How to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi, famous for its turquoise waters and iconic limestone cliffs, is a popular island destination located off Thailand’s west coast. Traveling from Koh Samui to Koh Phi Phi requires a combination of sea and land transport, as the two islands are located on opposite coasts. This guide covers all the transportation options, including travel times, costs, and 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 Samui to Koh Phi Phi:

• By Ferry, Bus, and Ferry: A common and budget-friendly option.
• By Flight, Bus, and Ferry: The fastest and most convenient choice.
• By Private Transfer and Ferry: For those seeking a more personalized travel experience.

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

By Ferry, Bus, and Ferry: A Common and Budget-Friendly Option

The combination of ferry, bus, and ferry is a popular and cost-effective way to travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phi Phi. This route takes you across Thailand’s narrow Kra Isthmus, from east to west, and connects you to Koh Phi Phi via Phuket or Krabi.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take a ferry from Koh Samui to Donsak Pier on the mainland.
  • Departure Points: Ferries depart from Nathon Pier on Koh Samui.
  • Duration: The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours.
  • Price: Ferry tickets range from 300 to 500 THB (~$9 to $15 USD).
  • Ferry Operators: Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja Ferry provide regular services.
• Step 2: Take a bus or minivan from Donsak Pier to Krabi or Phuket.
  • Duration: The bus ride to Krabi takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and to Phuket around 5 hours.
  • Price: Bus tickets to Krabi range from 300 to 500 THB ($9 to $15 USD), while to Phuket it’s typically 500 to 800 THB ($15 to $24 USD).
• Step 3: Take a ferry from Krabi or Phuket to Koh Phi Phi.
  • From Krabi: Ferries take 1.5 to 2 hours and cost 350 to 500 THB (~$11 to $15 USD).
  • From Phuket: Ferries take about 2 hours and cost around 500 to 700 THB (~$15 to $20 USD).
  • Ferry Operators: Phi Phi Cruiser, Andaman Wave Master, and Ao Nang Princess provide regular services to Koh Phi Phi.

Pros:

• A budget-friendly way to travel between islands.
• Offers multiple routes, allowing for flexibility with schedules and destinations.
• Direct transfers are available with combination tickets for ferry and bus.

Cons:

• Longer travel time, taking about 7 to 9 hours in total.
• Requires several transfers between ferry, bus, and ferry again.

Booking Tip:

Combination tickets for ferry + bus + ferry are available and make it easy to coordinate all transfers. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your tickets.

By Flight, Bus, and Ferry: The Fastest and Most Convenient Choice

Flying from Koh Samui to Phuket or Krabi and then taking a ferry to Koh Phi Phi is the fastest way to make the journey. This option is perfect for those looking to save time.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Fly from Koh Samui Airport (USM) to Phuket (HKT) or Krabi (KBV).
  • Flight Duration: Flights to Phuket or Krabi take about 1 hour.
  • Price Range: Tickets range from 2,500 to 5,500 THB (~$75 to $165 USD).
  • Airlines: Bangkok Airways operates flights from Koh Samui to both Phuket and Krabi.
• Step 2: Take a ferry from Phuket or Krabi to Koh Phi Phi.
  • From Krabi: Ferries take 1.5 to 2 hours and cost 350 to 500 THB (~$11 to $15 USD).
  • From Phuket: Ferries take about 2 hours and cost around 500 to 700 THB (~$15 to $20 USD).

Pros:

• The fastest option, reducing total travel time to 4 to 6 hours.
• Direct flights save time and reduce fatigue.
• Ideal for travelers with limited time.

Cons:

• Higher cost due to flight expenses.
• Requires coordination between flight and ferry schedules.

Booking Tip:

Book flights in advance, as prices can increase during peak travel seasons. Use our online search form to find flights and ferry schedules and book your tickets.

By Private Transfer and Ferry: For a Personalized Travel Experience

For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, hiring a private transfer from Donsak Pier to Phuket or Krabi, followed by a ferry to Koh Phi Phi, is a convenient and comfortable option.

Key Details:

• Step 1: Take a ferry from Koh Samui to Donsak Pier on the mainland.
  • Duration: The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours.
  • Price: Ferry tickets range from 300 to 500 THB (~$9 to $15 USD).
• Step 2: Hire a private car or taxi from Donsak Pier to Phuket or Krabi.
  • Duration: The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to Krabi and around 5 hours to Phuket.
  • Price Range: Private transfer costs range from 2,500 to 5,000 THB (~$75 to $150 USD).
• Step 3: Take a ferry from Phuket or Krabi to Koh Phi Phi.
  • Duration: Ferries from Krabi take 1.5 to 2 hours; from Phuket, about 2 hours.
  • Price: Ferry tickets range from 350 to 700 THB (~$11 to $20 USD).

Pros:

• Flexible and private, perfect for families or groups.
• Direct and comfortable transfers, with no crowding.
• Private cars provide more space and allow for stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than public transportation options.
• Requires advance booking for both the car and ferry tickets.

Booking Tip:

Private transfers can be arranged in advance and are especially helpful during peak travel seasons. Use our online search form to book your transfer and ferry tickets.

Final Tips for Traveling from Koh Samui to Koh Phi Phi

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from November to April, offers the best weather for ferry travel and beach activities on Koh Phi Phi.
• Consider Combination Tickets: Many operators offer combined ferry + bus + ferry or flight + ferry tickets, simplifying travel arrangements.
• Pack Light: Since you’ll be transferring multiple times, light luggage can make your journey more comfortable.