How to get from Krabi to Phuket

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks. Located 165 km (100 miles) from Krabi, Phuket is easily accessible by road and sea. 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 Krabi to Phuket:

• By Bus or Minivan: The most affordable and direct land option.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most comfortable way.
• By Ferry or Speedboat: A scenic option for island lovers.
• By Flight: A less common but available alternative.

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

Timetable

By Bus or Minivan: The Most Affordable and Direct Land Option

For budget travelers, taking a bus or minivan from Krabi to Phuket is the cheapest and most straightforward way to travel.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Krabi Bus Terminal (for buses).
  • Ao Nang or Krabi Town (for minivans).
• Arrival Points: Phuket Bus Terminal 2 (Phuket Town).
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 250–450 THB (~$7–$13 USD).
• Operators:
  • Phuket Krabi Transport.
  • Lignite Tour Bus.
  • Local minivan services from Ao Nang.

Pros:

• Cheapest way to get to Phuket.
• Direct routes with frequent departures.
• Comfortable air-conditioned minivans available.

Cons:

• Minivans can be cramped for taller passengers.
• Traffic delays can increase travel time.
• Phuket Bus Terminal is far from the beaches, requiring a second transfer.

Booking Tip:

Minivans fill up fast, so book at least a day in advance. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Way

For travelers who prefer comfort and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi is the best and fastest option.

Key Details:

• Departure Points: Pickup from Krabi Town, Ao Nang, or Krabi Airport.
• Arrival Points: Drop-off at Phuket hotels, beaches, or the airport.
• Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 2,500–4,000 THB (~$70–$115 USD), depending on car type.
• Taxi Operators:
  • Grab (ride-hailing app).
  • Private car services from Krabi.

Pros:

• Door-to-door service with no need for extra transfers.
• Fastest option, especially for those on a tight schedule.
• Ideal for groups, families, or travelers with luggage.

Cons:

• More expensive than public transport.
• Prices vary depending on the season.

Booking Tip:

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

By Ferry or Speedboat: A Scenic Option for Island Lovers

For a picturesque journey, taking a ferry or speedboat from Krabi to Phuket is a great choice. This option is popular among island-hopping travelers.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Ao Nang Pier (for ferries and speedboats).
  • Railay Beach (for speedboats only).
  • Krabi Town (Klong Jilad Pier).
• Arrival Points:
  • Rassada Pier (Phuket Town).
• Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the boat type.
• Price: 700–1,500 THB (~$20–$45 USD).
• Boat Operators:
  • Ao Nang Princess Ferry.
  • Phi Phi Cruiser (with optional stops at Phi Phi Islands).
  • Tigerline Speedboat (faster but more expensive).

Pros:

• Scenic journey with great photo opportunities.
• Comfortable ferry seating with air-conditioning.
• Option to stop at Koh Phi Phi on the way.

Cons:

• Limited departures (mostly in the morning).
• Weather-dependent—rough seas can delay boats.
• Arrival at Phuket’s pier requires a second transfer to beaches.

Booking Tip:

For peak season travel, book your ferry or speedboat tickets in advance using our online search form.

By Flight: A Less Common but Available Alternative

Although not common, travelers can fly from Krabi to Phuket via Bangkok as there are no direct flights.

Key Details:

• Route: Krabi to Bangkok, then Bangkok to Phuket.
• Duration: 5–6 hours including layovers.
• Price: 2,000–5,000 THB (~$60–$150 USD).
• Airlines:
  • Thai AirAsia.
  • Bangkok Airways.
  • Thai Smile.

Pros:

• Good for travelers already flying from Krabi.
• More reliable in bad weather compared to ferries.

Cons:

• Longer travel time compared to land transport.
• Requires a layover in Bangkok.
• More expensive than other options.

Booking Tip:

If you must fly, check for promotional fares and book in advance using our online search form.

Final Tips for Traveling from Krabi to Phuket

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November–April) offers calm seas and smooth travel conditions.
• Plan for Transfers in Phuket: Phuket’s bus station and pier are far from the main beaches, so factor in extra travel time.
• Book Early for Peak Season: Ferries, buses, and private cars sell out fast during December–February and Thai holidays.
• Consider Island Stops: If you have time, consider stopping at Koh Phi Phi on the ferry route for an added adventure.