How to Get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Island (Ferry, Speedboat & Travel Tips)
Planning how to get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi is one of the first things you’ll need to figure out when organising your Thailand trip. The good news? It’s actually really straightforward!
We made this journey ourselves during our time in Thailand and found it to be one of the easiest parts of our trip. Whether you’re backpacking or on a shorter holiday, there are a couple of simple options to get from Phuket to the Koh Phi Phi Islands.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — including ferry vs speedboat, costs, travel time and a few tips based on our own experience (including what it’s like if you get seasick!).
Quick Answer: Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick version:
- Best option: Ferry
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
- Cost: £10–£30
- Departure point: Rassada Pier (Phuket)
- Arrival point: Tonsai Pier (Koh Phi Phi Don)
Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Distance
Koh Phi Phi is located around 45km from Phuket, out in the Andaman Sea.
There are no flights or roads connecting the two, so the only way to make the journey is by boat, either by ferry or speedboat.
Ferry from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi (Most Popular Option)
Ferry Details
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Cost: Budget-friendly
- Departures: Multiple times per day
- Luggage: Included
The ferry is a large boat with indoor seating and sometimes an outdoor deck, making it a comfortable option for most people.
Our Experience taking the ferry
We actually did this journey ourselves and found it really easy.
On the way to Koh Phi Phi, we booked our tickets through a tourist centre on Patong Beach, which ended up being super convenient. The ticket even included a taxi transfer to the ferrypier, which made the whole process completely stress-free.
On the way back, we booked our ferry online, which was just as straightforward.
Now, I’ll be honest — I get quite seasick, so I was a little nervous about the journey. But luckily, it wasn’t too much of a bumpy trip at all. The sea was fairly calm, and I didn’t struggle nearly as much as I expected.
That said, if you’re worried about seasickness, you can easily buy travel sickness tablets at the pier before boarding, which is a nice backup to have.
Pros and Cons of the Ferry
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Comfortable and spacious
- Easy to organise
- Luggage included
Cons:
- Slower than a speedboat
- Can be busy during peak season
Speedboat from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi (Fastest Option)
If you’re short on time or prefer a quicker journey, you can take a speedboat instead.
Speedboat Details
- Duration: 45–60 minutes
- Cost: More expensive than the ferry
- Experience: Faster but bumpier
Who Should Take a Speedboat?
Speedboats are best for:
- Travellers on a tight schedule
- Day trips to Koh Phi Phi
- Those who don’t mind a slightly rougher ride
If you’re prone to seasickness, I’d personally recommend sticking with the ferry, as speedboats can be quite bumpy.
Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Day Trip
If you don’t want to stay overnight, it’s also possible to visit the Koh Phi Phi Islands as a day trip from Phuket.
These tours usually include:
- Boat transfers
- Snorkelling stops
- Visits to places like Maya Bay, which should be on everyone’s Thailand bucket list!
- Lunch
We’d personally recommend staying at least one night if you can, as it gives you more time to properly enjoy the island. We loved Phi Phi for the nightlife, the snorkelling, the beaches and the amazing restaurants around the island!
Where Do Ferries Leave from in Phuket?
Most ferries depart from Rassada Pier, which is located just outside of Phuket Town.
To get there, you can:
- Take a taxi
- Book a transfer
- Or choose a ticket that includes hotel pickup (like we did)
If you’re staying in areas like Patong, expect the journey to the pier to take around 30–45 minutes.
Arriving in Koh Phi Phi
You’ll arrive at Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don, the main island.
One of the first things you’ll notice is that there are no cars on the island, which adds to its charm. Everything is within walking distance, and it’s easy to get to your hotel on foot.
It’s a pretty cool first impression stepping off the boat straight into island life.
Best Way to Get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
For most people, the ferry is the best option.
- Backpackers / budget travellers: Ferry
- Short trips / day tours: Speedboat
- Seasickness concerns: Ferry (smoother ride)
Based on our experience, we’d definitely choose the ferry again!
How Much Does It Cost?
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Ferry: £10–£20
- Speedboat: £20–£40
- Day tours: £50+
Prices can vary depending on the season and how you book.
Tips for Travelling from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
After doing the journey ourselves, here are a few Thailand tips:
- Book in advance during peak season
- Choose a ticket with a transfer included (makes life easier)
- Sit outside for the best views (if the weather is good)
- Bring snacks and water
- Grab travel sickness tablets at the pier if needed
FAQs: Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
No, you can only travel by boat.
Around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Absolutely — it’s one of the most popular destinations in Thailand for a reason.
Yes, luggage is included with most ferry tickets.
Final Thoughts
Travelling from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi is honestly one of the easiest journeys to organise in Thailand.
Whether you choose the ferry or speedboat, the process is simple, affordable and well set up for travellers. For us, the ferry was the perfect balance of comfort, price and ease — and even as someone who gets seasick, it was a much smoother journey than expected.
If Koh Phi Phi is on your itinerary, it’s 100% worth the trip.
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