Krabi to Koh Phi Phi: The Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide (Ferry vs. Speedboat)
Planning your trip from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi? Our 2025 guide compares ferries & speedboats with real prices, insider tips, and how to book the SAFEST way. Don’t travel without reading this!
Your Stress-Free Journey from Krabi to Paradise Starts Here
he moment you decide to visit the legendary Koh Phi Phi islands, you’ve made a fantastic choice. Famous for its jaw-dropping beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant energy, Phi Phi is a non-negotiable stop on any Thailand itinerary.
But first, you have to get there. The journey from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi is a classic Thai travel experience, but it can be confusing. Ferry or speedboat? Book online or at a agency? How to avoid scams and ensure safety?
Having traveled this route multiple times, I’ve compiled everything you need to know for a smooth and unforgettable trip in 2025. Let’s dive in!
Krabi to Koh Phi Phi: At a Glance
| Transport Method | Journey Time | Approx. Cost (2025) | Best For | Our Top Booking Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry | 1.5 – 2.5 hours | $12 – $18 USD | Budget travelers, no rush | Book online via Get your Guide for reliability. |
| Speedboat | 45 – 60 minutes | $25 – $40 USD | Time-savers, comfort seekers | Opt for well-known operators for safety. Book Now |
| Day Tour | Full Day | $50 – $80 USD | Those short on time, all-inclusive | Great for snorkeling & seeing multiple spots. Book Now |
1. The Ferry: The Budget-Friendly Choice
The ferry is the most popular way to travel, balancing cost and a decent travel experience.
The Experience: It’s a social affair! You’ll be with a mix of travelers. Sit on the open-air top deck for breezy views or inside for shade. The slow chug across the Andaman Sea is part of the adventure.
The Schedule (2025): Ferries typically depart Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier) at 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 3:00 PM. Always double-check times on Get Your Guide as schedules change seasonally.
The Real Cost: Prices range from $12 to $18. The low season (May-Oct) may have cheaper walk-in rates, but booking online is safer.
“Is the ferry from Krabi to Phi Phi safe?”
Safety Note: Ferry safety standards in Thailand can vary. Always check recent reviews for the operator. Reputable companies like Andaman Wave Master have good records. Ensure your boat has visible life jackets and avoids sailing in dangerously rough weather.
2. The Speedboat: For Speed and Comfort
If your time is precious or you prefer a quicker, more thrilling ride, the speedboat is your best bet.
The Experience: It’s faster, bumpier, and you’ll feel the sea spray. Boats are smaller, often feeling more exclusive than the crowded ferries. Great if you’re prone to seasickness (shorter duration).
The Schedule: Departures are more frequent, from around 8:00 AM until the early afternoon.
The Real Cost: Expect to pay $25-$40. The price often includes a hotel pickup in Krabi town or Ao Nang
Book Your Speed Boat tour from Get Your Guide.
3. The All-Inclusive Day Trip: Maximize Your Experience
Short on time? A day trip is a phenomenal way to see the highlights of Phi Phi without moving your luggage.
What’s Included: These tours, bookable on sites like GetYourGuide, typically include hotel transfer, speedboat ride, lunch, snorkeling gear, and visits to Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon.
Is it worth it? For $50-$80, it’s excellent value if a day is all you have. You get a curated experience without any planning hassle.
Booking Your Tickets: The Smart Way vs. The Risky Way
SMART WAY: Book Online in Advance. Use platforms like GetyourGuide. You can compare companies, read recent reviews, and secure your seat months in advance. This is crucial during high season (Nov-Apr).
RISKY WAY: Booking via Your Hotel/Street Agency. While convenient, you often don’t know which operator you’ll get. We were once forgotten by a transfer and had to sprint to the pier! You lose control over the safety and quality of the operator.
Arriving on Koh Phi Phi: What to Expect
The magic begins the moment you arrive. Koh Phi Phi is a car-free island. Your ferry will dock at Tonsai Pier. From there, you’ll walk to your accommodation. Many hotels offer a luggage cart service—look for their signs at the pier. It’s a lifesaver!
Beyond the Journey: Top 3 Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi
Hike to the Viewpoint: The iconic postcard view. The hike is steep but 100% worth it. Go for sunrise to avoid the crowds and heat. (Cost: ~30 THB).
Visit Maya Bay: Made famous by The Beach. It’s now regulated to protect the environment—you can visit but swimming is often restricted. Respect the rules.
Snorkel at Hat Yao: A 30-minute walk from the main town leads to this beautiful beach teeming with marine life, including clownfish and reef sharks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Koh Phi Phi closer to Krabi or Phuket?
A: It’s significantly closer to Krabi (approx. 46 km) than to Phuket (74 km), making the journey shorter and often cheaper.
Q: Can I do a day trip from Krabi to Phi Phi?
A: Absolutely! All-inclusive day tours are very popular and a great option if you’re short on time.
Q: What is the cheapest way to get from Krabi to Phi Phi?
A: The ferry is the cheapest option, with tickets starting around $16 USD.
The Final Word: Krabi to Koh Phi Phi
No matter how you choose to travel, the journey to Koh Phi Phi is an integral part of the adventure. For most, the ferry offers the best balance of cost and experience. If you value time and comfort, the speedboat is worth the extra money.
Your Key Takeaway: Book your transfer online with a reputable company like GetYourGuide for a stress-free start to your paradise island getaway.
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Banker by profession & blogger by passion. Traveler- I love traveling so making travel contents here. Visited India, Thailand, Sri Lanka. Want to explore all world. Education- B.Tech in computer science. I have experience of Word-press website creation, affiliation and content creation, SEO optimization.
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