How to Get from Koh Lanta to Phuket
KOH LANTA → PHUKET — QUICK GUIDE
Located in Thailand
Distance: ~90–120 km (56–75 miles) across land & sea
Travel Time: 1.5–4 hours (route dependent)
Ferry Route:
Saladan Pier → Rassada Pier
Main Departure: Saladan Pier (Koh Lanta)
Main Arrival: Rassada Pier (Phuket)
Best Season: November–April (calm seas)
Low Season: May–October (land + ferry often required)
Transport Options:
• Ferry: Scenic & relaxed, best balance of cost and comfort
• Speedboat: Fastest option with island views
• Minivan + Ferry: Cheapest choice, hotel pickup included
• Private Taxi: Door-to-door comfort, ideal with luggage
Best Choice For:
• First-time visitors: Ferry or speedboat
• Tight schedules: Speedboat
• Families & couples: Private transfer
• Backpackers: Minivan + ferry combo
Book Transport Online:
• Check ferries & speedboats (Trip.com)
• Compare routes & prices (12Go Asia)
Traveling from Koh Lanta to Phuket gives you plenty of options, each offering a slightly different experience. Whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, or budget-friendly travel, there’s an option that fits your style and schedule.
If you’re in no rush, traveling by bus or minivan lets you enjoy the scenic route across southern Thailand. On the other hand, if convenience matters more, a private taxi offers a direct and stress-free journey, especially when traveling with luggage.
For island lovers, ferries and speedboats are often the most exciting choice. These routes cut across the Andaman Sea, offering beautiful ocean views and a smooth transition from relaxed island life to vibrant Phuket.
How to Choose the Best Way to Travel to Phuket
The choice really comes down to your travel style. Some travelers prefer a relaxed journey and do not mind taking a bit longer. Others want to reach Phuket as fast as possible. Luckily, Koh Lanta offers options for both. In the end, it is simply about how you want to experience the trip.
Where to Buy Tickets in Koh Lanta
When you are in Koh Lanta, buying tickets for your trip is very flexible. You can book in advance or buy tickets the same day at Saladan Pier. Many hotels also help with bookings, which is convenient and sometimes cheaper. Online booking is another easy option. From our experience, using 12Go Asia in Thailand keeps the process simple and stress free.
Taking the Ferry From Koh Lanta to Phuket
We decided to take the ferry because it was the most affordable option for us. Riding a ferry also gave us the chance to enjoy the scenery and feel the rhythm of the sea. As big fans of ocean travel, this choice felt like the perfect fit.
When we arrived at the pier, everything was well organized. We exchanged our ticket for a passenger card, which you need to board the ferry. Soon after, we were on board and ready to go.
The ferry ticket cost 800 THB per person, and the trip took about 3 hours and 40 minutes to reach Rassada Pier in Phuket. The ride was smooth and relaxing, with plenty of time to enjoy the sea breeze and the views along the way.
Short on time?
Van and Speedboat Options
Taking a van from Koh Lanta to Phuket takes about 6 hours and costs around 550 THB. The ride includes a few stops for meals and restrooms, which helps break up the longer journey.
For the fastest option, a speedboat takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is the quickest way to reach Phuket, but also the most expensive, with tickets costing around 1,500 THB per person.
Discover & Book Things to Do
Ferry Stop at Phi Phi Island
The ferry stops at Phi Phi Island, where some travelers get off and others continue to Phuket. We exchanged our sticker for a new one and were guided to the next boat. The process was simple and well organized.
Phi Phi Island is also a travel hub with connections to places like Krabi and nearby islands.
Check Out Our Trip Vlog
Boarding Tips and Ferry Comfort
Make sure to follow the signs carefully, as some passengers accidentally boarded the wrong boat. They noticed the mistake in time, but our captain had to wait for them, so double-check before boarding.
The boat was surprisingly quiet, even during the busy season. I had enough space to lie down and rest until we reached Phuket. There was also a clean restroom on board, so there was no need to look for facilities at Tonsai Pier.
Snacks and Seating on the Ferry
The ferry had a small area to buy snacks and drinks, along with TVs for entertainment. You could sit outside or indoors and switch seats during the trip. Normally, I move between both, but with the rain falling, sleeping felt like the best choice this time.
Arrival at Rassada Pier in Phuket
Rassada Pier in Phuket was our final stop, and it was raining when we arrived. Since we already had a transfer arranged, there was no need to look for a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Check If Your Ticket Includes a Transfer
When buying your ticket, always check if a hotel transfer is included. Tickets without a transfer can be cheaper, but you will need to arrange transport at the pier. In our experience, drivers often start with high prices, so you may need to negotiate. If you do not have a transfer, it helps to know the usual cost to your accommodation in advance.
Write a comment