There is no airport or road bridge on Koh Phi Phi, so the only way to arrive is by boat. Ferries and speedboats link Phi Phi Don's Tonsai Pier with Phuket, Krabi and, in season, Koh Lanta. This guide covers the routes, how long they take, what to expect on the pier, and how to handle weather and luggage.
Prices and timetables are approximate as of 2026 and change by season. Always check the operator's own page or the pier for the current schedule.
Route summary
| From | Where from | Typical time | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phuket | Rassada Pier | 1.5-2 hours | THB 450-900 | Several departures a day in high season |
| Krabi (Klong Jilad / Ao Nang area) | Krabi piers | 1.5-2 hours | THB 300-700 | Morning and afternoon boats |
| Koh Lanta | Saladan | 1.5-2 hours | THB 350-700 | Seasonal, often stops in monsoon |
| Koh Lipe or Trang | Via mainland | Long | Varies | Overnight stops likely; see Koh Lipe |
Every number above is approximate. Speedboats are usually faster but more expensive and bumpier; large ferries are slower and steadier.
From Phuket
Ferries depart from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town. Most travellers reach the pier by taxi, minivan or hotel transfer from their beach area. Allow plenty of time: traffic on the island can be heavy, and check-in at the pier can start 30 to 45 minutes before departure.
- Morning departures (often from around 08:30 or 09:00) are the most popular.
- Afternoon departures exist but may skip the low season.
- If you combine a late flight with a ferry, aim for the next day.
If you prefer a day trip from Phuket, tours bundle boat, lunch and snorkelling. See Phuket Phi Phi tour comparison and the Phuket hub.
Take the earliest ferry you can. If a departure is cancelled or delayed, you will still have the afternoon to try another.
From Krabi
From Krabi, boats leave from piers near Krabi Town and from the Ao Nang area. The longer crossings tend to be ferries; shorter, faster services use speedboats. Check which pier your ticket uses. Some tickets include a hotel pickup in Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
- Krabi Airport (KBV) to Phi Phi in one day is usually possible with a morning flight, but a late arrival often means a night on the mainland.
- Taxis between the airport and the pier add about 30-60 minutes.
See the Krabi hub for transfers and bases.
From Koh Lanta
During high season, boats travel between Saladan Pier and Phi Phi. They tend to operate from about November to April or May, but stop or reduce during the rainy season. Outside those months you may need to go via Krabi. See the Koh Lanta hub.
On arrival at Tonsai Pier
Tonsai Pier is the main landing point. A small environmental or development fee has been collected at the pier in many seasons; the amount can change, so check the current figure. Porters offer to carry bags for a fee; agree the price before handing over luggage. Many hotels in the centre are walkable; others are reached by longtail boat from the pier, so ask your hotel how to get there.
- Trolleys or wheeled bags work on the main paths but are awkward on sand.
- Pack a daypack for the first hours so you can leave the big bag at the hotel if you arrive before check-in.
- ATMs are near the pier, but carry some cash.
Weather and the rainy season
From roughly May to October the southwest monsoon brings rain and swell. Ferries usually keep running, but speedboats may be cancelled and large boats can be delayed.
- Weather decisions are made by captains and operators on the day.
- Plan buffer days around flights or any non-refundable plans.
- Seasickness medication can help on the rougher days.
Do not insist on a crossing in unsafe conditions. Wear the life jacket provided, keep valuables in a dry bag and follow crew instructions.
Check marine forecasts from the Thai Meteorological Department, and for a regional seasonal overview read Thailand best time by region.
Choosing between ferry and speedboat
- Ferry: Steadier, with a deck and toilets, cheaper, best if you worry about seasickness or have big luggage.
- Speedboat: Faster and sometimes more flexible, but smaller, bouncier and more affected by weather.
- Day tour: If you will not stay overnight, a tour bundles transport and snorkelling; compare inclusions carefully.
What to bring
- A small bag with water, sunscreen and a hat
- A dry bag for phone and wallet
- Motion sickness tablets
- Photocopies or photos of your passport
- Travel insurance details
- A power bank
Luggage and timing tips
- Put valuables in hand luggage; large bags may be stacked outside in the open on some boats.
- Label your bag with your hotel name.
- If you have a ferry-and-flight combination, leave at least 3 to 4 hours for the return leg; more in the rainy season.
Ticket sellers on piers and online may add booking fees or sell different boat types. Check the operator name, departure time, pier name and whether transfers are included before paying.
Costs (approximate)
| Item | Approximate cost |
|---|---|
| Ferry from Phuket or Krabi | THB 300-900 |
| Hotel transfer to pier | THB 100-500 per person shared, more by private taxi |
| Pier environmental fee | Small, check current |
| Porter on Phi Phi | Small fee per bag, agree first |
| Longtail from Tonsai to a quieter beach | THB 100-400 per person or per boat |
Figures are approximate as of 2026. Check the operator's own website or pier counters for current prices and season changes.
Suggested ways to arrive
| Situation | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Staying 2 nights, flying into Phuket | Morning ferry from Rassada, stay on Phi Phi, return the day after |
| Flying into Krabi | Take the Krabi ferry and combine with a Railay stay |
| Visiting from Lanta | High season only, otherwise via Krabi |
| Short on time | A Phuket day tour, but expect crowds |
For island choice across Thailand see Thailand which island, and for planning the stay see the Koh Phi Phi hub.
FAQ
Can I fly to Koh Phi Phi?
No. There is no airport. Fly to Phuket or Krabi and take a boat.
Which is quicker, Phuket or Krabi?
Both ferries take about the same time on the water. The quicker route overall depends on where you start and how far you are from the pier.
Do ferries run in the rainy season?
Usually yes, with disruptions. Speedboats are most affected. Allow spare time.
Is there a fee when I arrive?
A small environmental fee has been collected at Tonsai Pier in many seasons. Check the current amount before you go.
Should I book ferry tickets in advance?
In high season, booking ahead is wise, especially for morning departures. Low season usually allows walk-up tickets, but check that your preferred time is running.
Official sources and further reading
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Figures here are approximate as of 2026; always confirm on the official or operator page before you book. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
