Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yao Yai by Speedboat
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Koh Yao Yai Information
The Big Long island (Koh Yao Yai) is an astonishing island. It is less developed than its sister Koh Yao Noi yet, it is also way bigger than its and has plenty of opportunities for swimmers, divers, and snorkelers to enjoy the emerald water of this fascinating island. From Phuket, the speedboats depart from three piers ( Bang Rong Pier, Laem Hin Pier, and Chianwanich Pier) Bang Rong Pier has the most trips to Koh Yao Yai, while the others have only one or two speedboat trips per day. From Krabi, the speedboats leave from (Talen Pier and Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang) only one trip a day and the boat makes a stop at the sister island Koh Yao Noi before continuing to Koh Yao Yai. In order to explore the island, you will have to rent your own wheels or hire a taxi, since there is no public transportation on the island.
Popular Routes
Popular crossings to Koh Yao Yai — pick a route to book.
Departures from Koh Yao Yai
The first 8 of 31 departures leaving Koh Yao Yai today — pick one to choose your date and book.
- 30mDirect4.76 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Hotel pick-up Refund available Amend available
- 4h 35m6 stops44 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 40m1 stop5.91 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 1h2 stops7.29 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 1h 30m3 stops11 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 50m2 stops6.55 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 1h 50m3 stops13 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 3h 40m5 stops26 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
Pick-Up
Drop-Off
Arrivals in Koh Yao Yai
The first 8 of 37 services arriving in Koh Yao Yai today — pick one to choose your date and book.
- 30mDirect4.19 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 40m1 stop4.76 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 6h 50m8 stops49 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 1h 30m2 stops7.94 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 30mDirect4.76 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Hotel drop-off Refund available Amend available
- 1h 50m3 stops13 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
- 50m1 stop6.55 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Hotel pick-up Refund available Amend available
- 1h 40m2 stops7.94 kg CO₂Estimated CO₂ · per passengerEstimated CO₂ emissions per passenger for this trip. That is higher than similar trips in the industry.LowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
Hop onward from here
Piers
Chong Lard Pier
Klong Hia Pier
Koh Yao Yai Information
About Koh Yao Yai
Halfway between Phuket and Krabi, lies the magical island of Koh Yao Yai. It's known for its fishing villages, the mangroves, the sandy shores, the coconut plantations, and of course the breathtaking underwater life. The surrounding waters of the island are filled with colorful coral reefs and dotted with dive sites like the pinnacles of shark point and the king cruiser wreck.
Koh Yao Yai is the larger of the two Koh Yao islands in Phang Nga Bay. It has stayed noticeably quieter than its neighbours, with a mostly Muslim local community, rubber and coconut smallholdings inland, and long stretches of beach that rarely feel crowded. Days here run at a slow pace: longtail boat trips, cycling between villages, and sunsets over the limestone karsts that rise out of the bay.
How to get to Koh Yao Yai
The island is reached by boat, and Koh Yao Yai is well connected across the Andaman coast. Our booking system currently lists 74 routes bookable routes to and from the island, so most travellers can find a direct or single-connection option rather than backtracking to the mainland.
Crossings link Koh Yao Yai with the Phuket and Krabi shores as well as the island chain running south. Some journeys are a short hop across the bay; others are longer island-hopping legs that call at several stops along the way. Because vehicle types, timings and frequencies change by season and operator, check the live results for the exact departure you want.
Operators serving the island
Companies running services here include Bundhaya Speed Boat, Green Planet and Koh Yao Sun Smile, alongside other several operators services shown at the time of searching. Each operator sets its own pier, luggage allowance and check-in time, so read the conditions on your chosen departure before paying.
Popular routes to and from Koh Yao Yai
The island connects to Ao Nang, Koh Jum, Koh Kradan, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe and Koh Mook, plus six more destinations bookable through the same search.
- Ao Nang — the handiest gateway for Railay, Krabi Town and onward mainland transport.
- Koh Lanta — a common next stop for travellers heading south along the coast.
