Ferries and speedboats connect Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) with Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara in Krabi Province every day, generally between 08:45 and 17:00. The fastest crossings take about 40 to 60 minutes. Combined ferry-and-van tickets, which include a transfer to your accommodation, can take 1.5 to 3 hours depending on connections and stops. This guide covers the timetable, journey times, fares and practical advice for planning the crossing.
Typical Departure Times
The schedule below is indicative. Exact times vary by date, season and operator, so confirm your sailing before you travel.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:45 | approx. 10:25-10:45 | 1 hr 40 min to 2 hrs | Ferry with van transfer |
| 10:30 | approx. 11:30 | 1 hr | Bundhaya speedboat/ferry combination |
| 12:00 | approx. 13:00 | 1 hr | Tigerline Travel |
| 13:00 | approx. 14:00 | 1 hr | Koh Yao Sun Smile ferry |
| 13:30 | 14:10 | 40 min | Fastest listed service |
| 14:30 | 16:30 | 2 hrs | Direct ferry |
| 15:30 | approx. 16:30 | 1 hr | Andaman Wave Master ferry |
| 17:00 | approx. 18:45 | 1 hr 45 min | Railay Eco Tour ferry with van transfer |
Journey Time and Route
- Fastest option: speedboats and fast direct services take about 40 to 50 minutes.
- Standard ferry: most direct sailings take about 1 hour. The 14:30 direct ferry is an exception, at around 2 hours.
- Longer options: tickets that include hotel or town van transfers, or intermediate stops, commonly take 2 to 3 hours.
- Departure pier: services leave from Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi. Some northern services may use Laem Tong Beach.
- Arrival area: boats arrive at Ao Nang Beach or Nopparat Thara Pier. Check which one your ticket uses, particularly if your hotel is at one end of Ao Nang.
Ticket Prices
Boat tickets generally cost THB 590 to THB 900 or more per adult, depending on the operator, the vessel and whether a hotel transfer is included. Examples from two operators:
- 14:30 direct ferry: THB 615 per adult, with child fares of THB 435 to THB 450.
- Another operator’s 14:30 service: THB 650 per adult and THB 450 per child.
Booking and Practical Tips
- Arrive early. Check in at least 30 minutes before departure at Tonsai Pier. One operator requires this and limits luggage to 20 kg.
- Book ahead in high season. Preferred sailings can sell out between roughly November and April.
- Travel in the morning where possible. Seas are typically calmer from November to April. Outside these months, services can be choppier and less frequent.
- Choose your vessel according to conditions. Speedboats are quicker, but ferries are steadier in rough seas, and speedboats are more likely to be cancelled in poor weather.
- Avoid the 17:00 departure if you have an onward connection. It reaches Ao Nang at about 18:45 and leaves little margin for delays.
For a balance of speed, reliability and price, the 13:00 or 15:30 direct one-hour ferry is usually the simplest choice. If you need the fastest crossing, take the 13:30 service, which takes 40 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang take?
Direct ferries take about 1 hour, and the fastest services take 40 to 50 minutes. Tickets that include van transfers or stops can take 1.5 to 3 hours.
2. What time does the first boat leave Koh Phi Phi for Ao Nang?
The earliest listed departure is at 08:45, a ferry with a van transfer.
3. What time does the last boat leave?
The last listed departure is at 17:00. It arrives at about 18:45, so it is best avoided if you have a connection to make.
4. How much does the ticket cost?
Expect about THB 590 to THB 900 or more per adult. For example, THB 615 for a 14:30 direct ferry, or THB 650 on another operator’s 14:30 service.
5. Are there child fares?
Yes. Child fares of THB 435 to THB 450 are listed for 14:30 services.
6. Which pier do boats leave from?
Most services depart from Tonsai Pier. Some northern services may use Laem Tong Beach.
7. Where do the boats arrive?
At Ao Nang Beach or Nopparat Thara Pier. Check your ticket, as your hotel may be closer to one of them.
8. How early should I arrive at the pier?
At least 30 minutes before departure. Luggage may be limited to 20 kg with some operators.
9. Do I need to book in advance?
Booking ahead is advisable in high season (roughly November to April), when popular sailings can sell out. Schedules are indicative and can change by date and operator.
10. Is a speedboat or a ferry better?
Speedboats are faster, but ferries are steadier in rough seas. Speedboats are also more likely to be cancelled in poor weather, so a ferry is the safer choice outside the calmer season.
