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Koh Tao to Koh Phi Phi Ferry: Compare Times & Fares

Key facts
  • Crossing time 8h 25m
  • Operators 1
  • Departures a day 1
Sailing season This route sails all year round.

2,295+ THB

Island Delight: From Koh Tao's Shores to Koh Phi Phi

Longtail boats moored on turquoise shallows below towering limestone cliffs, Maya Bay-style Thai island beach

Koh Tao to Koh Phi Phi Ferry Route

There is no single direct boat between these two islands, so a trip from Tao Island to Koh Phi Phi is completed in connecting legs rather than one non-stop sailing. Most travellers combine a morning boat off Koh Tao with an onward transfer through the Surat Thani or Krabi mainland gateways before boarding a final boat into Phi Phi's Tonsai Pier. Understanding this before booking helps you plan realistic connection times and avoid missing a leg.

Transport Modes and Route Structure

The journey typically uses a mix of several transport options, paired with a coach or minivan transfer across the mainland. Step one is the boat off Koh Tao to the Surat Thani area; step two is the overland transfer south towards Krabi; step three is the final boat crossing into Koh Phi Phi. Each leg is bookable individually or as a combined through-ticket, and the live schedule on this page reflects the current connections and 1 available each day.

Operators, Duration and Price

This route is served by Lomlahkkhirin High Speed Ferries, and the combined door-to-door journey currently runs at around the scheduled journey time, with fares starting from ฿2,295. Because the trip involves multiple legs and operators, both duration and price vary depending on which connection you book and the season you travel in — always check the exact times and total cost for your selected departure before confirming, since a missed connection on one leg affects the rest of the journey.

Departure and Arrival Points

Boats from Koh Tao leave from the island's main pier, arriving on the mainland where passengers transfer by road towards Krabi's boat piers. The final leg arrives at Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don, the island's main hub for hotels, restaurants and onward boat trips. Confirm your specific pickup point when booking, as transfer vehicles usually collect passengers from pier arrival halls or nearby hotels.

Onboard Comfort and Travel Season

Boats and coaches on this route typically offer onboard facilities, useful for a journey that spans several hours and more than one vehicle. Sailings run during all year round, though rough weather can occasionally affect the boat legs around Koh Tao and Krabi, so it's worth building in some flexibility if you're connecting to a flight or another booking afterwards.

Booking This Route

Because this is a multi-leg journey, booking a combined through-ticket is the simplest way to secure matching connection times across all legs. Use the live schedule and fare panel on this page to compare available departures and lock in your seat for the full Koh Tao to Koh Phi Phi journey.

Travelling in the opposite direction? See the Koh Phi Phi to Koh Tao ferry schedule for return connections. You can also check the Koh Tao to Koh Samui boat times for the first leg on its own, or the Krabi to Koh Phi Phi ferry schedule for the final crossing. For general planning, the Koh Phi Phi island guide covers what to expect on arrival.

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.

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