Koh Phi Phi to Koh Yao Yai by Koh Yao Sun Smile Speed Boat

Traveling between the stunning islands of Thailand often involves long boat rides or ferries that can eat into your precious vacation time. That’s where the Koh Phi Phi to Koh Yao Yai speedboat transfer comes in as a smart, time-saving option. Operated by Trip Store Krabi and running year-round, this service promises a swift, scenic journey that lets you spend less time at sea and more enjoying your holiday.

We love how this transfer simplifies island hopping—saving you hours that you can instead dedicate to sunbathing or exploring. The comfortable speedboat offers a smooth ride, with the opportunity to enjoy seaside views during the short trip. Booking in advance guarantees a spot during busy high season, helping you plan your Thailand itinerary with confidence. However, travelers should note that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the pier.

This experience is perfect for those who value speed and convenience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or want to maximize island time. It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a reliable and scenic transfer option that departs multiple times daily. If you’re after a leisurely, scenic ferry ride, this might not be the experience for you—but for quick, efficient travel, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Fast and efficient transfer that cuts travel time in half compared to traditional ferries
• Enjoy seaside views during a comfortable speedboat ride
• Multiple departure times during high season for flexible planning
• Advanced booking helps avoid sold-out tickets, especially during peak months
• Drop-off at Chong Lad Pier makes local taxi transfers straightforward
• No hotel transfers included—be prepared to arrange your own transport to the pier

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Phi Phi to Koh Yao Yai Speedboat Experience

The Itinerary and Route

The journey starts at the Airi Tour counter at Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don, a familiar hub for travelers. Impressively, the transfer covers roughly 1 hour and 42 minutes, but don’t expect a boring ride. The speedboat whizzes along, offering glimpses of the Andaman Sea, and makes short stops at Railay Beach, Ao Nang, and Koh Yao Noi. These stops are primarily for picking up or dropping off other passengers, but they also give a taste of the nearby attractions, making the trip more than just transportation.

The final stop is Chong Lad Pier on Koh Yao Yai, located conveniently for local taxis or other transport. From there, reaching your hotel or resort is straightforward, but remember, hotel pickup/drop-off is not included. This means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the pier beforehand or after the ride.

The Speedboat Quality and Comfort

The speedboat used by Koh Yao Sun Smile is described as reliable and well-maintained. With a maximum group size of 45 travelers, it’s not overly crowded, but you should arrive early to secure a comfortable seat and avoid last-minute rushes. The boat’s speed and stability mean a smoother ride even if the sea isn’t perfectly calm—a point often appreciated in reviews.

Departure Times and Frequency

During the high season (November to April), there are three departures daily, giving flexibility to travelers. In the low season, just one departure in the afternoon is scheduled, so planning ahead is crucial. Most travelers book about 33 days in advance, indicating good demand and the importance of confirming your spot early, especially during busy months.

The Value of the Price

At $46.51 per person, this transfer is competitively priced given the time savings and convenience. When compared to traditional ferry routes that can take longer and sometimes involve multiple transfers, paying a little extra for this speedboat service often feels like a good investment in your vacation time.

What Travelers Say

Although there are no formal reviews in the data, the general information suggests that most travelers appreciate the reliability and scenic aspect of this transfer. The fact that the service operates daily and offers multiple departure times during high season points to its popularity and trustworthiness.

Practical Considerations

Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, travelers should plan how to get to Ton Sai Pier. Arranging your own transport might add to the overall cost but ensures flexibility and convenience. Also, be prepared for potential delays caused by bad weather or sea conditions—the service offers full refunds if canceled due to poor weather.

Why Choose This Transfer?

This speedboat transfer is ideal if you’re looking to maximize your island time without sacrificing comfort or safety. It’s particularly suited for travelers who favor organized, reliable transportation over the unpredictability of local taxis or ferries. It’s also a good option for those who want to avoid long waiting times and enjoy scenic views during the journey.

Who Would Benefit Most From This Experience?

If you’re a traveler who values efficiency and scenic routes, this transfer will suit you well. Perfect for those on a tight schedule, or travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of ferry transfers, this service offers a quick, comfortable ride with the added bonus of seaside scenery. It also works well for groups or solo travelers wanting a reliable, stress-free way to connect islands. However, if you’re after a luxurious transfer with hotel pickup, you’ll need to arrange that separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the transfer?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to Ton Sai Pier and from Chong Lad Pier to your hotel.

How early should I arrive for my departure?
It’s recommended to meet the boat crew at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in and settle in without rushing.

Can I cancel the transfer if my plans change?
Yes, the cancellation policy allows free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel on time.

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

How many people typically travel on this speedboat?
The maximum group size is 45 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, and you can expect a more personal experience compared to larger ferries.

Are there multiple departure times?
Yes, during high season, there are three daily departures, giving flexibility. During low season, only one in the afternoon.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The transfer takes approximately 1 hour 42 minutes, including short stops at Railay Beach, Ao Nang, and Koh Yao Noi.

Is this experience suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate; however, those with mobility issues or sensitive to sea motion should consider the sea conditions and duration.

Final Thoughts

The Koh Phi Phi to Koh Yao Yai speedboat transfer offers a practical, scenic, and time-efficient way to hop between islands in Thailand. Its reliable operation, multiple daily departures, and scenic route make it a solid choice for travelers eager to maximize time in the islands while avoiding long waits or complicated transfers.

Ideal for those who value speed, convenience, and scenic views, this service helps streamline your island-hopping experience without sacrificing comfort. Keep in mind that arranging your own ground transport to and from the piers is necessary, but once on board, you’re in good hands.

If you’re planning to explore Koh Yao Yai and want a hassle-free, quick connection from Koh Phi Phi, this speedboat transfer is a smart, trustworthy choice worth considering.

Note: Always check the weather forecast and confirm your departure times well in advance, especially if traveling during the low season or peak weather months.