Traveling from Phuket to Koh Lipe requires careful planning, as this long-distance journey combines sea and land routes. With multiple transfer types, schedules, and costs to compare, booking your ticket online is the easiest way to secure a smooth trip. This guide provides step-by-step advice and practical tips to help you choose the most affordable and convenient option.
1. Choose Your Transfer Type
Ferry
- Departure: Rassada Pier, Phuket
- Duration: Around 5 hours, including short stops at islands such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta
- Price: THB 2,450–3,500
- Pros: Comfortable seating, spacious decks, scenic island views during stops
- Cons: Longer travel time compared with speedboats
Speedboat
- Departure: Rassada Pier, Phuket
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours, often with fewer island stops
- Price: THB 2,800–3,800
- Pros: Slightly faster, more frequent daily departures (2–3 times)
- Cons: Smaller space, potentially bumpier ride in rough seas
2. Consider Combined Travel Options for Budget Savings
For travelers prioritizing cost over speed, overland and sea connections can significantly reduce expenses:
- Bus (Phuket – Hat Yai): 7–8 hours, THB 300–650
- Minivan (Hat Yai – Pak Bara Pier): 2 hours, THB 150–250
- Ferry (Pak Bara Pier – Koh Lipe): 1.5 hours, THB 400–600
This combined option takes longer but offers flexibility and lower overall costs compared with direct ferries from Phuket.
3. Use Reliable Online Platforms
Travelers can search schedules and book tickets through reputable Thai travel service websites. These platforms allow you to purchase direct ferry or speedboat tickets, or combined overland + ferry connections.
- Check departure times carefully, as schedules vary by season.
- Booking early, especially during peak travel months (November–April), helps secure your preferred departure and more affordable rates.
4. Step-by-Step: Booking Online
- Enter travel dates on a booking website to view available ferry and speedboat schedules.
- Choose your route – either direct transfer (ferry or speedboat from Phuket) or a combined option via Pak Bara Pier.
- Compare costs and travel times to match your budget and preferred schedule.
- Add passenger details and select seats if applicable.
- Confirm and pay securely online using a credit card or digital payment method.
- Receive your e-ticket via email or app. Print or save it on your mobile phone to present at the pier.
5. Extra Travel Tips
- Luggage: Most transfers include one suitcase and one carry-on. Extra bags may incur fees.
- Pier Arrival: Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for check-in.
- Weather: Sea conditions affect travel; check forecasts, especially during the monsoon season (May–October).
- Private Transfers: Hiring a private taxi or van from Phuket to Pak Bara Pier can shorten land travel time but is more expensive.
- Peak Season: Book well in advance from December to February when demand is highest.
FAQs: Phuket to Koh Lipe Transfers
1. How long does it take to travel from Phuket to Koh Lipe?
The direct ferry or speedboat journey takes around 5 hours, while overland + ferry options can take 10–12 hours depending on connections.
2. Where do ferries and speedboats to Koh Lipe depart from in Phuket?
Most services leave from Rassada Pier, located about 15–20 minutes by car from Phuket Town.
3. How much does a ticket from Phuket to Koh Lipe cost?
- Direct ferry: THB 2,450–3,500
- Direct speedboat: THB 2,800–3,800
- Combined bus + ferry via Pak Bara Pier: THB 850–1,500 (depending on booking choices).
4. Are there daily departures from Phuket to Koh Lipe?
Yes. Ferries and speedboats usually operate 1–3 times daily in high season, with fewer or no services during low season.
5. Can I book tickets at the pier instead of online?
Tickets may be available at the pier, but advance online booking is recommended to guarantee seats and better rates, especially in high season.
6. Is the journey by speedboat rough?
Speedboats are faster but can be bumpy in choppy seas. Travelers prone to motion sickness should carry medication or choose the ferry for more stability.
7. Can I take large luggage on board?
Yes. Standard allowance is one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Oversized or extra luggage may require an additional fee.
8. What is the cheapest way to get to Koh Lipe from Phuket?
The most budget-friendly option is by bus from Phuket to Hat Yai, minivan to Pak Bara Pier, and ferry to Koh Lipe, with total costs starting from around THB 850.
9. Is it possible to arrange private transfers?
Yes. Taxis or private vans from Phuket to Pak Bara Pier can be arranged, followed by a ferry to Koh Lipe. This option is faster but more expensive.
10. When is the best season to travel from Phuket to Koh Lipe?
The best time is November to April, when seas are calmer and services run more frequently. During the low season, some routes may be suspended due to weather.
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: