Traveling between Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe is a popular journey for island hoppers in Thailand. The route is best covered by boat—either a direct speedboat/ferry service or a combination of land and sea travel. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all available options, costs, schedules, and useful tips to ensure a smooth trip.
1. Overview of Travel Options
There are two primary ways to travel from Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe:
- Direct Speedboat or Ferry (fastest and most convenient)
- Van + Ferry via Pak Bara Pier (slower but sometimes necessary in low season)
2. Option 1: Direct Speedboat or Ferry
Best for: Travelers seeking speed and convenience.
- Departure Point: Saladan Pier, Koh Lanta
- Arrival Points: Pattaya Beach, Bundhaya Beach, or the immigration point on Koh Lipe
- Journey Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Typical Price: THB 1,200 – THB 1,800 (USD 33 – USD 47)
- Operators: Bundhaya Speed Boat, Tigerline Travel, Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club, Lanta Transport
- Frequency: Multiple departures daily, generally between 08:00 – 10:30
- Extras: Some operators offer hotel pickup by minivan or taxi as part of a combined ticket.
- Notes:
- Schedules vary by season; in low season, services may be reduced or suspended.
- Booking 1–2 days in advance is advised, particularly in high season.
- Seas can be choppy—consider seasickness medication if needed.
3. Option 2: Van + Ferry via Pak Bara Pier
Best for: Travelers unable to secure direct boat tickets or traveling in low season.
- Route:
- Van/bus from Koh Lanta to Pak Bara Pier (mainland Satun Province)
- Ferry from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe
- Journey Duration: 9 – 10 hours (including transfers)
- Typical Price: THB 1,050 – THB 1,750 (USD 30 – USD 50)
- Advantages: Sometimes cheaper; more departure flexibility in low season.
- Disadvantages: Significantly longer and involves multiple transfers.
4. Comparison Table
| Transport Mode | Duration | Cost (THB) | Departure Point | Arrival Point | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Speedboat/Ferry | ~3 hours | 1,200 – 1,800 | Saladan Pier, Koh Lanta | Pattaya/Bundhaya Beach, Koh Lipe | Fastest, most convenient, multiple trips daily |
| Van + Ferry (via Pak Bara) | ~9–10 hours | 1,050 – 1,750 | Koh Lanta | Koh Lipe | Involves land transfer, slower, used in low season |
5. Key Travel Tips
- Book Early: In high season (November–April), demand is high—reserve seats ahead of time.
- Check Weather: Rough seas can delay or cancel services; confirm schedules a day before departure.
- Travel Light: Boarding speedboats can require wading through shallow water—lighter luggage is easier.
- Consider Comfort: Speedboats can be bumpy. Bring seasickness tablets if prone to motion sickness.
- Local Agencies: Tickets can be purchased at travel shops on Koh Lanta or through reputable online booking platforms.
6. Conclusion
For most travelers, the direct speedboat/ferry from Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) to Koh Lipe (Pattaya or Bundhaya Beach) offers the best combination of speed, convenience, and overall experience. The van + ferry route via Pak Bara Pier remains a viable alternative during low season or when direct services are unavailable.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to travel from Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe?
Direct ferries/speedboats take around 3 hours; the van + ferry route can take 9–10 hours.
2. How much does a direct ferry ticket cost?
Between THB 1,200 – THB 1,800 depending on the operator and season.
3. Where do ferries depart from in Koh Lanta?
Most depart from Saladan Pier, the main ferry terminal on Koh Lanta.
4. Where do ferries arrive in Koh Lipe?
Common arrival points include Pattaya Beach and Bundhaya Beach.
5. Are there multiple departures per day?
Yes, usually between 08:00 and 10:30, though frequency may be reduced in low season.
6. Can I book tickets online?
Yes. Websites such as SmartEnPlus allow online booking, or you can use local travel agencies.
7. Is the trip affected by weather?
Yes. Strong winds and rough seas can cause delays or cancellations, particularly during the rainy season (May–October).
8. Is seasickness common?
The journey can be bumpy, so seasickness medication is recommended for those prone to motion sickness.
9. Is hotel pickup available?
Many operators offer hotel pickup as part of a combined ferry + van ticket—check when booking.
10. When is the best time to travel?
High season (November–April) offers the most frequent services and calmer seas.
Key Takeaway:
If you value speed and convenience, choose the direct ferry or speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Lipe. Book early in peak season and keep an eye on the weather for the smoothest experience.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: