and weather conditions, so booking in advance is recommended.
