Koh Lanta to Phuket by Ao Nang Princess Ferry

<h3 id="section-0">Introduction

Traveling from Koh Lanta to Phuket by ferry offers a practical way to hop between these stunning islands, and this particular service on the Ao Nang Princess gets a mixed but insightful reputation. We’ve looked into what travelers appreciate—and what they might wish had gone differently—to give you a balanced view.

What we love about this experience:
First, the scenic views along the Andaman Sea are hard to beat—cruising on a comfortable, air-conditioned ferry makes the journey more enjoyable. Second, the convenience of pre-booking, especially with hotel pickup options, helps avoid last-minute stress. Third, the drop-off options at various Phuket locations mean you can be delivered right to your hotel, saving time and hassle.

The one possible downside: some reviews mention that the ferry’s condition might not always match expectations, with some noting the vessels look older than the promotional images suggest. Plus, the journey can take slightly longer than anticipated, with reports of 4+ hours on board.

This service suits travelers who value comfort and convenience, especially during high season, and those who prefer a relaxed, scenic transfer over speedboats or more hurried options.

Key Points

• Comfortable, air-conditioned ferry offers a more relaxed journey than speedboats.
• Pre-booking ensures hassle-free pickup and transfer planning.
• Multiple drop-off points in Phuket make the experience flexible.
• Limited high season operation means planning ahead is crucial.
• Some travelers find the ferry older than expected, so manage expectations.
• Trip duration is approximately 3 hours 48 minutes, with some reviews noting it can stretch beyond four hours.

The Experience of Traveling from Koh Lanta to Phuket

Why choose this ferry service?

Travelers often prefer this ferry for its air-conditioned comfort and the chance to enjoy the vistas of the Andaman Sea without the rush of speedboats. The experience is less about adrenaline and more about relaxing while taking in the scenery. Plus, the ability to pre-arrange pickup from your hotel or meet at Saladan Pier simplifies logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation.

Booking and Planning

The process begins with booking at least a few weeks in advance—on average, 48 days ahead—highlighting its popularity. The price is set at $36.90 per person, which, when considering the comfort and convenience, offers decent value, especially during the busy high season.

After booking, you’ll receive email confirmation with your pickup time. Pickups generally occur from hotels located near the main roads of Koh Lanta, which means if you stay in a more remote area, you might need to arrange transportation to your pickup point.

Departure and Boarding

Your journey starts at Saladan Pier in the north of Koh Lanta, with a departure time around 1:30 pm. The ferry departs with a short stopover in Ao Nang to pick up or drop off other guests—this makes the journey a bit more social and flexible, but also means the trip can stretch beyond the scheduled time.

The ferry itself is described as comfortable and air-conditioned, making the roughly 3 hour 48-minute trip more pleasant than a speedboat in choppy waters. Reviewers mention that the ferry, while functional, may not be as visually modern as some promotional pictures suggest—some noted it looked older, which could be a letdown if expecting newer vessels.

Scenic Views and Onboard Experience

As you cruise along, you’ll likely enjoy views of limestone cliffs, islands, and the calm sea. Several reviewers mention the scenery as a highlight, especially when the weather is clear. However, some travelers have reported that the actual vessels can appear somewhat aged, and in one review, the ferry’s appearance differed from promotional images.

The onboard amenities include a small bar, which adds a relaxed vibe to the trip. The staff are generally described as helpful and cheerful, making boarding and disembarking smoother.

Arrival and Drop-Off in Phuket

Rassada Port

Once in Phuket, the ferry docks at Rassada Port, which is in the southern part of Phuket Town. From there, a free transfer service is available to your hotel, whether you’re staying in Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, or Kata Beach.

Multiple travelers appreciated the seamless transfer, noting that the drop-off was straightforward and saved them additional transportation arrangements. As one reviewer mentioned, the staff were cheerful and helpful, assisting with bulky backpacks and even a forgotten pushchair, demonstrating the crew’s friendly attitude.

Timing and Flexibility

The service operates during high season only—November through April—which aligns with the best weather window for such sea crossings. Since the departure time is fixed at 1:30 pm, it’s best to plan your day accordingly.

Real Traveler Insights

Looking through the reviews, a common thread emerges: the journey is largely considered relaxing and scenic, though not without some hiccups. One traveler noted, “The transfer was very well organized and the staff helpful and friendly.” On the flip side, another mentioned that “the ferry in the picture looked much newer than the actual ones we road,” which shows that expectations about vessel condition may vary.

A traveler who opted for the ferry expressed that it provided a peaceful ride compared to speedboats—which can be more turbulent—and appreciated the prompt pickup from their hotel. However, some found the trip to be longer than anticipated, taking over four hours, which could be a consideration for those on a tight schedule.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: Departing in the early afternoon means you’ll arrive in Phuket late in the day, so plan your accommodation accordingly.
• Cost vs. Value: At $36.90, the price is reasonable given the comfort and scenic experience, especially compared to more expensive speedboat alternatives.
• Weather Dependence: The service only runs during high season, and poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling.
• Group Size: Limited to 400 travelers, so it’s a popular but not overcrowded option.
• What to Bring: Light snacks, water, and a camera for the views are recommended. The ferry’s onboard bar can help pass the time.
• What to Expect: A smooth, relaxed journey, but manage expectations about vessel condition and travel time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ferry is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and scenic views over speed, especially during high season. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the chaos of speedboats, or if you’re traveling with family and prefer a calmer, more stable ride. Those with flexible schedules will appreciate the hotel pickup options and the convenience of arriving directly near their accommodation.

If you’re staying in Koh Lanta and want a straightforward transfer to Phuket without the fuss of multiple transfers or last-minute arrangements, this service is worth considering. However, if you’re in a rush or expecting ultra-modern vessels, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup from your Koh Lanta hotel or at Saladan Pier is included. The exact time will be confirmed by email after booking.

What are the drop-off points in Phuket?
Drop-offs are available at hotels in Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, and Kata Beach, with a free transfer from Rassada Port.

When does the ferry operate?
It operates during the high season, from November to April, with a scheduled departure at 1:30 pm.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The approximate duration is 3 hours 48 minutes, but some travelers report it can extend beyond four hours.

What should I expect onboard?
A comfortable, air-conditioned vessel with amenities like a small bar and helpful staff. Views of the sea and islands are highlights.

Is the vessel new and modern?
Not necessarily. Some reviews suggest the ferry may look older than images, so temper expectations if vessel appearance matters to you.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before departure are non-refundable.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The service only operates in good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers found it suitable, especially those seeking a relaxed trip with scenic views.

How does this compare to other transfer options?
Compared to speedboats, this ferry offers a calmer ride, but it might take longer and the vessel might be older.

Final Thoughts

Traveling from Koh Lanta to Phuket on the Ao Nang Princess ferry is a reliable way to enjoy the journey without rushing. It offers a comfortable, scenic ride that’s well-suited for travelers who value ease and onboard comfort, especially during high season. While the vessel might not be the newest, the convenience of pre-booked pickup, hotel drop-offs, and the chance to relax while taking in sea views make it a worthwhile choice.

This transfer is particularly good for families, slow-paced travelers, or those who prefer a scenic route over speed. Keep in mind the approximate travel time and seasonal operation, and you’ll find this service aligns well with a relaxed Thailand island-hopping itinerary.

Happy sailing and safe travels!