Koh Phi Phi cannot be reached from Ao Nang by road or longtail boat, so every traveler needs a scheduled boat. The crossing is short, but the right choice depends on your budget, your luggage and the season.
Quick answer
The direct speedboat from Ao Nang takes about 50 minutes, and slower conventional ferries take around 2 hours. Both services arrive at Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don. The distance is roughly 34 km.
Options compared
| Option | Crossing time | Approximate fare | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct speedboat | 50 minutes to 1 hour | THB 830 to THB 965 | Saving time, day trips |
| Conventional ferry | About 2 hours | THB 475 to THB 615 | Lower cost, a calmer ride |
| Minivan and ferry via Krabi | 2.5 to 3 hours | About THB 850 | Hotel pickup from outside Ao Nang |
Fares vary by operator, season and departure time, so treat these as guides rather than fixed prices.
Speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier
Speedboats leave from Nopparat Thara Pier, at the eastern end of Ao Nang Beach. Typical sailings include a 10:10 departure arriving at 11:00 and a 14:40 departure arriving at 15:30. Some timetables also list departures from Wang Sai Pier, with a crossing of about one hour. Fares on these services are listed at roughly THB 830 to THB 965.
Conventional ferry
The conventional ferry is slower and cheaper. One widely used service offers hotel pickup from Ao Nang and nearby areas, with a short stop at Railay Beach, which accounts for the longer journey. A typical morning departure is around 09:30, and fares are listed at about THB 615. Services run two departures a day from November to May and one morning departure in the low season.
Minivan and ferry via Krabi
Some tickets combine a minivan transfer to Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi with a ferry to Phi Phi. The total journey is about 2.5 to 3 hours at roughly THB 850. It suits travelers staying away from Nopparat Thara, but it is the slowest route for most visitors.
Seasonal conditions
- November to April is the dry season, with calm seas and the most frequent departures. Phi Phi is busiest from December to March, so reserve tickets early.
- May to October is the monsoon season, with heavier rain, rougher seas and more weather-related disruption. Services may be delayed, reduced or cancelled.
- Morning departures are generally smoother in rough conditions.
Practical tips
- Arrive at the pier 30 to 45 minutes before departure.
- Tonsai Pier handles foot passengers only. Most accommodation is within walking distance, and longtail taxis serve outlying beaches.
- Confirm the departure pier when you buy your ticket, since Ao Nang has more than one.
- Pack valuables and a light rain layer in a day bag, as large luggage is often stowed outside.
- For a day trip, check the last return sailing before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does it take to get from Ao Nang to Koh Phi Phi?
About 50 minutes to 1 hour by speedboat and around 2 hours by conventional ferry. A minivan and ferry combination takes 2.5 to 3 hours. - How much does the boat cost?
Conventional ferries cost roughly THB 475 to THB 615. Speedboats cost roughly THB 830 to THB 965. - Which pier do boats leave from?
Most direct services depart from Nopparat Thara Pier. Some speedboats use Wang Sai Pier. - Where does the boat arrive?
Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don. - How many departures are there each day?
Usually between one and four, depending on season and operator. The speedboat has typically run in the late morning and mid-afternoon. - Can I take a longtail boat from Ao Nang to Phi Phi?
No. The open-water crossing is served only by speedboats and ferries. - Is the crossing rough in the monsoon season?
It can be, from May to October. Choose a morning sailing and allow flexibility in your plans. - Should I book in advance?
It is advisable from December to March and on public holidays. In the low season, availability is generally easier. - Can I visit Phi Phi as a day trip from Ao Nang?
Yes, by speedboat. Check the last return departure first, as afternoon sailings are limited. - Is hotel pickup included?
Some ferry tickets include it. Speedboat tickets often require you to reach the pier yourself, so confirm when booking.
