Travelling from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang is simple by ferry or speedboat. This guide covers departure piers, journey times, fares in Thai Baht, hotel transfers and seasonal tips for a smooth crossing.
The easiest way to travel from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang is by boat. Ferries and speedboats depart from Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don and arrive at Nopparat Thara Pier, where a shuttle completes the journey to Ao Nang. Allow roughly 45 to 90 minutes on the water and a further 10 to 20 minutes by road, depending on your hotel.
Transport Options at a Glance
| Option | Typical time | Typical cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard ferry | 60-90 minutes | THB 450-700 | Most travellers; smoother and cheaper |
| Speedboat | 30-60 minutes | THB 600-900 | Shorter crossing in calm seas |
| Ferry plus hotel transfer | 1-3 hours in total | THB 450-1,200 | Ao Nang, Klong Muang, Tubkaek, Krabi Town or Railay |
| Private speedboat charter | About 50 minutes | From THB 13,200 | Groups, flexible timing, tight schedules |
Prices and schedules vary by operator and season. Departures typically run from about 08:45 to 17:00, with standard fares starting at around THB 450.
Step-by-Step Route
- Arrive at Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don 30 to 45 minutes before departure. Most Ao Nang services leave from here.
- Purchase or check in for your ticket. Options include a ferry, a speedboat, or a combined boat and transfer ticket.
- Travel to Nopparat Thara Pier, the main arrival point for Ao Nang. Some services call at Railay Beach en route.
- Continue by shuttle to your accommodation. Nopparat Thara Pier is about 10 minutes by road from central Ao Nang. Combination tickets often include drop-offs in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang and Tubkaek.
Choosing the Right Option
- Central Ao Nang: A standard ferry with a shared transfer generally offers the best value.
- Railay: Look for a service that stops at Railay, or arrange a boat or taxi from Ao Nang on arrival. Not every Phi Phi service includes Railay.
- Klong Muang or Tubkaek: Book a ferry and van combination, as the ferry alone does not reach these areas.
- Seasickness: Choose the larger ferry and sit mid-ship or towards the rear. Speedboats are faster but considerably bumpier when the Andaman Sea is choppy.
- Low season and poor weather: Confirm departure status on the morning of travel. Services may be delayed or cancelled due to sea conditions, and schedules are reduced outside the November to May high season.
Practical Tips
- In high season, book the day before, particularly for afternoon departures and hotel-transfer combinations.
- Keep your ticket or e-ticket accessible, and check whether the fare includes the pier-to-hotel shuttle.
- Pack valuables and electronics in a dry bag, as luggage may be stacked on the deck or in a covered area.
- If you are flying from Krabi Airport, allow generous time. The boat crossing, the transfer to Ao Nang and the onward journey to the airport can easily take half a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang?
Expect 45 to 90 minutes on the water, plus 10 to 20 minutes by road from Nopparat Thara Pier to your hotel. Door to door, the journey usually takes 1 to 3 hours. - Where do boats to Ao Nang depart from?
Most services leave from Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don and arrive at Nopparat Thara Pier. - How much does the journey cost?
Standard ferries cost about THB 450 to 700, and speedboats about THB 600 to 900. Ferry-plus-transfer tickets range from roughly THB 450 to 1,200 depending on the destination. - Is the ferry or the speedboat better?
The ferry is cheaper and smoother, making it suitable for most travellers. The speedboat is quicker but can be rough in choppy seas. - What time do boats run?
Departures commonly run from about 08:45 to 17:00. Check the current timetable, as schedules vary by operator and season. - Is hotel transfer included in the ticket?
Some tickets include a shuttle to Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang or Tubkaek. Confirm this at the time of booking. - Can I travel directly to Railay?
Some services stop at Railay Beach, but not all do. Otherwise, arrange a boat or taxi from Ao Nang after arrival. - When should I book?
In high season, book the day before, especially for afternoon departures and combined transfer tickets. - Do boats run during the low season?
Yes, but with reduced schedules, and services may be delayed or cancelled in bad weather. Check the status on the morning of travel. - Is a private charter worthwhile?
Private speedboat charters start from about THB 13,200 and take roughly 50 minutes. They suit groups and travellers with tight schedules or flexible timing needs.
