Ao Nang to Phuket by Ao Nang Princess Ferry

Ao Nang to Phuket by Ao Nang Princess Ferry: A Practical Guide

Traveling between Ao Nang and Phuket doesn’t have to be a hassle — especially if you opt for the Ao Nang Princess Ferry. For around $28.23 per person, you get a 2-hour 18-minute ride through Phang Nga Bay, with the added benefit of hotel pickups and drop-offs. This is one of the quickest ways to transfer between these two popular destinations, making it a favorite for travelers who want to save time and enjoy delightful sea views.

What we love about this experience is how straightforward and relaxing the journey is. The ferry offers stunning vistas of the bay, and the hotel transfers mean you won’t have to worry about navigating busy roads or arranging separate transport. Plus, the onboard amenities, like restrooms and open-air decks, add comfort to the trip.

That said, it’s worth noting some travelers have experienced delays or issues with booking, so flexibility is advisable. This transfer works best for those who appreciate a value-packed, scenic, and hassle-free journey. If you’re looking for a smooth and efficient way to hop from Ao Nang to Phuket, with a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and views, this could be your best bet.

Key Points

• Convenient service: Hotel pickup in Ao Nang and drop-off in Phuket make this an easy door-to-door option.
• Scenic journey: Cruising across Phang Nga Bay offers memorable views and photo opportunities.
• Fastest option: This ferry is typically the quickest way to reach Phuket from Ao Nang.
• Variable reliability: Some reviews mention delays or issues with pick-up times, so flexibility is wise.
• Great value: For under $30, you get a substantial ride with comfortable amenities and scenic beauty.
• Adaptability: The transfer may switch to a speedboat if sea conditions or passenger numbers change.

Detailed Review: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Traveling from Ao Nang to Phuket by ferry is a popular choice because it combines convenience, scenery, and affordability. Here’s a detailed look at what the experience entails and how it fits into your travel plans.

The Itinerary: From Hotel to Ferry to Your Phuket Hotel

Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang, or Tubkaek Beach. This door-to-door service is a big plus for travelers wanting to avoid the hassle of finding transportation to a bus or pier. Most reviews mention prompt pickups, although some have experienced delays, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule.

Once picked up, you’ll be driven to Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang. Here, you’ll board the Ao Nang Princess Ferry, a sizable vessel that’s designed for comfort and efficiency. The ferry itself is described as a “very nice big ferry” by one traveler, providing a sturdy platform to enjoy your journey across the Andaman Sea. The ferry departs daily, with a trip duration of about 2.5 hours, but keep in mind that actual travel times can vary.

A notable feature of this ferry trip is the stop at Railay Beach to pick up additional passengers. This stop is convenient if you’re staying nearby, but it also means the journey isn’t strictly point-to-point, adding a bit of unpredictability. From there, you cruise across Phang Nga Bay, with views that many reviewers say are “spectacular” or “amazing” — expect plenty of photo ops.

What You’ll See and Do on the Ferry

While onboard, you can choose to sit inside or enjoy the open-air deck. The open sections are perfect for breathing in the sea breeze and snapping photos of limestone cliffs and distant islands. The views are often highlighted as a key highlight — “the sunset coming into Phuket harbor is amazing,” one traveler notes.

The ferry is equipped with restrooms and some onboard amenities, making the journey comfortable. You might find the experience more like a large, modern cruise rather than a cramped boat ride, which appeals to those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere at sea.

Arrival and Transfer in Phuket

Once you arrive at Rassada Port, the transfer continues with a hotel drop-off in Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, or Chalong. Here, some reviews mention a seamless handoff, with the driver courteous and the transfer straightforward. Others highlight that delays can cascade into late arrivals, sometimes over an hour past the scheduled time.

One traveler summarized: “Took about 4.5 hours door-to-door,” which is a bit longer than the advertised 2 hours 18 minutes. This discrepancy is often due to ferry schedules, sea conditions, or waiting for additional pickups. As such, the journey is better suited to those with a flexible schedule who don’t mind a longer, scenic ride.

Why It’s a Good Value

At around $28, this transfer offers an affordable alternative to flying or private taxis. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and the ferry ride itself provides stunning sea views and a relaxing atmosphere. Several reviews praise the good value, with one describing it as “relaxing and economical,” perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, some travelers mention delays, poor communication, or overcrowding. For instance, a few reviews highlight late pickups or missed ferries, which can cause stress if you’re on a strict schedule. Plus, some complain about additional charges for certain drop-off locations or overcrowding during busy periods.

It’s also worth noting that in bad weather, the ferry can be delayed, postponed, or even canceled, with refunds offered. So, if your travel dates are flexible, this is a good option, but if you’re on a tight schedule, be prepared for possible changes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This transfer is ideal for budget travelers who value scenic beauty and convenience over precise timing. It suits those wanting a relaxing sea voyage with stunning views of Phang Nga Bay, and who are comfortable with occasional delays. It’s also perfect if you’re staying in Ao Nang or Phuket and prefer an all-in-one solution without arranging separate transportation.

Final Thoughts

Traveling from Ao Nang to Phuket by ferry with Ao Nang Princess offers a scenic, affordable, and relatively quick way to move between these beloved destinations. The views of limestone karsts and islands are a highlight, making the journey more than just transportation — it’s part of the adventure.

The hotel pickup and drop-off make life easier, especially after a long day of sightseeing or beach lounging. While delays and overcrowding are occasional issues, most travelers find the experience enjoyable and worthwhile. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing value, comfort, and scenic views.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic transfer that won’t break the bank and can handle a little unpredictability, this ferry ride fits the bill nicely. Just plan for some extra time, stay flexible, and enjoy the spectacular vistas of Thailand’s Andaman Sea.

FAQs

How long does the ferry ride from Ao Nang to Phuket take?
Approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, but actual times may vary due to sea conditions or schedule changes.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most bookings include pickup from your hotel in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang, or Tubkaek Beach.

Where does the ferry arrive in Phuket?
The ferry docks at Rassada Port, from where you will be transferred to your hotel in Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, or Chalong.

What amenities are available on the ferry?
Most ferries have restrooms and open-air decks for sightseeing and photos.

Can I sit outside during the trip?
Yes, the open-air deck is available and highly recommended for the best views.

What if sea conditions are bad?
The transfer may be delayed, postponed, or canceled, with a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Are there extra charges I should be aware of?
There may be additional charges for excess luggage or certain remote hotel drop-offs, as noted in reviews.

Is this transfer suitable for elderly or mobility-impaired travelers?
Many reviews mention helpful staff and a comfortable ride, but some delays or crowded conditions could be less ideal for those with mobility issues.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 45 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

Traveling from Ao Nang to Phuket by ferry with Ao Nang Princess is a practical choice blending scenic beauty, cost-effectiveness, and convenience—perfect for travelers looking for a memorable sea voyage without the hassle of plane or long road transfers.