Ferry from Phi Phi Islands to Phuket with Dropoff Service by Royal Jet Cruiser

A Practical Guide to the Ferry from Phi Phi Islands to Phuket with Dropoff Service

Traveling between the Phi Phi Islands and Phuket just got easier thanks to the ferry service offered by Royal Jet Cruiser. For around $15 per person, you’ll get a 1.5 to 2-hour scenic ride on a speedboat, with the convenience of pre-booked tickets and hotel drop-offs in popular Phuket neighborhoods such as Patong, Karon, Kata, and Phuket Town. The experience is straightforward, making it an appealing option for travelers who want comfort and peace of mind without the chaos of trying to arrange transport on the fly.

What we really appreciate about this service is the organized check-in process—the staff are efficient, and the large ferry offers comfortable seating, even if it can get quite busy. Plus, the included bottled water and life jackets add a touch of safety and comfort, especially for those new to boat travel. On the downside, some may find the ferry journey slightly longer than a speedboat, and the interior can be quite cold—so bring a sweater. This tour suits travelers who value a reliable, smooth transfer and prefer to avoid the hassle of arranging separate transport after arrival.

If you’re looking for a simple, stress-free way to move between Phi Phi and Phuket with minimal fuss, this service could be ideal. It also offers the convenience of hotel drop-off, which is a real plus after a day of island hopping or sightseeing.

Key Points

• Comfortable large ferry with organized staff makes check-in and boarding smooth.
• Hotel drop-off in multiple Phuket areas adds convenience, especially after a long day.
• Pre-booking guarantees your seat, avoiding last-minute surprises or sold-out boats.
• The journey lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, offering scenic views along the way.
• Bottled water and life jackets are provided for safety and refreshment.
• Some travelers noted the interior can be quite cold, so packing a sweater is wise.

The Complete Experience: What to Expect

Starting Your Journey: Check-in at Tonsai Pier

Your day begins at the bustling Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don, where you’ll check in about 20 minutes before departure. The process is generally efficient, with staff guiding you smoothly onto the ferry. Expect a large, comfortable vessel designed to accommodate numerous passengers, getting you to Phuket without the rush and chaos often associated with island transfers.

The Ferry Ride: Scenic, Comfortable, but Not Speedy

Once aboard, you’ll settle into your seat, perhaps noticing the very busy but well-organized nature of the crew. As Darren from reviews pointed out, “It was quite a large ferry with comfortable seats, but very busy.” The ferry is a speedboat, so it’s a lively, scenic ride across turquoise waters. While the journey takes longer than a speedboat, it offers a more relaxed experience and space to stretch out.

In-Transit Comfort and Safety

The ferry provides life jackets and bottled water, which add a layer of reassurance. The interior can get quite cold—many travelers, like Kamal, found it necessary to bring sweaters. The cruise’s size means plenty of seating, so even if it’s crowded, you should find room to sit comfortably. The reviews indicate that most travelers appreciated the organized boarding process and the relaxed atmosphere during the crossing.

Arrival at Rassada Pier and Transfer to Your Hotel

Upon reaching Rassada Pier in Phuket, the service includes van transfer to your hotel or designated drop-off point in popular areas like Patong, Karon, Kata, or Phuket Town. Reviewers consistently praised this part of the experience: “Seamless transition,” said Zoheb, highlighting that the hotel drop-off made the entire journey hassle-free. Some reviewers, like Daniel, noted that extra charges might apply if your hotel is farther out or in less common locations.

Considerations for the Dropoff

You should leave a message with your hotel name when booking to ensure proper transfer arrangements. Keep in mind that additional charges may apply for drop-offs at Phuket Airport or in more remote areas such as Kamala, Bangtao, Surin, or Naiyang Beach.

The Overall Value and Who it Suits

For around $14.75, this ferry service offers good value for money, especially for travelers prioritizing comfort, reliability, and hotel convenience. The reviews consistently point out that the organized staff and smooth transfers add up to a stress-free experience—ideal if you’re tired after a day on the islands or just prefer to relax during your ride.

Why Choose This Trip?

This ferry service is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a reliable transfer with minimal fuss, especially if they’re staying in key Phuket areas. The added hotel drop-off makes it perfect for those who value time-saving arrangements and prefer to avoid the hassle of arranging separate transport. The overall comfort and safety features also make it a good choice for families, older travelers, or anyone new to boat travel.

Final Thoughts

This ferry from Phi Phi Islands to Phuket is a solid choice for those wanting a comfortable, organized, and reasonably priced transfer. While it’s not the fastest option—if speed is your priority, a speedboat might suit better—it compensates with ease and peace of mind. The large, comfortable ferry, combined with hotel drop-off in Phuket, reduces stress for travelers who dislike navigating unfamiliar transport systems or juggling multiple bookings.

We loved the way the staff coordinated the boarding and transfer process, making it straightforward from start to finish. The inclusion of bottled water and life jackets is a thoughtful touch, especially in a tropical climate. However, be prepared for a potentially chilly interior and consider bringing a sweater or jacket to stay comfortable.

This service truly shines for those seeking a reliable, well-organized way to get from Phi Phi to Phuket without surprises. It’s especially good if you’re tired after island hopping or want a stress-free way to arrive ready to explore Phuket’s beaches, markets, and nightlife.

FAQs

How long does the ferry from Phi Phi to Phuket take?
The ferry journey lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions and the specific route.

What does the ticket include?
Your ticket covers the ferry ride, life jackets, and bottled water. It also includes hotel drop-off in select Phuket areas, but extra charges may apply for certain locations.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 15 days in advance is recommended to secure your seat, as the service is popular among travelers.

Where do I check in for the ferry?
Check-in occurs at Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don, about 20 minutes before departure. Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.

Is there a restroom or facilities onboard?
While not explicitly stated, large ferries generally have basic facilities, but it’s best to bring water and a small snack if desired.

Will I be dropped off at the hotel?
Yes, the service includes hotel drop-offs at many Phuket locations. Be sure to inform the staff of your hotel name when booking.

Are there any extra charges I should be aware of?
Extra fees may apply for drop-offs at the airport or more remote areas like Kamala or Naiyang Beach.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sweater or jacket for the cool interior, a small bag with essentials, and a camera to capture the views.

To sum it up, the ferry from Phi Phi Islands to Phuket with hotel drop-off by Royal Jet Cruiser is an easy, comfortable, and reasonably priced way to move between these popular destinations. It suits travelers who prioritize reliability and convenience over speed, offering a stress-free transition with well-organized staff, safety features, and hotel drop-offs. Whether you’re returning from a day of exploring Phi Phi or heading to Phuket for your next adventure, this service provides peace of mind and comfort—making travel between islands just a little simpler.