Phuket to Railay Ferry Guide: Schedules, Prices & Tips

Phuket to Railay Ferry: Schedules, Prices & Travel Tips

The journey from Phuket to Railay Beach is a popular route for both tourists and locals, connecting travelers to the best of Thailand’s Andaman coast. Offering breathtaking views and easy access to world-famous spots like Koh Lanta, and Phi Phi Island, Railay Bay is a dream destination filled with white sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and turquoise waters. Whether you’re here to relax, join snorkeling tours, or continue exploring nearby islands, this guide covers everything from schedules and prices to essential departure details, check-in instructions, and local travel tips.

Phuket to Railay Schedule and Pricing

Numerous ferry operators serve the route between Phuket and Railay Beach, each providing various schedules and prices. You can compare the options to find one that best suits your plans, whether that’s a fast speed boat or a leisurely ferry ride. Here are some top choices:

1. Travel and Tour Co. Ltd.  

   - Departure: 8:00 AM from Rassada Pier

   - Duration: Around 2 hours 

   Known for its affordability, this ferry is a great choice for travelers on a budget seeking an efficient route to Railay.

2. Bundhaya Speed Boat  

   - Departure: 10:00 AM from Phuket

   - Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours  

   This speed boat service offers the quickest journey, perfect for those wanting to maximize their time on Railay Beach or hop over to Phi Phi Island later in the day.

3. Koh Yao Sun Smile  

   - Departure: 11:00 AM from Phuket

   - Duration: About 2 hours   

   This service provides a balance of speed and budget, ideal for travelers who want an economical yet convenient option, with views of Koh Yao along the way.

4. Green Planet  

   - Departure: 1:30 PM from Phuket

   - Duration: Approximately 2 hours  

   An afternoon choice, Green Planet offers a relaxed pace and picturesque sights, making it an ideal option for late starters.

All operators provide a direct route to Railay Bay, connecting you with beautiful beaches, iconic limestone cliffs, and convenient connections to Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, and Nopparat Thara.

Departure Details

Departing from Phuket to Railay Beach offers different pier options, with the primary departure points being Rassada Pier and Bang Rong Pier. Each pier is equipped with facilities to make the waiting period comfortable, including cafes, snack shops, and restrooms. The boat trip includes multiple stops, docking at Chong Lard Pier on Koh Yao Yai, Manoh Pier on Koh Yao Noi, and Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang.

Upon arriving in Railay Bay, travelers will find themselves in a car-free zone. Longtail boats provide convenient local transport to nearby beaches like Nopparat Thara and Ao Nang. With easy access to these locations, Railay Beach serves as a strategic hub to explore the coast and island-hop.

Pricing Information

Pricing options for ferry services from Phuket to Railay vary, allowing travelers to select the best option for their schedules and budgets:

Economy option: Travel and Tour Co. Ltd. (700 THB) provides a cost-effective way to reach Railay.

Fastest option: Bundhaya Speed Boat (1,200 THB) is ideal for those looking to reach Railay Bay in the shortest time.

Balanced choices: Green Planet (900 THB) and Koh Yao Sun Smile (850 THB) offer convenient travel times at reasonable prices.

It’s recommended to book online, ensuring that you secure a preferred seat, compare pricing options, and choose the most convenient schedule for your travel needs. 

Check-in Instructions

To make the check-in process as smooth as possible, arrive at your departure pier at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Bring a printed or digital ticket and your ID or passport for verification. Facilities at Rassada Pier, Bang Rong Pier, and other major departure points include refreshment stands, restrooms, and shaded waiting areas, allowing you to relax before boarding. 

Important Travel Information

Traveling from Phuket to Railay offers easy access to some of the best experiences Thailand has to offer. Here are some additional travel tips to make the most of your trip:

- Luggage: Most ferry operators allow one checked bag 20 kg and a carry-on, with extra charges for additional luggage. Confirm with your specific operator if you have extra bags or oversized items.

- Weather Conditions: Travel schedules may vary according to weather, particularly during monsoon season. Keep an eye on updates from your operator or pier if the weather appears unstable.

- Island Hopping: From Railay Bay, you can easily access Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, Phi Island, Ko Lanta, and other nearby spots, ideal for day trips or overnight stays. With longtail boats readily available, Railay is a hub for travelers wanting to explore the coastline.

- On-Site Activities: Railay is famous for white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning limestone formations. Activities like snorkeling tours, rock climbing, and kayaking are popular options, making Railay a fantastic destination for adventure and relaxation alike.

For those planning day trips or looking to explore multiple islands, Railay’s central location near Koh Yao, Phi Phi Island, and Nopparat Thara makes it a perfect base. Whether you're visiting Thailand as part of a longer journey or simply exploring the region, this Phuket to Railay Beach route is a memorable experience, offering easy connections to destinations anywhere in the world.

Book your ticket today, arrive on time, and enjoy the scenic ride to one of Thailand’s most beautiful beach destinations.