Ferry Ticket and Speedboat Guide: Koh Yao Yai to Railay

Q: What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?

At the pier listed on your ticket, find staff from your ferry operator and show your e-ticket QR code from your phone. They'll give you a sticker or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers offer luggage help—look for staff in company uniforms near boats or booths.

Q: Do I need to print my ferry ticket or is mobile ok?

No, printing isn't required. Just show the e-ticket QR code from your phone (or other device) to the ferry operator staff at the pier listed on your ticket—they'll issue a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Prefer paper? Register as a member to print your e-tickets and VAT receipts.

Q: What happens if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?

If bad weather forces the ferry operator to cancel your trip, you can choose a full refund or reschedule to a new date. Refunds only apply when the operator cancels—not if you choose not to travel. Arrange this via the refund button in your Liva account.

Q: What are the baggage allowances?

Ferry e-tickets include a free baggage allowance of 20–25 kg per person, depending on the operator. Excess baggage can be paid for in cash directly to the ferry operator. Always check your specific route's trip details for exact allowance limits.

Q: Can I change the date of my ticket?

Yes, you can change your ticket date. Notice of 24–72 hours (varies by operator) is required, with a 200 baht/person fee for a second change. For Bali Ferry, 7 days' notice and a USD $10 fee apply. Contact support via live chat to process changes—not by email.

Q: If I miss my ferry, can I take the next one?

No, you generally cannot take the next ferry if you miss your booked departure — tickets expire and are non-refundable and non-changeable. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid missing it. If you do miss it, contact customer support immediately for the best available alternative options.

Key facts

Crossing time 35m–1h 20m
Operators 5
Departures a day 6

Sailing season This route sails all year round.

600+ THB

Schedules & prices

RecommendedLowest price Fastest Best price guarantee

11:00 Koh Yao Yai Chong Lard Pier

2 stops

7.29 kg CO₂

12:00 Railay Railay East Floating Pier

Instant confirmation Refund available Amend available

See all Speed Boat

Economy Class 600.00 THB 450.00 THB See details child 2-11, adult 12+

Breeze Your Way from Koh Yao Yai to Railay by Speedboat

Longtail boats moored on turquoise sea beside a towering limestone karst cliff under clear blue sky, Thailand

Traveling from Koh Yao Yai to Railay is a breeze with multiple transport options. Here’s a handy Yao Yai to Railay Ferry and Speedboat guide. It will help you plan your trip.

Koh Yao Yai to Railay: Schedule and Pricing

The distance between Koh Yao Yai and Railay is approximately 22 miles (34 km). The journey typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. You have a few transportation options to choose from, each offering different levels of comfort and convenience.

1. Speedboat: The quickest way to travel from Koh Yao Yai to Railay is by speedboat. Speedboats are available 4 times a day from Chong Lard Pier. The earliest departure time is at 09:00 and the latest at 15:40. The journey takes just about 1 hour. Ferry tickets cost between THB 650 and THB 780 ($18 to $22). You will change boats in Koh Yao Noi.

2. Bus and Longtail Boat: Another popular option is going from Koh Yao Yai to Railay by Bus, after a Speedboat trip and before a longtail boat.

Departure Details

Ferry and Speedboat Operators: Green Planet and Koh Yao Sun Smile Travel are the primary operators for this route. Speed Boats and ferries depart from Chong Lard Pier, Koh Yao Yai’s main departure point for marine travel.

Pier Location: Chong Lard Pier is easily accessible from most parts of Koh Yao Yai. It is advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Travel Plan: Direct speedboats will take you straight to Railay Bay, while the combination route will have you change at Krabi and Ao Nang. From Ao Nang, a minibus will whisk you away to ao nam mao pier. It is from where a Longtail Boat ride awaits to complete your trip to Railay Beach

For those traveling from Koh Yao Yai to Railay by ferry or speedboat, Green Planet and Koh Yao Sun Smile provide convenient and reliable services. It's advised to check the latest schedules and buy tickets in advance, especially during the high season from November to April when the demand is high.

Check-in Instructions

Arriving at Chong Lard Pier: Upon arrival at the pier, you will need to check in with the ticket office. Have your booking confirmation and identification ready for a hassle-free process. The operators usually require you to check in at least 30 minutes before departure.

