Koh Lanta, nestled in the serene Andaman Sea, is a tranquil haven within Thailand’s Krabi Province, celebrated for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and laid-back atmosphere. For travellers arriving in Krabi, reaching this idyllic island paradise is straightforward, with a variety of transportation options available to suit diverse preferences and budgets. The distance from Krabi to Koh Lanta is approximately 50-51 kilometres (31-31.9 miles), while from Krabi International Airport (KBV) to Koh Lanta is about 70 kilometres. The journey can take anywhere from 1 hour and 20 minutes to 5 hours, depending on your chosen mode of transport.
This comprehensive guide details all available transportation methods from Krabi to Koh Lanta, offering insights into travel times, costs, and key considerations for a smooth journey.
Transportation Options from Krabi to Koh Lanta
You have several convenient options for travelling between Krabi and Koh Lanta, including minivans, buses, ferries, speedboats, and private taxis.
1. Minivan/Bus
Minivans and buses are generally the most budget-friendly choices for this route.
- Travel Time: A minivan journey from Krabi Town or Krabi Airport typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, or between 2 to 3 hours for minivans. Bus services can take around 4 hours.
- Cost: Minivan fares usually range from 300-400 THB, equivalent to approximately $9 USD for economy options, or starting from $15 USD per person for minivans.
- Inclusions: Many minivan services include a short car ferry crossing to the island. Some packages also offer hotel drop-off in Koh Lanta.
- Pros: This option is inexpensive and offers multiple daily departures. Pick-ups are often available from central bus stations or the airport.
- Cons: Shared vans can sometimes be cramped or crowded, and may have luggage limitations. They often make multiple pick-ups and drop-offs along the way, which can extend travel time. Passengers have also reported that vans can become warm inside if the air conditioning is not working properly.
- Booking: You can book tickets at the airport or in Krabi town. It’s advisable to book online in advance, especially during peak season.
- Operators: Popular operators include Jijie Tour and Travel, Goodluck Lanta, Srisawat Travel and Tour, and RTC Transport. Vans from Ao Nang to Koh Lanta alone account for approximately 70 departures a day.
2. Ferry (Passenger Ferry and Speedboat)
For a more scenic journey, ferries offer a picturesque way to travel across the Andaman Sea.
- Travel Time:
- Passenger ferries from Krabi’s Klong Jilad Pier to Koh Lanta’s Saladan Pier take approximately 2 hours.
- Speedboats can complete the journey in about 1.5 hours.
- A High-Speed Ferry from Klong Jilad Pier takes about 1 hour.
- Cost: Passenger ferry tickets typically cost between 400-500 THB, or $10.99 – $38.47 USD. Speedboats are pricier, ranging from 800-1,200 THB, or $21.98 USD.
- Availability: Passenger ferry services primarily operate during the high season (November to April) when sea conditions are calmer. During the low season (May to October), these services are generally not available due to rougher seas. Speedboats are also available, often as part of combined tickets that include a minivan transfer to the pier.
- Pros: Ferries offer a scenic travel experience. Speedboats are a quick option if time is a priority. Some ferries may offer air conditioning and toilets.
- Cons: Ferry rides are dependent on weather conditions. Passengers prone to seasickness may find it an unpleasant experience. During the high season, ferry tickets can be difficult to acquire, necessitating advance booking. Some speedboats might not have on-board toilets, though stops at piers may offer facilities.
- Booking: It is essential to check schedules in advance, especially during off-peak times, and to book tickets early during the high season.
- Operators: Notable ferry operators include Ao Nang Travel And Tour, Lanta Super Concord Tour, Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club, Tigerline Travel, Bundhaya Speed Boat, and Chaokoh Ferry.
3. Taxi/Private Transfer
For maximum comfort, privacy, and convenience, a private taxi or minivan transfer is the most comfortable and stress-free option.
- Travel Time: A private transfer can take approximately 2 hours, though the overall journey from Ao Nang to Koh Lanta, including transfers, is estimated to be between 2 and 5 hours.
