Phi Phi Island is a stunning group of islands located in the Andaman Sea, famous for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Patong, a bustling beach town on Phuket Island, is a popular starting point for travelers heading to Phi Phi Island due to its accessibility and tourist facilities.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options from Patong to Phi Phi Island, including ferry, speedboat, and car transfers. You will also find step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Patong to Phi Phi Island – Main Options

Ferry

Ferries are the most common and affordable way to reach Phi Phi Island from Patong. They offer a comfortable ride with scenic views and operate regularly during the day.

• Ferries depart from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town, about 30 km from Patong, requiring a short taxi or shuttle ride to the pier before boarding.

• The ferry journey to Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Island takes approximately 90 minutes, covering around 46 km across the Andaman Sea.

• Tickets typically cost between 350 to 500 THB per person one way, with multiple daily departures from early morning to late afternoon.

• Ferries can be crowded during high season (November to April), so booking tickets in advance via official websites or travel agents is recommended.

• During the monsoon season (May to October), rough seas may cause delays or cancellations, so check weather updates before traveling.

• Facilities on ferries include basic seating and restrooms; food options are limited, so carry snacks and water for the journey.

Speedboat

Speedboats offer a faster and more flexible option to reach Phi Phi Island, ideal for travelers seeking convenience and willing to pay a premium.

• Speedboats depart from various beaches near Patong, including Patong Beach itself, with travel time to Phi Phi Island around 45 to 60 minutes.

• Prices range from 1,500 to 2,500 THB per person one way, depending on the operator and group size.

• Speedboats run less frequently than ferries, so booking in advance is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• The ride can be bumpy in rough sea conditions, so travelers prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly.

• Speedboat tours often include hotel pick-up and drop-off services, making the journey more convenient for tourists staying in Patong.

• Operators usually provide life jackets and safety briefings, but confirm these details before booking for a safe trip.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving yourself is useful mainly to reach the ferry or speedboat departure points, as Phi Phi Island has no roads for cars. This option suits travelers who want flexibility in Phuket before boarding a boat.

• Rent a car or motorbike in Patong to reach Rassada Pier or other boat departure points; the drive takes about 45 minutes via Route 402 and Route 4020.

• Parking is available near Rassada Pier but can be limited during peak seasons, so arrive early to secure a spot.

• Driving in Phuket requires an international driving permit and careful attention to local traffic rules, as roads can be busy and narrow.

• Car rental prices vary from 800 to 1,500 THB per day for cars and 250 to 500 THB per day for motorbikes, depending on the vehicle type and rental duration.

• Fuel stations are widely available along the route, and tolls are not applicable on this drive.

• Using GPS or mobile maps is recommended to navigate efficiently and avoid traffic jams, especially during weekends and holidays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Patong to Phi Phi Island to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Step 1: Book your ferry or speedboat tickets online in advance to secure your preferred departure time and avoid last-minute hassles, especially during high season.

• Step 2: Arrange transport from your Patong accommodation to the boat departure point, either by taxi, shuttle, or self-drive, allowing extra time for traffic.

• Step 3: Arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and boarding procedures without rushing.

• Step 4: Carry essential items like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket, as boat rides can be hot or windy depending on the weather.

• Step 5: Upon arrival at Phi Phi Island, use prepaid taxis or local longtail boats to reach your accommodation, as private vehicles are not allowed on the island.

• Step 6: Keep your return tickets or plan your onward travel in advance, as boat services may be limited in the evening or during bad weather.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always check the weather forecast before traveling, as rough seas during monsoon season can disrupt boat services and cause cancellations.

• Drink only bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach to prevent travel-related illnesses common in tropical climates.

• Book tickets through reputable operators or official websites to avoid scams and ensure reliable service and safety standards.

• Use local transport apps like Grab or arrange hotel shuttles for hassle-free transfers between Patong and piers, especially late at night.

• Pack light and waterproof bags to protect your belongings from sea spray and unexpected rain during the boat journey.

• Carry some Thai Baht in cash, as many small vendors and transport services do not accept cards or digital payments on Phi Phi Island.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Patong to Phi Phi Island is during the dry season when the sea is calm and boat services operate smoothly. Avoid the monsoon months for safer and more comfortable travel.

Peak tourist seasons bring crowded boats and higher prices, so plan accordingly to enjoy a relaxed journey.

• Avoid traveling during the Songkran festival (mid-April) and New Year holidays when transport services are heavily booked and traffic is congested.

• Monsoon season from May to October can cause rough seas and frequent cancellations, making travel unpredictable and less comfortable.

• Early morning departures often offer smoother seas and less crowded boats compared to afternoon trips, enhancing your travel experience.

• Check local weather updates and sea conditions on the day of travel to avoid delays and ensure safety.

Arrival at Phi Phi Island & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Tonsai Pier, Phi Phi Island’s main entry point, you will find a small but busy harbor area with local shops, restaurants, and transport options. The island is pedestrian-only, so expect to walk or use boats for local travel.

Common transport options include longtail boats to nearby beaches or resorts, and walking paths to accommodations in Tonsai Village. Prepaid taxis are not available, but local boat operators offer fixed-price transfers.

Accommodation options cluster around Tonsai Village and Loh Dalum Bay, both within walking distance of the pier. Carry your luggage carefully, as porters may charge extra for heavy bags.

Conclusion

Traveling from Patong to Phi Phi Island is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Ferries provide an affordable and scenic route, while speedboats offer faster and more flexible travel for those willing to spend more.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging reliable transfers will help you enjoy a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your trip and look forward to the breathtaking beauty of Phi Phi Island.