Ferries to Phuket
Ferries to Phuket
Phuket is the gateway to Thailand’s Andaman Coast and a major hub for ferry connections from nearby islands. Whether you’re coming from iconic hotspots like Koh Phi Phi or more laid-back destinations like Koh Yao Noi, there are plenty of scenic routes to get you back to Phuket by boat. Below is an overview of the most common ferry connections to Phuket, but let's first take a visual look at the different Andaman sea connection in the Thai ferry map.
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)
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.
About the crossings to Phuket
Koh Phi Phi → Phuket
One of the most popular and scenic ferry crossings in Thailand.
- Ferry time: ~1 to 2 hours
- Pier in Phuket: Usually Rassada Pier
- Pier in Phi Phi: Tonsai Pier
- Operators: Phi Phi Cruiser, Andaman Wave, Sea Angel, Lomprayah
- Frequency: Several departures daily
- A classic route offering stunning views of limestone cliffs and turquoise water.
Koh Lanta → Phuket
A longer crossing, often with a stop in Koh Phi Phi.
- Ferry time: ~1.5 to 2.5 hours (direct or via Phi Phi)
- Pier in Phuket: Rassada Pier
- Pier in Koh Lanta: Saladan Pier
- Operators: Tigerline, Bundhaya, Satun Pakbara
- Tip: Some routes include speedboats—faster but bumpier during rough seas.
Krabi (Ao Nang / Railay) → Phuket
Combines a short land transfer and a beautiful boat ride.
- Ferry time: ~2 to 3 hours including transfer
- Transfer: Usually includes van from Krabi to the pier
- Arrival in Phuket: Rassada Pier or Chalong Pier
- Operators: Ao Nang Princess, Koh Yao Sun Smile
- Ideal for those staying in Ao Nang or Railay Beach and heading west.
Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi → Phuket
Peaceful islands just a short hop away from Phuket. Which you can book via the booking module at the start or the bottom of this page.
- Ferry time: ~30 to 60 minutes
- Pier in Phuket: Bang Rong Pier or Ao Po Pier
- Operators: Koh Yao Sun Smile, local speedboat services
- Frequency: Multiple daily departures
- A great alternative if you’re looking for tranquility before returning to Phuket.
Gulf of Thailand (Samui, Phangan, Tao) → Phuket (via land + ferry combo)
There’s no direct ferry due to the landmass, but combo tickets make it easy.
- Total travel time: ~6 to 9 hours
- Route: Ferry from island → Don Sak Pier → minibus/van to Phuket
- Booking: Available as one ticket through agencies or online
- Tip: Comfortable and hassle-free option if you're crossing Thailand coast to coast.
Other crossings in Thailand:
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.
