Koh Phi Phi to Phuket by Express Boat

Quick, Scenic Transit from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket: What You Need to Know

Traveling between Koh Phi Phi and Phuket doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. For just over $15 per person, you can hop aboard a 2-hour express boat that takes you through the stunning waters of the Andaman Sea straight to Rassada Port in southern Phuket. The ride offers a comfortable, air-conditioned environment—perfect after days of island hopping or beach lounging—and is ideal if you’re looking for a straightforward, no-fuss transfer.

What we love most about this trip is how smooth and scenic the journey is. No stops, no long drives—just a direct cruise with plenty of chances to enjoy the sea views and breathe in the salty air. Plus, it’s a cost-effective solution that includes travel taxes and basic insurance, making it a good value for budget-conscious travelers. On the flip side, keep in mind that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the pier on Koh Phi Phi and from Rassada Port to your accommodation in Phuket.

This service is well-suited for independent travelers, backpackers, or day-trippers who want a quick connection between these popular destinations without the hassle of multiple transfers or lengthy drives. If you’re comfortable organizing your own transport to and from the piers, this could be just the ticket for you.

Key Points

• Fast and direct: The 2-hour express boat gets you from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket without stopovers.
• Cost-effective: At around $15.62, it offers good value, especially with taxes and basic insurance included.
• Scenic views: You’ll enjoy beautiful sea vistas during the ride, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Convenient port locations: Depart from Ao Ton Sai Pier and arrive at Rassada Port, close to Phuket Town.
• No hotel pickup: Travelers need to organize their own transfers to the piers.
• Reliable operation: The service runs daily, accommodating both high and low seasons, making it a dependable choice.

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Phi Phi to Phuket Express Boat Experience

The Departure and Meeting Point

Your journey begins at Ao Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don, a lively hub bustling with boats and travelers. It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure—this gives you time to check in, confirm your ticket, and get comfortable. The staff is generally helpful, but as one traveler noted, during busy times, “total chaos” can break out, so a little patience is wise.

What the Ride Looks Like

Once aboard the well-maintained, air-conditioned ferry, you’ll quickly settle into your seat and start cruising through the clear waters of the Andaman Sea. The ride lasts roughly two hours, which is a perfect amount of time to relax, take in the views, or even catch some sleep. The boat moves at a good pace, and since it’s a direct route with no stopovers, you won’t be spending extra time waiting or transferring.

Travelers report that the scenery is a big highlight. While you’re not stopping at any islands along the way, you do get to enjoy the vast seascape, with chances to snap photos of passing islands and the coastline. The boat’s large windows help make the sea views accessible from every seat.

The Arrival at Rassada Port

Once you arrive at Rassada Port in Phuket, the transition is straightforward. Many travelers mention that getting a taxi from this port to their hotel is easy and inexpensive, which is a big plus. The port is located in the southern part of Phuket Town, making it convenient whether your hotel is in the city or nearby beach areas.

One reviewer commented, “You can easily grab a taxi to your Phuket hotel from Rassada Port,” which is accurate. Just keep in mind that the service does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to and from the piers accordingly.

Refunds and Flexibility

Booking this ferry offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, providing a safety net should your plans change unexpectedly. The service is weather-dependent, so if poor weather leads to cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—an important point since sea conditions can vary.

Real Traveler Experiences

Feedback overall is quite positive, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from five reviews. Javier_V from Spain praised the ferry as “much better than the other company,” appreciating the two-hour ride and good service, despite a minor issue with the barcode scanner. Meanwhile, Tania_G from an unspecified location expressed some confusion and chaos at the pier, especially regarding her remote drop-off destination. This highlights the importance of clear communication and confirming your drop-off address well in advance.

What You Should Know Before Booking

• Price: At $15.62, this service offers excellent value for a quick, scenic transfer. For those who want to avoid more expensive speedboat options or long bus rides, it’s a smart choice.
• Duration: The 2-hour trip balances speed with comfort—it’s not rushed, but fast enough to save time.
• Included: Basic travel insurance and all taxes are included, saving you from hidden costs.
• Not included: You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the pier on Koh Phi Phi and from Rassada Port to your hotel.
• Departure and arrival points: Conveniently located at Ao Ton Sai Pier and Rassada Port.
• Frequency: Daily operation means flexible scheduling, regardless of high or low season.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

Travelers seeking a cost-effective, reliable, and scenic transfer between Koh Phi Phi and Phuket will find this service hits the spot. It’s perfect for independent travelers or small groups comfortable with organizing their own ground transport, especially those who value time savings and a comfortable environment. If you’re traveling with minimal luggage, or just looking for a stress-free way to get from island to mainland, this express boat offers a good balance of convenience and beauty.

The Sum Up

For a modest price, this 2-hour express boat offers an efficient and scenic route from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket. The combination of fast transit, beautiful views, and included taxes and insurance makes it a practical choice for many travelers. While it’s true that hotel pickup isn’t included, the ease of getting to and from the ports compensates, especially since the ferry ride itself is a highlight.

If you’re someone who appreciates direct routes with minimal hassle and loves the idea of traveling by boat in the bright blue waters of the Andaman Sea, then this service is worth considering. It suits those on a budget or with a flexible schedule who want a dependable, no-frills transfer with the added bonus of sea views.

FAQ

Do I need to arrive early for the ferry?
Yes, it’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in and get comfortable.

Is travel insurance included?
Yes, basic travel insurance is included in the ticket price.

Are there stopovers?
No, this is a direct, non-stop route from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the departure time.

Does the ferry operate year-round?
Yes, the service runs daily during high and low seasons.

What should I do upon arriving at Rassada Port?
You can easily grab a taxi to your hotel from the port—no pre-arranged transfer needed.

Is this the fastest way to get from Phi Phi to Phuket?
Yes, this 2-hour express boat is a quick and direct option compared to other transport methods.

Do I need to worry about weather cancellations?
If the weather is poor, the trip might be canceled, but you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This ferry ride is a solid choice for travelers wanting a simple, scenic, and affordable connection between two of Thailand’s most popular islands. It’s not a luxury cruise, but for what it costs, it offers a genuine taste of sea travel and the chance to enjoy some of the best views the Andaman Sea has to offer.