Baggage: Speedboats and ferries typically have limited space for large luggage, so it's best to travel light. Inform the crew if you have heavy or oversized bags.

Important Travel Information

Weather Considerations: Marine travel can be affected by weather conditions. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and confirm your booking in advance.
Safety: Always wear your life jacket on speedboats and follow crew instructions for a safe journey.
Travel Essentials: Bring sun protection, water, and snacks for the journey. Seasickness tablets can be handy for those prone to motion sickness.

How to Buy Tickets: You can easily buy tickets for both speedboats and ferries online or at ticket counters on Koh Yao Yai. Using a search box on the operator's website can help you find the best options for your travel dates.

Connections from Krabi Airport: If you're traveling from Krabi Airport, there are options to get to Railay Beach via Ao Nang or Ao Nam Mao Pier, where you can continue your journey to Railay.

Railay: Your Destination

Overview: Railay Bay is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Accessible only by boat, it offers a secluded paradise for rock climbing, snorkeling, and exploring hidden caves. East Railay is particularly known for its calm waters and scenic beauty.

Nearby Attractions: Railay is a gateway to Phra Nang Cave Beach, Railay Beach West and East, and Tonsai Beach. Each spot offers unique experiences, from quiet relaxation to vibrant nightlife.

Travel Tips: For the best travel experience, it is advised to get from Koh Yao Yai to Railay Beach during the early hours when the sea is calmer and you can enjoy a smooth journey.

Traveling from Koh Yao Yai to Railay Beach is an adventure filled with scenic beauty and diverse experiences. Whether you opt for a speedboat or a combination of ferry, bus, and longtail boat, the journey is sure to be memorable. Book your trip today and set off on a picturesque voyage from one island gem to another! Use the available search box on travel platforms to choose from the best routes and departure times for your trip.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?

At the pier named on your ticket, look for the staff of the ferry operator listed on your ticket as well. Please present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device—they’ll provide you with a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers have staff available to help load your luggage. In Koh Samui, staff are usually stationed at booths near the boarding area; at other locations, they’re typically near the boats, wearing their company uniforms.

Do I need to print my ferry ticket or is mobile ok?

You don't need to print your ticket. On the day of travel, simply present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device to the ferry operator staff at the pier named on your ticket—they'll give you a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat.

If you'd prefer a printed copy, you can register as a member on our site, which allows you to easily print out your e-tickets and VAT receipts.

What happens if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?

If your trip is cancelled due to bad weather, you can choose between receiving a refund or rescheduling your journey.

Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip. Also keep in mind that speedboats are more likely to be cancelled than ferries, as ferries can usually operate in the rain except in extremely bad weather — though journeys may take a little longer during storms or strong winds.

To arrange your refund or new travel date, please click the refund button in your personal Liva account.

What are the baggage allowances?

Your ferry e-ticket includes ferry transport, baggage fees, and handling. The free baggage allowance per person is 20–25 kg, depending on the operator. If your baggage exceeds this limit, you can pay the extra fee directly to the ferry operator in cash.

To check the baggage allowance for your specific trip, please refer to the trip details for your selected route.

Can I change the date of my ticket?

Yes, you can change your trip date as long as you provide notice at least 24, 48, or 72 hours before departure—the exact timeframe depends on the ferry operator you booked with. A small service fee of 200 baht per person applies for a second change.

Please note:

Changes must be for the same operator and boat type as your original booking.
The change applies to the entire booking; for example, if your booking is for 3 passengers, we cannot change the date or time for just one of them.

To proceed, please click the chat button to connect with one of our customer service agents, or use any of the official channels listed in the footer of our website.

Warning: Please do not send requests by replying directly to the booking confirmation email, as this is not an official support channel.

Bali Ferry :

Yes, you can. The change is required 7 days' notice prior to departure date. There is a small fee of USD $10 applied per time. Please click the chat button to speak with one of our customer service agents who will take you through the simple booking change process.

If I miss my ferry, can I take the next one?

Unfortunately, it is not possible. Tickets will expire for late arrivals and are strictly non-refundable and non-changeable.

To avoid missing your trip, please plan to arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure to allow enough time for check-in and boarding.

If you do happen to miss your ferry and wish to travel as soon as possible, contact us right away, and we’ll advise you on the best available options.

See all help articles