If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, you’re probably wondering the best way to get from Phuket to Krabi.
Phuket and Krabi are two of the most popular tourist destinations in southern Thailand. On the one hand, Phuket is a vibrant destination with a plethora of tourism developments.
It still offers wonderful beaches and many other attractions. Krabi, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed pace of life, allowing tourists to get an authentic look at Thailand.
The contrasting vibes of Phuket and Krabi make both destinations popular with tourists.
Traveling from one place to another is a relaxing journey and an incredible sight to behold. Read on to find out how to travel from Phuket to Krabi.
The most popular option is to take the Phuket to Krabi ferry, as this is the most efficient and cost-effective way to get from Phuket to Krabi.
In this blog post, we’ll explore all the different ways to get from Phuket to Krabi so you can decide which option is best for you.
The distance from Phuket to Krabi is about 100 miles (160 kilometers). Travel by car usually takes around three and a half hours, however, travel times can vary depending on the type of transport used and the route being taken.
For example, a direct ferry takes only two and a half hours. With various options, travelers can choose the best way to travel from Phuket to Krabi according to their budget, time constraints, and preferences.
Best way to travel from Phuket to Krabi
Phuket to Krabi by ferry
Taking a ferry from Phuket to Krabi is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable ways to get there.
The ferry departs from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town and takes about two hours to reach Ao Nang in Krabi. There are several other ferries that operate between the two cities, including Chalong Pier in Phuket and Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi.
Ferry services usually operate from 7am to 5pm, depending on the season and weather conditions.
During high season, additional ferries may be added, but it is best to check the timetable in advance. Tickets can be purchased directly at the pier or online at a slightly discounted price.
You will be provided with a life jacket when boarding the ferry, and the journey itself is enjoyable with stunning sea views along the way.
Once you arrive in Ao Nang, you can explore Krabi with various public transportation options such as tuk-tuks, songthaews and motorbikes.
Overall, taking a ferry from Phuket to Krabi is an easy, comfortable and cost-effective way to travel between the two destinations.
- Cost: $22
- Waiting time: 2.5 hours
- Travel time: 2.5 hours
From Phuket to Krabi by Speedboat
If you prefer to travel by water, a speedboat is another option. Compared to buses, taxis, minibuses and ferries, speed boats are the fastest way to get from Phuket to Krabi.
However, they did not reach Krabi town itself. The speedboat ends at the resort town of Ao Nang, approximately 19 kilometers (12 miles) from Krabi town.
So, be aware of your final destination before choosing this option.
Although fast (approximately 2 hours from Bang Rong pier) the speedboat is also the most expensive mode of transport from Phuket to Krabi.
Koh Yao Sun Smile operates 2 departures daily from Bang Rong pier in Phuket to Nopparat Thara pier in Ao Nang. The Koh Yao Sun Smile speedboat also docks at Railey Pier.
If you don’t like the cost of the speedboat or the longer time it takes for the ferry, don’t worry, you can choose one of the other modes of transportation to get from Phuket to Krabi.
- Cost: $22
- Waiting time: 2.5 hours
- Travel time: 2.5 hours
From Phuket to Krabi by bus
If you’re on a budget and don’t mind a long journey, taking a bus is an excellent way to get from Phuket to Krabi. Buses run several times a day and can be booked in advance through travel agents or online.
The journey takes about six hours, including stops along the way.
Travel costs are relatively low and depend on the company you choose. However, it’s important to remember that many buses in the area are not air-conditioned, so if you’re traveling during the hotter months, it’s best to stay overnight.
You can also expect a few toilet stations, but no food stations available.
Most buses depart from Phuket Bus Terminal in Phuket Town, but some companies offer pick-up from other parts of the city.
It is best to book tickets in advance to guarantee a seat. Upon arrival in Krabi, you will be alighted at Krabi Bus Station which is located in the city centre.
Most hotels and attractions are easily accessible from here.
- Cost: $4.30
- Waiting time: 1.h
- Travel time: 2.5 hours
From Phuket to Krabi by minivan
If you are looking for a more comfortable, private and convenient way to travel from Phuket to Krabi, then you should consider taking a minivan.
A minivan is a large personal vehicle that can comfortably seat up to eight passengers. This type of transportation is ideal for small groups who don’t mind sharing the ride and cost.
The minivan journey takes about two to three hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. There are several companies that offer non-stop travel from Phuket to Krabi, so you can easily find one that fits your schedule.
