Penang, known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” is famous for its historic George Town, delicious street food, and beautiful beaches. Located 110 km (68 miles) southeast of Langkawi, Penang is accessible by ferry, flight, or a combination of bus and ferry. 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 Langkawi to Penang:
- By Ferry: The most direct and scenic option.
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient choice.
- By Ferry + Bus (Via Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah): A budget-friendly but longer alternative.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Langkawi to Penang.
Timetable
By Ferry: The Most Direct and Scenic Option
Taking a direct ferry from Langkawi to Penang is the easiest and most popular way to travel between the two islands.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Kuah Jetty, Langkawi.
- Arrival Point: Swettenham Pier, George Town, Penang.
- Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours.
- Price: 70–90 MYR (~$15–$20 USD).
- Ferry Operators:
- Super Fast Ferry Ventures.
- Departure Frequency: One ferry per day.
Ferry Schedule:
- Departure from Langkawi: 10:30 AM.
- Arrival in Penang: Around 1:30–2:00 PM.
Pros:
- Direct service from Langkawi to Penang.
- No need for additional transport or transfers.
- Scenic views of the Andaman Sea.
Cons:
- Only one daily ferry—limited schedule.
- May be canceled during bad weather.
- Seas can be rough—motion sickness possible.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book a seat near the middle of the ferry to avoid motion sickness. Use our online search form to check ferry schedules and secure your tickets.
By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Choice
For travelers who prefer speed and convenience, taking a direct flight from Langkawi to Penang is the fastest option.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Langkawi International Airport (LGK).
- Arrival Airport: Penang International Airport (PEN).
- Duration: 40 minutes.
- Price: 100–300 MYR (~$22–$65 USD), depending on the airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- AirAsia (budget airline).
- Firefly (operates from Subang Airport in Kuala Lumpur).
- Malaysia Airlines.
- Flight Frequency: Several flights daily from morning to evening.
Airport Transfer from Penang International Airport to George Town
- Taxi / Grab: 30 minutes,
25–40 MYR ($6–$10 USD). - Public Bus (Rapid Penang Bus 401/401E): 1 hour,
3 MYR ($0.75 USD).
Pros:
- Fastest travel option (under 1 hour).
- No risk of seasickness.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Requires airport transfers in both Langkawi and Penang.
- Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.
Booking Tip:
For the best fares, book flights at least 1–2 months in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.
By Ferry + Bus (Via Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah): A Budget-Friendly but Longer Alternative
For budget travelers or those who miss the direct ferry, an alternative is to take a ferry from Langkawi to the mainland, then travel to Penang by bus.
Step 1: Take a Ferry from Langkawi to Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah
- Departure Points:
- Kuah Jetty, Langkawi → Kuala Perlis Jetty (Perlis) (shortest route).
- Kuah Jetty, Langkawi → Kuala Kedah Jetty (Kedah).
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Price: 18–23 MYR (~$4–$5 USD).
- Ferry Operators: Langkawi Ferry Services.
Step 2: Take a Bus or Train from Kuala Perlis/Kuala Kedah to Penang
- Bus from Kuala Perlis to Penang:
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
- Price: 25–35 MYR (~$5–$8 USD).
- Operators: Express Bus Companies.
- Bus from Kuala Kedah to Penang:
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
- Price: 25–35 MYR (~$5–$8 USD).
Step 3: Take a Ferry from Butterworth to Penang Island (if needed)
- Ferry Operator: Rapid Ferry (Penang Ferry Service).
- Duration: 15 minutes.
- Price: 1.20 MYR (~$0.30 USD).
Total Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
Total Price: 50–80 MYR (~$12–$18 USD).
Pros:
- More frequent ferry departures than the direct Langkawi-Penang route.
- Cheaper than flights.
Cons:
- Longer travel time.
- Multiple transfers required.
Booking Tip:
This route is best for budget travelers who don’t mind extra travel time. Use our online search form to check ferry and bus schedules.
Final Tips for Traveling from Langkawi to Penang
- Best Option for Speed: Flight (40 minutes, from 100 MYR).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Ferry + Bus (~50 MYR, 5+ hours).
- Best Option for Scenic Views: Direct Ferry (~3.5 hours, from 70 MYR).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Ferries and flights sell out quickly during high season (December–April).
- Prepare for Motion Sickness: If taking the ferry, bring motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness.