- Cost: Private transfers are the most expensive option. An estimated cost for a one-way taxi ride can range from $77.24 USD to $179.20 USD. Private cars for 3 passengers start around $67.16 USD, and vans for 9 passengers start at $82.32 USD. Private minivans accommodating six to nine passengers typically cost between $80 to $120 USD, while private taxis are around $90 USD per vehicle.
- Inclusions: Private transfers often provide door-to-door service from Krabi Airport or your hotel to your accommodation in Koh Lanta, including ferry tickets for passengers. They also offer flexibility in departure times and locations.
- Pros: This option allows you to tailor your trip, choose your vehicle type, and enjoy comfort and privacy. Drivers can make toilet stops as needed.
- Cons: The primary drawback is the higher cost compared to other modes of transport. There might also be limited luggage allowance in some private vehicles.
- Booking: Private transfers can be pre-booked online through various companies or arranged upon arrival at Krabi Airport. For late arrivals, booking a taxi directly from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta is often feasible.
- Operators: Companies like Phuket Transfer Travel Andaman, Andaman Taxis, At Lanta Vacation, BangkokTaxi24, Gosafe Transport, Kim Transfers Thailand, Ramon Transport, Ramon Transport Private, Andaman Taxi, Krabi Taxi, and Call Me Taxi Thailand offer private transfer services. Krabi Shuttle is also recommended for good service.
Key Considerations for Your Journey
- Distance: The land distance from Ao Nang to Koh Lanta is 67 kilometres (42 miles).
- Departure Times: The earliest departure from Ao Nang to Koh Lanta is 6:50 AM, and the latest is 6:00 PM.
- Booking in Advance: It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (November to April), as tickets can be scarce.
- Late Arrivals: If your flight lands late in the evening at Krabi Airport (e.g., 8 PM), it may be more practical to stay overnight in Krabi Town and travel to Koh Lanta the following morning. This can be a cheaper and more relaxed option than an expensive late-night taxi. The last car ferry to Koh Lanta usually operates until 10:00 PM.
- Luggage: When travelling by shared van, it’s advisable to pack lightly or use a backpack, as luggage space may be limited.
- On Koh Lanta: Once on the island, you can explore using tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis (fares starting around 50 THB or $1.40 USD), or by renting a scooter (200-300 THB or $5.50-$8.50 USD per day). Walking is also a viable option in concentrated areas like Saladan and Long Beach.
What to See and Do Along the Way and in Koh Lanta
- En Route: Consider visiting the Hong Islands from Ao Nang for stunning limestone formations and snorkeling, or take the Four Islands Tour. You could also detour to Koh Phi Phi for its beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Koh Lanta Attractions:
- Mu Koh Lanta National Park: Features rugged cliffs, a lighthouse, and a quiet beach.
- Khao Mai Kaew Cave: A network of caves for adventurous explorers.
- Khlong Chak Waterfall: A refreshing cascade accessible via a short jungle trek.
- Beaches: Enjoy Long Beach (Phra Ae) for lively activity or Bamboo Bay for seclusion.
- Lanta Old Town: Explore a charming fishing village with stilt houses and local shops.
- Island Hopping: Take day trips to nearby islands like Koh Rok or Koh Phi Phi for snorkelling.
Travelling from Krabi to Koh Lanta offers a seamless transition to a captivating island retreat. Whether you prioritize budget-friendliness with a minivan, a scenic journey by ferry, or the ultimate convenience of a private transfer, there are ample choices to ensure your arrival in Koh Lanta is as enjoyable as the destination itself. Plan your journey according to your preferences, and prepare to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Koh Lanta.
Your Complete Guide: How to Travel from Krabi to Koh Lanta
Planning your journey from Krabi to Koh Lanta? Whether you’re landing at Krabi Airport (KBV) or staying in Krabi Town or Ao Nang, there are multiple convenient ways to reach this stunning island in the Andaman Sea.