How to get from Koh Lipe to Phuket

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Located 210 km (130 miles) north of Koh Lipe, Phuket is accessible by a combination of ferry and bus, speedboat and flight, or private transfer. This guide covers all available travel 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 Koh Lipe to Phuket:

• By Speedboat + Bus/Minivan: The most common and cost-effective option.
• By Ferry + Flight (via Hat Yai): The fastest but more expensive option.
• By Private Speedboat + Car: The most flexible and comfortable choice.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Koh Lipe to Phuket.

Timetable

By Speedboat + Bus/Minivan: The Most Common and Cost-Effective Option

Taking a speedboat from Koh Lipe to Pak Bara Pier followed by a bus or minivan to Phuket is the most affordable and widely used method.

Key Details:

• Route: Koh Lipe → Pak Bara Pier (Speedboat) → Phuket (Bus/Minivan).
• Departure Point: Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe.
• Arrival Point: Phuket Bus Terminal 1 or 2.
• Duration: 7 to 9 hours, depending on connections.
• Price: 1,200–1,800 THB (~$35–$55 USD), depending on operator and vehicle type.
• Speedboat Operators:
  • Bundhaya Speedboat.
  • Satun Pakbara Speedboat.
  • Tigerline Ferry (Speedboat + bus combo available).
• Bus Operators (Pak Bara to Phuket):
  • Minivans (Shared, air-conditioned, direct service).
  • Express Buses (More comfortable but slower due to stops).
• Departure Frequency: Multiple speedboat departures daily (morning to early afternoon).

Recommended Routes:

• Fastest Option:
  • Tigerline Ferry (Speedboat + Bus Combo) (~7 hours, ~1,800 THB).
• Cheapest Option:
  • Bundhaya Speedboat + Minivan Transfer (~9 hours, ~1,200 THB).

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~1,200 THB for budget options).
• Direct transfers with combined speedboat + bus tickets available.
• Multiple departures throughout the day.

Cons:

• Long travel time (~7 to 9 hours).
• Bumpy speedboat ride, especially during rough seas.
• Limited space for luggage on speedboats.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a larger speedboat with covered seating. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your ticket.

By Ferry + Flight (via Hat Yai): The Fastest but More Expensive Option

For travelers who prefer speed and comfort, taking a ferry to the mainland, then flying to Phuket is the fastest way to travel.

Key Details:

• Route: Koh Lipe → Pak Bara Pier (Speedboat) → Hat Yai Airport (Minivan) → Phuket (Flight).
• Departure Point: Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe.
• Arrival Point: Phuket International Airport.
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours, including transfer time.
• Price: 2,000–3,500 THB (~$55–$100 USD), depending on flight and ferry type.
• Speedboat Operators:
  • Satun Pakbara Speedboat.
  • Bundhaya Speedboat.
• Flight Operators (Hat Yai to Phuket):
  • Thai AirAsia (~1-hour flight).
  • Nok Air (~1-hour flight).
  • Thai Lion Air (~1-hour flight).
• Minivan Transfer (Pak Bara to Hat Yai Airport):
  • 1.5 to 2 hours.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~5 hours total).
• Comfortable alternative to long bus rides.
• More predictable schedules than speedboats + buses.

Cons:

• More expensive than bus options (~2,500+ THB total).
• Requires multiple transfers (Speedboat → Minivan → Flight).
• Flight delays are possible.

Booking Tip:

For better savings, book flights early. Use our online search form to compare ferry and flight prices.

By Private Speedboat + Car: The Most Flexible and Comfortable Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private speedboat from Koh Lipe to Pak Bara Pier, followed by a private car transfer to Phuket, is the most luxurious way to travel.

Key Details:

• Route: Koh Lipe → Pak Bara Pier (Private Speedboat) → Phuket (Private Car).
• Distance: 210 km (130 miles).
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours, including transfer time.
• Price: 10,000–15,000 THB (~$280–$450 USD), depending on boat and car type.
• Speedboat Companies:
  • Private Speedboat Charter (Customized timing).
• Private Car Services:
  • Luxury Sedans, SUVs, or Vans.

Pros:

• Fastest door-to-door travel (~5 hours total).
• No waiting for scheduled transfers.
• Comfortable and private, ideal for families or groups.

Cons:

• Most expensive option (~10,000+ THB).
• Weather conditions may impact speedboat travel.

Booking Tip:

For best rates, book your private speedboat and car transfer in advance using our online search form.

Final Tips for Traveling from Koh Lipe to Phuket

• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Speedboat + Bus (~1,200 THB, 9 hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Ferry + Flight (~2,500 THB, 5+ hours).
• Best Option for Private Travel: Private Speedboat + Car (~10,000+ THB, 5+ hours).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Ferries, private cars, and flights sell out quickly during high season (November–April).
• Motion Sickness Alert: The speedboat ride can be rough, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.
• Weather Tip: Monsoon season (May–October) can cause ferry cancellations. Check the weather forecast before booking.