Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta: Complete Transfer Guide

Planning your journey from Krabi Airport to the serene island of Koh Lanta is a straightforward process, thanks to Thailand’s well-developed and tourist-friendly transport system. As an expert who has personally navigated these routes, this guide provides all the essential information, current prices, timetables, and insider tips for a seamless transfer.

Why Escape to Koh Lanta?

Koh Lanta is a tranquil island paradise in Krabi province, renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal retreat from bustling crowds. It caters particularly well to couples, solo travelers, divers, and families with young children seeking a relaxed holiday experience away from noisy parties.

Beyond its breathtaking beaches like Beautiful Beach, Long Beach, and Nui Bay, perfect for relaxation and swimming, Koh Lanta offers diverse activities:

Snorkeling and Diving: Explore vibrant marine life in areas like Bamboo Bay.
Kayaking and Hiking: Discover hidden caves and the Klong Jark waterfall.
Island Tours: Take a Four Islands tour, often including the majestic Emerald Cave.
Cultural Immersion: Explore Lanta Old Town with its unique blend of Thai, Chinese, and Chao Ley influences, browsing local shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Ethical Tourism: Visit Lanta Animal Welfare, a non-profit dedicated to stray animals, or Following Giants Ethical Elephant Sanctuary for respectful elephant observation.
Culinary Experiences: Engage in a Thai cooking class to delve into local cuisine.

Understanding Koh Lanta’s Geography & Your Arrival

Koh Lanta primarily consists of two main islands: Koh Lanta Noi (“Small”) and Koh Lanta Yai (“Big”). Koh Lanta Yai is where the majority of tourist hotels and activities are located. Since April 2016, the Siri Lanta Bridge has connected these two islands, significantly easing land travel.

If traveling by road from the mainland, your route will involve crossing through Koh Klang via a small bridge before reaching a car ferry that transports you to Koh Lanta Noi. From there, you will drive across the Siri Lanta Bridge to reach Koh Lanta Yai. Passenger ferries and speedboats, however, arrive directly at Saladan Pier, situated in the northern part of Koh Lanta Yai.

Getting from Krabi to Koh Lanta: Your Options Explained

There are several reliable ways to travel from Krabi to Koh Lanta, each offering distinct advantages in terms of cost, speed, and convenience.

1. Shared Minivan (The Most Popular & Budget-Friendly)

The shared minivan is widely considered the easiest, most popular, and budget-friendly option for reaching Koh Lanta from Krabi. This method primarily relies on a land route.

How it Works: Minivans travel overland from Krabi, utilizing a short car ferry to cross to Koh Lanta Noi, and then driving across the Siri Lanta Bridge to Koh Lanta Yai. Passengers typically remain inside the van during the brief car ferry ride.
Duration: The journey usually takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours. From Krabi Airport, the road journey can be a little over an hour when traffic is good, though the total trip with ferry and transfers can extend this. The total time can fluctuate based on traffic, the number of passenger pick-ups and drop-offs, and waiting times for the car ferry. One traveler reported a 3-hour trip that included a 1-hour delay at the ferry.
Cost: The cost per person from Krabi to Koh Lanta in a shared minivan is 450 Baht. From Krabi Airport, shared minivan costs range from 350 Baht to 450 Baht. Importantly, the short ferry trip between the mainland and Koh Lanta is included in the price. Online booking platforms may show prices ranging from approximately $8.31 – $20.01 USD depending on the specific service.
Convenient Pick-ups: Minivan services offer pick-ups from various locations, including Krabi International Airport (KBV) (often near Exit 15 in Terminal 2), Krabi Bus Terminal (checking in at Counter 11 or 33), and hotels in Krabi Town or Ao Nang. Passengers are typically advised to be ready at their hotel lobby 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
Direct Drop-off: A significant advantage of minivan transfers is their door-to-door service, usually providing direct drop-off at your specific accommodation anywhere on Koh Lanta.
Car Ferry Details: The car ferry crossing itself is brief, lasting only about 15 to 20 minutes. It operates approximately from 5 am to midnight or 1 am. Waiting times to board the ferry can occur, particularly during peak travel periods.
Luggage Considerations: Minivans can have limited luggage space, and luggage may need to be stored under seats or in the aisle, which can make the journey cramped if the van is full or passengers have large bags. If you have significant or bulky luggage, it is recommended to consider purchasing an extra seat to ensure enough space and a more comfortable journey.
Pros:
- Most affordable option.
- Generally comfortable with air conditioning.
- Offers convenient door-to-door service with hotel drop-offs.
- A good choice for travelers prone to seasickness as the water crossing is minimal and smooth.
- Minivan services are available year-round, making it the only viable option during the off-season when passenger ferries do not operate.
Cons:
- Can sometimes be crowded, especially with luggage.
- Services may make multiple stops for passenger pick-ups/drop-offs.
- Potential for delays at the car ferry.
- Drivers may have limited English skills.

