Traveling between Thailand’s ports can seem complicated for travelers unfamiliar with local terminology and organization. Many of the main ports are crowded with ferries connecting islands and coasts, especially during the peak tourist season. Here are a series of tips to better navigate and take ferries in Thailand’s ports without making mistakes.
Key terms, what “Koh” and “Pier” mean.
Koh. In thailandese, “Koh” (o “Ko”) significa isola. Ad esempio, Koh Phi Phi si riferisce all’isola Phi Phi. Quindi, ogni volta che vedi “Koh” nel nome, sai che stai parlando di un’isola. Pier. “Pier” è un termine inglese ampiamente usato per indicare il molo o l’attracco. In Thailandia, vedrai spesso cartelli come Phuket Pier o Chalong Pier, che indicano i luoghi di partenza dei traghetti.
Thailand’s busiest ports for ferries to islands
Rassada Pier (Phuket)
Located in Phuket, Rassada Pier is one of the busiest ports in Thailand. It is the main departure point for ferries traveling to islands such as Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Yao Noi.
Ferries depart frequently, especially during the peak season (November-March), when tourists head to the islands.
Chalong Pier (Phuket)
Chalong Pier is another busy port in Phuket, used mainly for day trips to the Similan Islands , Coral Island, or for snorkeling activities. It is a good starting point for those traveling to smaller islands nearby.
Krabi Pier (Krabi)
Krabi Pier, also known as Klong Jilad Pier, is the access point for reaching Koh Phi Phi and other islands such as Koh Lanta. The proximity to tourist attractions such as Railay Beach makes this a popular port for travelers wishing to explore both the islands and the coast.
Donsak Pier (Surat Thani)
Donsak Pier is the main port of Surat Thani, a mainland city from which ferries depart for the famous Gulf of Thailand islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
This port is one of the main gateways for tourists who land in Surat Thani and want to head to the islands.
Ao Nang Pier (Krabi)
It is located near the famous resort of Ao Nang. From here ferries and longtail boats depart for islands such as. Koh Poda, Koh Hong, and Phi Phi islands. Ao Nang is often crowded during the peak season because of its proximity to Krabi’s famous beaches.
Pak Bara Pier (Satun)
Pak Bara Pier is the main port for those heading to the islands to the south, such as Koh Lipe and Tarutao National Park. Being further south, it is somewhat less busy than ports such as Rassada or Donsak, but it is essential for those who want to explore the islands of the South Andaman Sea.
How to find your way around a port in Thailand
Thai ports are often crowded, so it is important to arrive early enough before the ferry departs. Here are some tips for easily navigating and catching ferries in Thailand’s ports without confusion.
- Advance reservation. If possible, book tickets in advance, especially at busy ports such as Rassada Pier in Phuket or Donsak Pier in Surat Thani, where demand is high. This will help you avoid long lines or running out of seats.
- Follow the signs. Larger ports have signs in English that clearly indicate boarding areas, ticket office, and ferry departure points. For example, you will see signs for Departure and Arrivals near the Pier.
- Check departure times. Ferry times may change depending on sea conditions or season. Always check departure times well in advance and try to be at the port at least 30-45 minutes before boarding.
- Local transportation. Many ports are easily accessible by cab, tuk-tuk, or shared van. Check travel times in advance, especially if you are departing from tourist locations such as Phuket or Krabi.
- Check-in. At Thai ports, “check-in” for the ferry can be done at the port ticket office or directly at the dock. Always keep your ticket or reservation handy
Thai boarding signs: which ferries to take
- Ferry. Ferries are the most common means of transportation to the major islands. They offer much more space and comfort than fast boats, but can be slower.
- Speedboat. Fast boats that connect the main islands. Ideal for those with limited time as they reduce travel time compared to traditional ferries.
- Longtail Boat. Traditional Thai boats that transport tourists on short trips, often to beaches or small islands. You will commonly see them in places like Krabi and Phuket.
- Catamarani. I catamarani sono imbarcazioni a doppio scafo più veloci e stabili rispetto ai traghetti tradizionali. Sono molto apprezzati dai turisti che cercano un viaggio più comodo, specialmente su rotte più lunghe.
- Hydrofoils. Hydrofoils, or hydrofoils, are fast boats that use hydrofoil technology to rise above the water and travel faster. They are used for fast connections between more distant destinations.
FerryFinder’s tips for taking ferries in Thailand without hassle
Finding your way around a port in Thailand requires some planning, but once you understand key terms such as “Koh” (island) and “Pier” (pier), and familiarize yourself with the main ports, taking ferries in Thailand’s ports becomes simple and enjoyable. To take ferries in Thailand’s ports without getting confused, it is important to understand what the different types of boats are. Generally speaking, for longer trips in Thailand you have to take regular ferries, while for closer destinations you generally use fast ferries, catamarans, or even smaller boats. Choose the time to arrive in Thailand. The best time to visit Thailand’s destinations is from November to March, during the dry season, when more stable weather and calm seas make ferry connections safer and more reliable. From May to October, during the rainy season, some routes may be suspended due to rough seas.
Also read our article on the ideal months to travel to Thailand.
Booking in advance on FerryFinder, arriving early at the port, and following the signs will help you have a smooth experience.