- Koh Jum — a small, low-key island between Krabi and Lanta.
- Koh Mook and Koh Kradan — the Trang islands, known for the Emerald Cave and quiet beaches.
- Koh Lipe — the far southern end of the Andaman route, near the Malaysian border.
Fares vary by operator, season and how far ahead you book. Live prices start from ฿390 on the search results page, where you can compare every available departure side by side.
Piers and arrival points
Koh Yao Yai has piers on both the northern and eastern sides of the island, and the one you use depends on where you are coming from and which operator you travel with. Your ticket and confirmation will name the exact pier — check it before you set off, as the piers are some distance apart and a taxi or motorbike transfer is usually needed to reach accommodation.
On arrival, local transport is informal: motorbike taxis, songthaews and hotel pick-ups meet most boats. If you are arriving late in the day, it is worth arranging a transfer with your accommodation in advance.
Practical travel information
There are no banking facilities on the island so you better withdraw the cash you'll need on the island before going on your trip. Many small guesthouses, restaurants and boat operators are cash-only, so bring more than you think you will need.
A few other things worth knowing:
- Weather matters. The Andaman monsoon runs roughly from May to October, when seas can be rougher and some sailings are adjusted or cancelled for safety.
- Arrive early. Piers are small and check-in usually closes well before departure.
- Respect local customs. The island's community is largely Muslim; modest dress away from the beach is appreciated, and alcohol is not sold everywhere.
- Pack light. Boats and pier walkways are not built for oversized luggage.
What to see and do
Snorkelling and diving are the main draws, with day trips out to the reefs and pinnacles in the surrounding bay. Beyond the water, the island rewards slow exploring: cycle or ride between the fishing villages, kayak through the mangroves, visit the coconut and rubber plantations inland, and watch the sunset from the west-coast beaches. Longtail trips to nearby Koh Yao Noi and the smaller islets of Phang Nga Bay are easy to arrange locally.
Book your trip to Koh Yao Yai
Compare operators, departure times and prices across all 74 routes routes serving Koh Yao Yai in one place, then book with instant confirmation. Search availability for your travel date to see today's live timetable and fares.
Highlights
Shark Point and King Cruiser Wreck
Klong Son Beach
Doctor Saad
Koh Yao Yai Village
Frequently asked questions
Where is the pier that my ferry departing from?
Phuket Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents; we are happy to help.
Ferry Samui :
FWe understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
Bali Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Departure Point Information page for the most comprehensive information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
What are the tourist seasons ?
Phuket Ferry :
Phuket really just has two seasons, which are known as "high season" and "low season" (or "green season"). During the low season months (May- September), boat numbers are reduced. During the high season (October - April), boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options.
Ferry Samui :
There are three distinct weather seasons on the tropical island of Koh Samui: the dry season (December until February), the hot season (March until August) and the rainy season (September until November).
Bali Ferry :
Bali actually has a variety of tourist periods, notably around the Balinese New Year, 15 December - 15 January, and 1 June - 30 September. During these high traffic periods, boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options. The quieter periods are between 16 January - 30 April and 1 October - 14 December historically.
Will bad weather affect my travels?
Ferries are large and can usually operate in the rain, except in extremely bad weather. During storms or strong winds, the journey may take a little longer than usual.
Speedboats are more likely to be canceled than ferries. If a trip is canceled due to bad weather, you can choose to receive a refund or reschedule. Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip.
On rough days, we recommend bringing motion sickness medication and taking it about 20 minutes before boarding if you are prone to seasickness. Boat staff may also provide Dramamine upon request, but you will need to remain indoors during rough conditions. On sunny and calm days, the sun deck is open for passengers to enjoy the weather.
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.
When will I receive my ticket confirmation?
After completing your online booking, your reservation will remain in “Pending” status until it is processed. Once confirmed, we will send your e-ticket via email. The process is usually very quick.
On the day of travel, please present your e-ticket to the ferry staff at the relevant booking counter. If you do not receive your confirmation within 24 hours, contact us immediately.
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.
