About the ride from Krabi to Koh Lanta
With over 200 islands to explore, white, sandy beaches to laze upon, and a lush green jungle to discover, you will never run out of things to do in Krabi. Recharge your batteries at Koh Poda or Railay, known for their stunning beaches and scenery. Go island-hopping another day; the famous Phi Phi Islands are only a 90-minute ferry ride away. For a bird’s eye view of the island, climb the 1,237 steps of the Wat Tham Sua or head to the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park for a dip in the sparkling waters of the Emerald Pool.
Beautiful Koh Lanta is picture-postcard perfect - what with its gorgeous beaches, spectacular underwater world, and opportunities to view the most sublime sunsets. Bamboo Bay is the ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, while Long Beach promises relaxing days, interrupted only by indulgent Thai massages. If you are in the mood for adventure, rent a kayak and discover the island’s many hidden caves or hike to the refreshing Klong Jark waterfall.
Koh Lanta is located 31 miles (50 km) from Krabi. With over 40 departures a day (not including private transfers), there are plenty of choices available to travelers. You can choose from a bus/ferry, minivan, or private taxi with a car ferry transfer to Koh Lanta. If you are traveling during peak season, you could also take a passenger ferry.
What to see when traveling from Krabi to Koh Lanta
If you are taking the passenger ferry during the popular tourist season from November to April, you can head out to the viewing deck and relax to the refreshing blues and endless views that surround you. A bus/minivan/taxi-ferry combination allows you to simply sit back in the air-conditioned comfort of your vehicle because the ride across the water is a short 15 minute one.
How to get from Krabi to Koh Lanta
Taking a bus/ferry
There are around seven operators and close to 20 scheduled departures from Krabi to Koh Lanta, making it a popular way to travel the route. Travel times are about two to four hours and involve a bus, minivan/minibus, or taxi ride and a ferry or long-tail boat transfer. With departures throughout the day and the flexibility to book a private vehicle, travelers can choose a time that works best for them.
Passengers can pick from Economy, Standard, and High-Speed options that vary in pricing depending on travel duration and type of vehicle. Economy bus or minivan options start from as low as $9 per person, while booking private taxis and minivans costs between $80 to $120. The private minivans and minibuses accommodate six to nine passengers making them a good choice for small groups. Private taxis are an excellent option for couples or families traveling with children as it provides more convenience and flexibility.
The ride involves a bus ride from Krabi (airport, bus stop, or hotel pick up) to the Hua Hin Pier. From there, a ferry ride takes passengers to the Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta, after which they are dropped off at their hotel (if part of the package). Some of these rides include the vehicle being transported on a car ferry, while some involve a long-tail boat transfer. Air conditioning is there on all road vehicles and some ferries.
Some of the popular operators are Andaman Taxi, Tigerline, Goodluck Lanta, Krabi Airport Shuttle, Jumping Frog Travel, Call Me Taxi Thailand, and Srisawat Travel and Tour. With ticket prices starting from $9 per passenger, the Economy Bus + Ferry by Goodluck Lanta is the cheapest option. The Standard Bus + Ferry 6 PAX by Srisawat Travel and Tour takes around two hours and is one of the fastest options available. Passengers are requested to show their passport or valid ID card during check-in.
Taking a ferry
Taking a passenger ferry is only available during the high season, which is from November to April when the seas are calmer. So, if you do happen to travel during these months, you could take a ferry from the Krabi Passenger Pier in Krabi Town or from the Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang. The rides take around two hours. This service is not available from May to October as the seas are rough.
The other option to consider if traveling during the tourist season is taking an express speedboat from Krabi to Koh Lanta. If you go for a combined ticket, you will be picked up by a private minivan from Krabi Airport and taken to the speedboat pier. The ride duration itself is only for 10-15 minutes but a thrilling one. Upon reaching Koh Lanta, you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Another popular choice is to take the High-Speed Ferry, which departs from Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi and takes about an hour to get to Koh Lanta.
Taking a minivan
With around 20 departures every day, there are plenty of minivan options to choose from. Pick up is usually from Krabi Airport or the Krabi Bus Terminal though if you book a private minibus, you will get the convenience of a hotel pick up. Travel duration is usually between two to three hours. With seating for six to nine passengers, private minivans are ideal for small groups. Ticket prices start from $15 per person.
Taking a private ride
Single travelers who prefer some extra legroom or luggage space and couples who want some privacy and convenience can book a private taxi to take them to Koh Lanta from Krabi. Pick up is usually from Krabi Airport, and after a car ferry ride, the taxi drops off passengers at their hotel in Koh Lanta. Rental rates start at around $90 per vehicle, but given the added convenience and flexibility in timings, it might well be worth it.