2. By Ferry or Speedboat (Scenic & Faster in High Season)

This option provides a direct sea route from various piers in Krabi to Koh Lanta.

Availability: Crucially, passenger ferry and speedboat services from Krabi to Koh Lanta only operate during the high season, which typically runs from November to April, when sea conditions are generally calmer. These services are not available during the off-season (May to October) due to rougher seas.
Duration: The ferry from Klong Jilad Pier generally takes about 2.5 hours, including a brief stop at Koh Jum. Some sources indicate a standard ferry journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Speedboats are typically faster.
Cost: Ferry tickets generally cost around 550 THB (approximately $11 USD). Speedboats are usually more expensive than standard ferries. Combination tickets including road transfers to the pier will also cost more, for example, a van+ferry combo can be around 1250 THB (~$35 USD).
Departure Piers (Krabi): Ferries depart from various piers in the Krabi area, including Klong Jilad Pier (Krabi’s main pier), Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang, Floating Pier East Railay, and Kongka Pier.
Arrival Pier (Koh Lanta): All passenger ferries and speedboats arrive at Saladan Pier, located in the northern part of Koh Lanta Yai.
Timetable: From Klong Jilad Pier, a daily ferry departs during high season at 11:30 AM, making a brief stop at Koh Jum before reaching Saladan Pier on Koh Lanta at approximately 2:00 PM. A second ferry leaves from Klong Jilad Pier at 2:30 PM, arriving at Saladan Pier around 5:00 PM. The 11:30 AM ferry normally departs from November through February.
Luggage Allowance: Ferry services generally offer a larger luggage allowance compared to shared minivans.
Pros:
- Offers a scenic journey across the sea.
- Can be faster than road transport, especially via speedboat.
- Provides a larger luggage capacity.
- Standard ferries often have amenities like a WC and air conditioning onboard.
Cons:
- Only available during the high season (November to April).
- Services can be significantly affected by rough weather conditions, potentially leading to delays or cancellations.
- There is a risk of seasickness, particularly in choppy waters.
- These services typically do not allow the transport of pets, bikes, or kayaks.
- Arriving at Saladan Pier can be busy and chaotic, and taxis waiting immediately at the pier are notoriously expensive and overpriced (e.g., charging as much as ฿500 per person for relatively short distances).

3. Private Taxi (Fastest & Most Convenient for Groups)

Booking a private taxi or vehicle offers a direct, private, door-to-door transfer from your location in Krabi to your hotel in Koh Lanta.

