Koh Phi Phi, an archipelago renowned for its rugged karst cliffs, emerald jungles, and pristine white sands, is a must-visit destination in Thailand. Many travelers embark on this journey from Phuket, one of the closest and most convenient jump-off points, which also boasts its own airport and numerous boat connections. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to purchase tickets for your journey from Phuket to Phi Phi, along with essential travel details and insights from other travelers.
Why Visit Koh Phi Phi?
Often described as one of Thailand’s most stunning spots, Koh Phi Phi attracts thousands of visitors annually seeking beautiful beaches, idyllic hotel stays, and vibrant cocktail bars nestled under palm trees. The islands, administratively part of Krabi Province, are famed for their rock-ribbed karst mountains and cotton-white sands, making the trip a “rite of passage” for first-time visitors to Thailand.
Transportation Options from Phuket to Phi Phi
The 31-mile journey across Phang Nga Bay to Phi Phi’s piers offers several transport choices, each with distinct characteristics regarding time, price, and comfort.
1. Normal Ferry
Normal ferries are the most popular choice for many travelers due to their comfort and spaciousness.
- Duration: The crossing typically takes between 2 and 4 hours. Some sources indicate an average of 2 hours.
- Price: Fares can start as low as THB 434.83 (approximately $14) when booked online. Promotional prices for adult one-way tickets can be THB 650, with a regular price of THB 700. Round-trip fares for a standard ferry are around THB 900.
- Comfort: These are large, multi-decked boats offering air-conditioned seating compartments and access to outdoor decks. First and premium classes may offer luxurious sofa seats. Refreshments like tea and coffee are often provided onboard.
- Companies: Popular operators include Andaman Wave Master, Songserm, Seatran Phuket, Ao Nang Travel and Tour, and Phi Phi Cruiser.
- Departure Pier: The vast majority of normal ferries depart from Rassada Pier in Phuket, located on the south-west side of the island, about 10 minutes west of Phuket Town. Rassada Pier offers amenities such as public toilets, a guest rest lounge, coffee and snack shops, an ATM, and a taxi/minibus booking center.
- Arrival Pier: All ferries arrive at Tonsai Pier in Tonsai Bay, which is centrally located within the main village on Phi Phi Island. Upon arrival, guests are required to pay a 20 THB provincial government tax for island maintenance.
2. Speedboat
For those prioritizing speed, speedboats offer a significantly quicker journey.
- Duration: The trip from Phuket to Phi Phi can be completed in just over 1 hour, or typically between 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Price: Speedboat fares generally range from $25-$40. Promotional one-way tickets can be THB 700, and round-trip tickets THB 1400. The Adventure Club lists speedboat tickets at THB 1000.
- Comfort: While fast, speedboats can be “notoriously wobbly” when out at sea, making them less suitable for those prone to motion sickness or vertigo.
- Departure Piers: Speedboats offer more flexible departure points across Phuket, including Ao Chalong Pier in the south and Bang Rong Pier in the north, allowing travelers to avoid long transfers to Rassada Pier or large crowds.
- Arrival Pier: Speedboats also arrive at Tonsai Pier in Koh Phi Phi.
- Important Considerations: Speedboat tours are generally not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with high blood pressure or heart problems, infants under 2 years old, or seniors over 65 years old due to potential sea conditions.
3. Bus and Ferry via Krabi
An alternative, albeit much longer, option for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking more adventure is to travel via Krabi Town.
- Duration: This route takes approximately 7 to 8 hours or more, including bus travel and transfers.
- Price: Costs start from around $20+. While potentially saving a “couple of dollars,” the cost difference is minor compared to normal ferries, making it more about the “adventure” of seeing other areas like Koh Jum and Krabi’s fishing port.
- Procedure: It involves catching local buses from Phuket bus terminal to Krabi, then using local transport like tuk-tuks or songthaews to reach the port for a ferry to Phi Phi.
Where to Purchase Your Tickets
You have several convenient options for buying your Phuket to Phi Phi boat tickets, both online and at the pier.
Online Booking Platforms
Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially during high season (December to March). It often secures better prices and ensures availability.
- SmartEnPlus is a one-stop travel service enabling travelers to plan and book buses, ferries, trains, airport shuttles, and combined transfers across Thailand online—quickly, safely, and backed by round-the-clock support.
Booking at the Pier
While possible, especially during the low season, it’s generally advisable to book in advance.
- During low season, ferries are unlikely to be full, and you can often just turn up and take the next available ferry.
- However, in high season, booking a couple of days in advance is recommended.
- Each service provider typically has a counter at Rassada Pier where you can purchase tickets. There is a risk of being scammed by individuals writing tickets at the pier, so it’s safer to buy at official sales offices.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Journey
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, keep the following in mind:
- Check-in: Customers must check in at their chosen pier at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Luggage: Be aware of luggage weight limits, typically no single bag weighing more than 20kg or 44lbs.
- Conservation Fee: Upon arrival at Tonsai Pier in Phi Phi, all visitors are required to pay a 20 THB entry fee, which contributes to island cleanliness.
- Hotel Transfers: Many packages include convenient pick-up and drop-off services from hotels in areas like Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town. Note that surcharges may apply for transfers from other areas like Kamala Beach or northern Phuket. Booking a transfer-ferry combo ticket from Phuket Airport is a “breeze”.
- Seasickness: If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking medication at least 30 minutes before departure and sitting towards the rear of the vessel where motion is usually less pronounced.
- Weather Conditions: Travel times and itineraries may vary due to weather and sea conditions, especially for speedboat tours which can alter snorkeling spots.
- Child Tickets: Children aged 0-2 years typically travel free, while child tickets apply for ages 3-10.
Real Traveler Experiences and Reviews
Travelers frequently share positive experiences regarding the ferry services:
- Andaman Wave Master has been praised for its professionalism, comfortable boats, and timely departures and arrivals. Users noted that staff are polite, helpful, and that the pick-up and drop-off services are accurate and well-priced.
- Some travelers reported smooth crossings on normal ferries, even finding them “fairly quiet”.
- Online booking platforms like Bookaway.com have received positive feedback for their deals and ease of use, including not needing to print tickets.
Conclusion
Traveling from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi by boat is a convenient, scenic, and fun experience. Whether you opt for the comfortable and spacious normal ferries or the quick speedboats, purchasing your tickets in advance through reputable online platforms like Smartenplus is generally the most straightforward and often most cost-effective approach. Remember to factor in check-in times, luggage allowances, and the small conservation fee upon arrival to ensure a seamless journey to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands.