Phi Phi Island to Krabi Town by Ferry

Exploring the Phi Phi Island to Krabi Town Ferry Experience

Traveling between Thailand’s stunning Phi Phi Islands and Krabi Town by ferry is one of those essential journeys for anyone exploring this part of Southeast Asia. While we haven’t personally taken this exact route, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option offering beautiful sea views and reliable schedules — perfect for those who want to keep logistics simple.

What we love about this ferry service is its affordable price of just under $19 per person, its reliable punctuality, and the flexibility of four daily departure times. The fact that you can book in advance ensures peace of mind, especially during busy seasons. One of the key highlights is the convenient drop-off at Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi, which is well connected to local transportation options. However, a potential drawback is that there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your own way to Tonsai Pier — a detail worth noting for travelers with luggage or tight schedules.

This ferry experience suits travelers looking for cost-effective, reliable transportation that avoids the hassle of arranging separate boat or taxi options. It’s particularly ideal for those who value punctuality and want to skip the stress of last-minute bookings. If you prefer direct, scenic sea crossings over complex transfers, this service is a practical choice. Now, let’s take a closer look at what makes this ferry route a smart option for your Thai trip.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: At around $19, it offers good value for a scenic, 90-minute sea journey.
• Scheduled reliability: Four daily departures ensure flexibility, with excellent punctuality reported.
• Booking in advance: Secures your seat and reduces stress, especially during peak seasons.
• Limited drop-off options: Only drops at Klong Jilad Pier, requiring additional transportation for your final destination.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations are possible due to sea conditions, but full refunds are available.
• No hotel pickup: Travelers must reach Tonsai Pier on their own, so plan accordingly.

The Route: From Tonsai Pier to Klong Jilad Pier

The journey between Koh Phi Phi and Krabi is about 90 minutes — a comfortable cruise across the Andaman Sea. The ferry departs from Tonsai Pier in Phi Phi Don, which is centrally located and easy to reach if you’re staying on the island. The ride itself is typically smooth, but during September and October, the seas can get a little choppier, according to reviews.

Travelers often mention the ferry’s punctuality as a plus — “The punctuality was excellent,” one reviewer noted. This means you can plan your day in Krabi without the worry of last-minute delays. The boat is described as a “normal boat,” respecting the scheduled times, which is a relief for those who dislike unexpected changes.

Once you arrive at Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi, you’re at a major transportation hub. This pier is the gateway not just to Krabi Town but also to Ao Nang and surrounding areas, with multiple transport options readily available. This convenience is appreciated by travelers eager to continue their journey without fuss.

What to Expect During the Ferry Ride

The ferry service runs year-round, with four departures daily in high and low seasons, offering a good deal of flexibility. While most of the year provides relatively smooth sailing, travelers should be prepared for slightly rougher seas in September and October — a detail noted by reviewers who experienced a bit of choppiness.

The check-in process is straightforward: Arrive 30 minutes before departure at Tonsai Pier, and show your mobile ticket. Since the tickets are shared, you’ll be traveling with other passengers, usually in a group of up to 100 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not overly crowded.

One revealing review mentioned that although the ferry “did its no-frills job,” the lack of a drop-off service to town was a point of confusion — “Viator is wrong here when they say that transfer is included in the ticket price.” So, expect to organize your own transport from Klong Jilad Pier into Krabi Town or Ao Nang, which can involve a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride.

The Practicalities: Booking, Timing, and Cost

Booking this ferry is straightforward through platforms like Viator, with most travelers booking around 76 days in advance — indicating its popularity, especially during peak seasons. The ticket price of $18.88 offers a great balance of affordability and comfort, especially considering the scenic views you’ll enjoy during the crossing.

The four daily departures allow travelers to fit this transfer into their schedules without hassle. The duration of approximately 1 hour to 1.5 hours makes it a quick and efficient way to get from Phi Phi to Krabi, especially compared to longer land routes or multiple taxi rides.

While the ferry doesn’t include hotel pickups, the location at Tonsai Pier is convenient for most accommodations on Phi Phi. Remember, you’ll need to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and avoid missing the boat.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that punctuality is a standout feature. One traveler praised the ferry’s timeliness, calling it “excellent,” which is crucial when coordinating onward plans in Krabi. Another mentioned that the ferry is “respectful of time,” a rarity in Southeast Asian transport.

Luggage management is a minor concern — one reviewer highlighted the stacked luggage as a safety issue if there’s something fragile inside. If you’re traveling with lots of bags, it’s wise to keep valuables close and be cautious during boarding.

Some travelers experienced issues with last-minute schedule changes or ticket confusion, especially during COVID-19 transitions. It seems the ferry service has adapted, but it’s worth double-checking your departure time and ticket validity, especially if booking close to your travel date.

The Value and Who It’s For

Given its affordable price, consistent schedule, and reliable punctuality, this ferry service offers solid value for budget travelers or those wanting a hassle-free transfer. It’s best suited for travelers who:

• Want a cost-effective way to cross between Phi Phi and Krabi without the need for private transfers.
• Appreciate scenic sea views during the 90-minute ride.
• Prefer organized, pre-booked transport to avoid last-minute planning.
• Are comfortable with self-arranged transportation from Klong Jilad Pier to their accommodation.

However, if you’re carrying heavy luggage or have tight schedules, prepare to make your own arrangements from Klong Jilad Pier to your final destination. The lack of hotel pickup and direct drop-off to specific hotels might add a small extra step to your journey.

The Sum Up

This ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi Town balances affordability, reliability, and scenic appeal, making it a popular choice for many travelers exploring the Thai coast. It’s especially suitable for those who value punctuality and simplicity over added luxuries or direct hotel transfers.

While not the fastest or most luxurious option, its consistent schedule and easy booking process make it a trustworthy choice for most travelers. Just remember to arrive early, prepare for a self-organized transfer from the pier, and keep an eye on weather conditions during September and October.

All in all, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, dependable sea crossing with lovely views, this ferry service offers a straightforward, no-nonsense way to travel between Phi Phi Islands and Krabi. It’s a good fit for independent travelers and those who want to keep their travel plans flexible and affordable.

FAQs

Is there a hotel pickup included in this ferry service?
No, the ferry does not include hotel pickup. You need to travel to Tonsai Pier in Phi Phi Don on your own.

How many times a day does the ferry operate?
The ferry runs four times daily, year-round, providing flexibility for travelers.

Can I book the ferry in advance?
Yes, you can book your ticket in advance, which helps guarantee your seat and avoid last-minute stress.

What is the duration of the ferry ride?
The journey takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The service may be postponed or canceled due to poor weather or sea conditions, with full refunds offered if canceled.

Does the ferry drop me directly at my hotel?
No, it only drops at Klong Jilad Pier, from where you will need to arrange your own transportation to your accommodation.

What should I arrive with?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in your mobile ticket and board on time.

Is the ferry suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with heavy luggage or mobility issues should plan their onward transfer accordingly.

What is the price of the ferry?
The ticket costs around $18.88 per person, offering good value for the scenic, reliable ride.