How it Works: Private taxis utilize the same land route as minivans, including the car ferry crossing to Koh Lanta Noi and the drive across the bridge to Koh Lanta Yai. Your driver will typically meet you at Krabi Airport with a sign bearing your name or pick you up directly from your hotel.
Duration: This is generally the fastest transport option, taking approximately 2 hours. Some sources indicate a travel time of 2 to 3 hours. The actual driving time from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta can be just over an hour with good traffic.
Cost: Private taxis are the most expensive option per vehicle. Quoted rates from Krabi Airport are approximately 1900฿ for a Sedan, 2000฿ for an SUV, and 2100฿ for a Van. From Krabi Town, rates are slightly higher: 2100฿ for a Sedan, 2200฿ for an SUV, and 2300฿ for a Van. Other sources provide similar ranges, for instance, from Krabi Airport to Saladan, a Standard Sedan is 2000฿, Luxury Sedan 2200฿, and Minivan 2500฿. From Krabi Town to Saladan, a Standard Sedan is 2200฿, Luxury Sedan 2400฿, and Minivan 2600฿. Prices vary based on the operator, vehicle size, and time of year/availability. This option becomes significantly more cost-effective when splitting the fare among a group, such as four or more people. The car ferry ticket may be included for a set number of passengers, with an additional cost per person beyond that.
Flexibility: Private transfers offer maximum flexibility regarding your departure time and pick-up location, as there is no fixed timetable.
Direct Drop-off: The taxi will take you directly to any hotel or address in Koh Lanta, which is perfect if you are traveling with family or have lots of bags.
Luggage Considerations: While generally good for large or sensitive luggage, some companies may ask for an extra seat for standard XL luggage.
Pros:
- Offers the fastest travel time compared to shared road transport.
- Provides the most comfortable and private experience.
- Offers convenient door-to-door service from your starting point to your exact destination.
- An excellent option for groups who can split the cost, potentially making it more affordable per person than individual minivan tickets in some scenarios.
- Like minivans, it’s good for travelers prone to seasickness as the water crossing is short and smooth.
Cons:
- It is the most expensive option when viewed as a total cost per vehicle.
- Some services might have minimum booking requirements (e.g., 6 people), though this varies by provider.

Booking Your Transfer: Tips for a Smooth Journey

To ensure a hassle-free trip to Koh Lanta, consider these booking tips:

Book in Advance: This is especially important during the peak season (November to April), when demand is high, to guarantee availability for your preferred transport type and time.
Utilize Online Booking Platforms: These platforms allow you to easily compare different transport options, check schedules, and book tickets, often with instant confirmation.
Look for Hotel Drop-off Combos: When booking online, consider services that explicitly include hotel drop-off in Koh Lanta. This is highly recommended to avoid the potentially chaotic and expensive transport options at Saladan Pier upon arrival.
Confirm Pick-up Details: If arranging airport pick-up, be aware that the meeting point is frequently near Exit 15 in Terminal 2 at Krabi Airport, even if the voucher might initially be confusing. For hotel departures, be prepared in the lobby at least 30 minutes before the scheduled pick-up time.
Review Luggage Policies: Pay attention to luggage allowances and restrictions, particularly with shared minivans. If you are traveling with significant luggage, it might be necessary to book an option with a larger allowance or purchase an extra seat on a minivan.
Check Cancellation Policies: Some booking services offer free cancellation up to a certain time before departure (e.g., 24 hours). Review these policies if flexibility is important for your travel plans.

Arriving in Koh Lanta: What to Expect

Your arrival experience will differ depending on your chosen mode of transport:

Road Arrival (Minivan/Taxi): If you travel by minivan or private taxi, you will cross the car ferry to Koh Lanta Noi and then drive directly to your accommodation on Koh Lanta Yai. This provides a seamless, door-to-door service.
Saladan Pier Arrival (Ferries/Speedboats): If arriving by passenger ferry or speedboat, you will disembark at Saladan Pier in the north of the island. This area can be quite busy and potentially chaotic, especially during peak arrival times.
Getting from Saladan Pier: Be aware that taxis and tuk-tuks waiting directly at Saladan Pier are known to be expensive and overpriced. They may charge as much as ฿500 per person for relatively short distances. To avoid this, it is highly recommended to arrange a pick-up directly with your resort if you have booked accommodation in advance. Alternatively, you might find more reasonably priced local taxis or songthaews by walking a short distance (around 5 minutes) away from the immediate pier area and into the main part of Saladan town.

