The journey covers approximately 46km of Andaman Sea, taking between 1-3 hours depending on your chosen transportation method and destination on the island. Both options depart from Rassada Pier on Phuket's southeast coast, with multiple daily departures to accommodate various travel schedules.
The standard ferry service represents the most economical option for travelers heading to Phi Phi Island from Phuket. Ferries operate daily throughout the year, making this a reliable transportation choice regardless of when you visit Thailand1. The journey typically takes around 2 hours to reach Tonsai Pier, which serves as the main arrival point on Phi Phi Don Island3. If your final destination is Laem Tong Beach on the northern part of the island, expect a longer journey of approximately 3 hours3.
Multiple ferry operators service this route, including Andaman Wave Master, Phi Phi Cruiser, and Chaokoh Ferry, offering several departure times throughout the day6. Based on the most recent schedules, ferries depart from Phuket at 08:30, 11:00, 13:30, and 15:00, providing travelers with flexibility in planning their journey6. A one-way ferry ticket costs approximately 700 THB per person, making this the budget-friendly option compared to speedboats1.
The morning ferry from Phuket additionally offers passengers a complementary scenic route around Phi Phi Ley Island, including a view of the famous Maya Bay for about 30 minutes before arriving at Tonsai Bay1. This brief sightseeing opportunity adds value to the standard ferry option for those interested in glimpsing this iconic location featured in Leonardo DiCaprio's film "The Beach"4.
Phi Phi Cruiser: Departures at 08:30 (arriving 10:30) and 13:30 (arriving 15:30)6
Andaman Wave Master: Multiple departures at 08:30, 08:31, 12:30, 13:30, and 13:316
Chaokoh Ferry: Departures at 11:00 (arriving 13:00) and 15:00 (arriving 17:00)6
These ferry services consistently operate throughout the week, providing reliable transportation options for travelers with different schedule preferences6.
For travelers prioritizing speed and convenience, speedboats offer the fastest route to Phi Phi Island from Phuket. The journey by speedboat takes just under one hour, significantly reducing travel time compared to the standard ferry option3. Multiple speedboat operators service this route, including Bundhaya Speed Boat and Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club, with several departures scheduled throughout the day6.
Based on current schedules, speedboats depart from Rassada Pier at 08:30, 10:00, 12:00, 12:30, and 14:306. This frequency offers travelers considerable flexibility when planning their journey to Phi Phi Island. While speedboat tickets are more expensive than ferry options, many travelers consider the time saved worth the additional cost, especially for those with limited vacation time3.
For those seeking a balance between cost and speed, shared speedboat services offer an alternative to private charters. According to recent schedules, shared speedboats from Phuket to Phi Phi Island depart at multiple times daily:
Morning departures: 08:30, 11:00
Afternoon departures: 12:30, 13:30, 15:301
Return journeys from Phi Phi to Phuket are equally accommodating, with departures at 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 14:30, and 15:001. This extensive schedule ensures travelers can find a suitable departure time regardless of their plans.
The primary difference between ferry and speedboat options is the journey duration. Ferries typically take 2-3 hours depending on your final destination on Phi Phi Island, while speedboats complete the journey in approximately one hour3. For travelers with limited time or those prone to seasickness, the speedboat option offers significant advantages despite the higher cost2.
For context, the alternative route of taking a public ferry followed by a long-tail boat can take up to three hours in total to reach certain resorts on Phi Phi Island2. In comparison, direct speedboat services reach even the northern beaches of Phi Phi Island in just one hour, saving valuable vacation time2.
Ferry services generally offer more spacious seating arrangements with indoor and outdoor options. Many vessels are equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, and small cafes selling snacks and beverages5. The slower pace also provides more opportunity to appreciate the scenery of the Andaman Sea during your journey.
Speedboats offer a more exhilarating experience, though the faster pace and smaller vessel size can result in a bumpier ride, especially during windy conditions or monsoon season. However, many speedboat services provide amenities to enhance comfort, with some operators like GoPhiPhiIsland offering cold towels and complimentary drinks for their passengers2.
Regardless of which transportation option you choose, most boats to Phi Phi Island depart from Rassada Pier on the southeast coast of Phuket Island3. The pier is approximately 15 minutes from Phuket Old Town and 45 minutes from popular tourist areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon beaches3.
From Phuket Airport, expect a transfer time of approximately one hour to reach Rassada Pier1. Many transportation services offer hotel pick-up options from major tourist areas in Phuket, including Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, Karon, Rawai, and Nai Harn5. If your accommodation is located outside these areas, you may need to arrange your own transportation to the pier5.
Tickets for both ferry and speedboat services can be booked through various channels:
Online platforms like 12GoAsia offer easy comparison of different operators, schedules, and prices3
Through your accommodation in Phuket
Via travel agencies in tourist areas
Directly at Rassada Pier (though advance booking is recommended during high season)
When booking transportation that includes hotel pickup, confirm your pickup time in advance, as you'll need to be ready in your hotel lobby at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time5. Late arrivals may result in missed transfers and forfeited tickets5.
It's important to note that ferry services to Koh Lanta from Phi Phi only operate during the high season between November 1 and April 301. Additionally, during monsoon season (typically May to October), sea conditions can be rougher, potentially causing delays or cancellations, particularly for speedboat services. Many operators reserve the right to postpone or cancel trips due to adverse weather conditions, typically offering full refunds or alternative dates5.
When arriving at Phi Phi Island's main pier (Tonsai Bay), travelers staying at resorts in other parts of the island will need to arrange additional transportation. For those heading to northern resorts such as Zeavola Beach Resort, Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, or Phi Phi Holiday Inn, continued transportation via smaller ferry boats or private long-tail boats will be necessary1. Many resort transfers are pre-arranged when booking accommodations or through services like hotelATM1.
Travelers should be aware of the additional island fee of 20 THB per person, which is typically paid upon entry to Phi Phi Island5. This conservation fee contributes to environmental protection efforts on the island, which has faced challenges from overtourism in recent years4.
Traveling from Phuket to Phi Phi Island offers a choice between economical and time-efficient options to suit different travel preferences and budgets. Ferries provide a cost-effective solution with the bonus of potential scenic routing, while speedboats offer significant time savings for those looking to maximize their time on the island. With multiple daily departures from both services, travelers can easily find transportation that aligns with their schedule and accommodation requirements.
Whether you choose the leisurely pace of a ferry journey or the swift transit of a speedboat, the journey across the Andaman Sea forms an integral part of the Phi Phi Island experience. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, travelers can ensure a smooth transition from the hustle of Phuket to the tropical paradise of Phi Phi Island