Langkawi, known as the “Jewel of Kedah”, is a tropical paradise famous for its stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and lush rainforests. Located 110 km (68 miles) north of Penang, Langkawi is accessible by ferry, flight, or a combination of bus and ferry. This guide covers all transportation options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Penang to Langkawi:
- By Direct Ferry: The most scenic and convenient option.
- By Flight: The fastest way to reach Langkawi.
- By Bus and Ferry via Kuala Perlis: A budget-friendly alternative.
- By Private Car and Ferry: Ideal for travelers with their own vehicle.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Penang to Langkawi.
Timetable
By Direct Ferry: The Most Scenic and Convenient Option
Taking a direct ferry from Penang to Langkawi is the most popular and convenient option for travelers who want a smooth transfer between the two islands.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Swettenham Pier, George Town, Penang
- Arrival Point: Kuah Jetty, Langkawi
- Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Price: 80–100 MYR (~$17–$22 USD) per one-way ticket
- Ferry Operators:
- Super Fast Ferry Ventures
- Langkawi Ferry Services
- Frequency: 1–2 daily departures, typically in the morning.
Pros:
- Direct journey, no need for multiple transfers.
- Scenic ride with views of the Andaman Sea.
- Comfortable with air-conditioned seating.
Cons:
- Limited departures per day (advance booking recommended).
- Weather-dependent—ferries may be canceled in rough seas.
Booking Tip:
Ferries can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your ferry tickets in advance.
By Flight: The Fastest Way to Reach Langkawi
Flying from Penang International Airport (PEN) to Langkawi International Airport (LGK) is the fastest way to travel between the two islands.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Penang International Airport (PEN)
- Arrival Airport: Langkawi International Airport (LGK)
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Price: 80–300 MYR (~$17–$65 USD), depending on the airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- AirAsia (budget-friendly).
- Malaysia Airlines (full-service).
- Firefly (operates from Penang to Langkawi).
- Frequency: Multiple flights daily.
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (40 minutes vs. 3-hour ferry).
- Multiple flight options daily.
- Less affected by weather conditions compared to ferries.
Cons:
- Requires airport transfers in both Penang and Langkawi.
- Baggage fees may apply on budget airlines.
Booking Tip:
For the best prices, book flights 1–2 months in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.
By Bus and Ferry via Kuala Perlis: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
If the direct ferry is fully booked, you can take a bus from Penang to Kuala Perlis and then a short ferry ride to Langkawi.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Take a bus from Penang to Kuala Perlis.
- Departure Point: Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal, Penang.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Price: 20–30 MYR (~$5–$7 USD).
- Step 2: Take a ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi.
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Price: 18 MYR (~$4 USD).
Pros:
- Cheaper than a direct ferry or flight.
- More frequent ferry departures from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi.
Cons:
- Longer total travel time (~4–5 hours).
- Requires bus-ferry transfer.
Booking Tip:
For seamless travel, book your bus and ferry combo tickets in advance through our online search form.
By Private Car and Ferry: Ideal for Travelers with a Vehicle
If you’re driving from Penang, you can take the Penang–Kuala Perlis ferry for your car and then continue to Langkawi.
Key Details:
- Step 1: Drive from Penang to Kuala Perlis (~2.5 hours).
- Step 2: Take a car ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi.
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Price: 140–250 MYR (~$30–$55 USD), depending on vehicle size.
Pros:
- Convenient if you want to explore Langkawi with your own car.
- No need to rent a vehicle in Langkawi.
Cons:
- Limited car ferry slots (early booking required).
- More expensive than other transport options.
Booking Tip:
Car ferry tickets sell out fast, so use our online search form to reserve your space.
Final Tips for Traveling from Penang to Langkawi
- Best Time to Visit: Langkawi is best visited during the dry season (November–April) for sunny beach weather.
- Book Early for Holidays: Ferries and flights fill up quickly during public holidays and peak seasons.
- Pack Light: Ferry operators limit luggage sizes, so check baggage policies before traveling.
- Plan for Duty-Free Shopping: Langkawi is duty-free, making it a great place to buy alcohol, chocolates, and cosmetics.