Seasonal Considerations: High vs. Off-Season

The time of year you travel significantly impacts the available transport options and the overall experience in Koh Lanta:

High Season (November to April): This is the peak tourist season, offering the most favorable weather conditions with less intense heat and minimal rainfall. Ferry and speedboat services from Krabi operate during this period, providing a direct sea route. March can start to become noticeably hotter.
Off-Season (May to October): This period constitutes the rainy season, bringing heavier rainfall, rougher seas, and the potential for storms. Crucially, passenger ferry and speedboat services from Krabi (and other islands) do NOT operate during these months due to challenging sea conditions. Therefore, road travel (via minivan, bus, or taxi utilizing the car ferry) is the only way to reach Koh Lanta from Krabi during the off-season. While accommodation and travel costs may be lower during this time as many local businesses take a break, the weather can significantly limit water-based activities.

Beyond Transport: Exploring Koh Lanta

Once you’ve arrived, getting around Koh Lanta and enjoying its attractions is part of the adventure:

Getting Around the Island: The most convenient and popular way to explore Koh Lanta is by renting a motorbike, which are readily available from most accommodations. Koh Lanta’s roads are relatively quiet, even making them suitable for beginner riders. Safety is paramount – always wear a helmet, avoid excessive speed, and ensure you have adequate travel insurance.
Eating Local: For authentic, delicious, and affordable food, venture inland away from the beachfront restaurants, which tend to be more expensive. Explore local markets like Saladan Market for great street food options. Popular Thai dishes to try include seafood, Tom Yum Goong, Massaman curry, Pad Thai, and Som Tum (papaya salad). Vegan and vegetarian options are also widely available.
Koh Lanta at Night: The island offers a relaxed nightlife with beachfront bars and restaurants, some featuring live music or fire shows. Night markets are also available for local food and crafts. For a unique natural experience, look into bioluminescent plankton tours.

Additional Tips for Your Trip

Communication: Be prepared that some drivers may have limited English skills. Patience and using translation apps on your phone can be helpful for clear communication.
Unexpected Delays: While transport operators strive for punctuality, unforeseen delays can occur, such as waiting times for the car ferry during busy periods or disruptions due to weather, especially during the off-season. It is advisable to build a little buffer into your schedule if you have tight connections, although lengthy delays are not common. Speedboats would generally avoid such delays.
Respect Local Culture: Thailand is a country with deep cultural traditions. Be mindful of local customs, particularly regarding dress when visiting temples or more residential areas, and be considerate of noise levels, especially at night.

Conclusion

Traveling to the serene island of Koh Lanta from Krabi is a well-established route with reliable transport options available throughout the year. Whether you opt for the cost-effective minivan, the scenic high-season ferry, or the convenient private taxi, choosing the method that best suits your budget, travel style, and the season is key. Planning and booking your transfer in advance, especially during peak tourist months, will help ensure a smooth start to your island getaway. Prepare for a relaxing escape and enjoy the ease of reaching the beautiful paradise of Koh Lanta.

FAQs

How Do You Get From Krabi To Koh Lanta?

The most recommended way to get from Krabi to Koh Lanta is by shared minivan, offering convenient hotel pick-up and efficient service. Alternatively, you can book a private sedan, SUV, or van, which provides a more comfortable but significantly more expensive option.

How Long Is It From Krabi To Koh Lanta Ferry?

You can expect to be on the passenger ferry from Krabi to Koh Lanta for about 2 to 2.5 hours, including a stop at Koh Jum. Waiting times at the pier are typically short.

How Much Is A Taxi From Krabi To Koh Lanta?

Private taxi rates from Krabi to Koh Lanta vary based on the starting point and vehicle type. From Krabi Airport, a sedan costs approximately 1900 Baht, an SUV 2000 Baht, and a van 2100 Baht. From Krabi Town, a sedan costs around 2100 Baht, an SUV 2200 Baht, and a van 2300 Baht. These rates may vary slightly depending on the time of year and availability.