Tickets are usually THB 500 to 800 per person including all fees and taxes.
When you book a minivan, we will pick you up at your hotel or other scheduled pick-up point in Phuket and drop you off at the same point in Krabi.
The service is reliable and safe as all drivers are required to follow strict safety regulations. Plus, the minivan is air-conditioned and has plenty of luggage space.
So, if you are looking for a hassle-free and comfortable way to travel from Phuket to Krabi, a minivan might be the perfect option for you.
- Cost: $8
- Waiting time: 2 hours
- Travel time: 3.0 hours
Phuket to Krabi by plane
If you want to get from Phuket to Krabi quickly and easily, flying is the way to go. Phuket International Airport (HKT) and Krabi International Airport (KBV) are just 60 kilometers apart and less than an hour’s flight time.
Flights between Phuket and Krabi are operated by AirAsia and Thai Smile, with tickets starting at around THB 1,000. Both airlines offer daily morning and afternoon flights from Phuket, while flights from Krabi depart in the afternoon and evening.
Krabi’s airport is located 6 kilometers outside the city, so you will need to arrange transfers to your destination upon arrival.
There are several transportation options at the airport, including taxis, vans, buses and private car services. If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or have special needs, it’s best to book your car service in advance.
Overall, flying is the most convenient way to travel from Phuket to Krabi, and it usually only takes about an hour. You can easily find reasonably priced flights, but be sure to plan ahead, as airfares tend to go up closer to your departure date.
- Cost: $51 one-way, $101 round-trip
- Wait time: 1.0 hour
- Travel time: 30 minutes
Car hire from Phuket to Krabi
If you want to get from Phuket to Krabi on your own schedule, renting a car might be right for you. It’s an easy drive, and rental cars are available at both locations.
From Phuket to Krabi by car, the route is very simple. Drive along Highway 4 (Phang Nga Road) for about two hours to reach Phang Nga Province.
Then, drive another two hours along Highway 41 to reach Krabi. In total, the drive takes about four hours with no stops.
The road is generally well maintained and there are plenty of places to stop for food or drinks along the way. Most routes are three-lane and easy to navigate.
Since it’s a long journey, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure you have enough gas all the way to your destination.
Be sure to bring a map in case you need to re-route for any reason.
Finally, remember that rental cars in Thailand do not come with a driver. So, before embarking on this trip, you should feel comfortable with long drives and navigating new roads.
- Car rental fee: USD 30 per day
- Wait time: 1.0 hour
- Travel time: no waiting
Is it safe to travel from Phuket to Krabi?
As Thailand’s largest island and most popular beach resort, Phuket is one of Southeast Asia’s busiest tourist destinations.
This stunningly beautiful place can also be treacherous for the unwary traveller, but for the most part, Phuket and Krabi are Extremely safe for tourists.
The biggest thing you need to worry about is scams, most of which you can avoid by reading up on what to expect when in Phuket (in relation to prices) so you don’t get ludicrously overcharged by taxi drivers and other service providers.
A word of warning: when a deal is too good to be true, it is.
Conclusion from Phuket to Krabi
Phuket and Krabi are separated by the Andaman Sea. The overland distance between Phuket and Krabi is 160 km.
You can travel between Phuket and Krabi by land or water. Ferries/speed boats, buses and taxis are the three main ways to get to Krabi from Phuket.
- There are no direct flights from Phuket to Krabi, so it is not recommended to fly.
- The fastest way to get from Phuket to Krabi is by speedboat.
- The cheapest way is by bus.
- During the rainy season (June-October), it is recommended to take a taxi (private transfer). Because ferries/speedboats are sometimes delayed or canceled due to rough seas.
Ready to plan your trip, grab my free vacation plan Helps you plan your trip while watching your favorite TV shows!
If you would like to donate to Passport and Grub Click here!
Additional articles on exploring Costa Rica
50 Things To Do In Santa Teresa
Best luxury and budget hotels in Costa Rica
The Ultimate Costa Rica Packing List
If you’re traveling to Phuket, is Krabi Island on your travel bucket list? Which islands are on your travel list? How will you go to the islands you decide to explore while in Phuket?I’d love to hear your thoughts so drop me a line Facebook, Twitteror instagram.
Are you also on PINTEREST?
Why not save this post to your Pinterest board for later?I’m also on Pinterest so stay tuned Passport and Grub board and get the latest pins directly.
