How to Get from Krabi to Phuket: A Complete Travel Guide

Krabi and Phuket are two of the most visited destinations in southern Thailand. Krabi is known for its peaceful beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and clear blue waters, while Phuket is famous for its vibrant nightlife, busy beaches, and large resorts. If you're planning to continue your Thailand trip and wondering how to get from Krabi to Phuket, the good news is that the two places are well-connected by road and sea. The distance between Krabi and Phuket is around 160 kilometers, and there are several convenient travel options for every type of traveler.

In this guide, we’ll explore all the best ways to travel from Krabi to Phuket, including by road, ferry, speedboat, and combined services.

1. By Road: Bus, Minivan, or Private Car

The most common and budget-friendly way to travel from Krabi to Phuket is by road. Whether you're in Krabi Town, Ao Nang, or Railay Beach, you’ll find plenty of road transport options heading to Phuket daily.

a. Minivan or Shared Van

Minivans are one of the most popular ways to travel between Krabi and Phuket. These vans typically pick you up from your hotel in Krabi and drop you at your hotel or a central location in Phuket. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic.

Minivan services are cheap and comfortable, with prices ranging from 300 to 500 THB per person. You can book them through local travel agents, hotels, or online platforms like 12Go Asia.

b. Public Bus

If you're traveling from Krabi Town, you can take a public bus from Krabi Bus Terminal to Phuket Bus Terminal 2. Buses are usually air-conditioned and take about 3 to 4 hours to reach Phuket. Tickets cost between 150 and 250 THB.

This option is best for budget travelers and backpackers who don’t mind basic transport.

c. Private Taxi or Car

For travelers who prefer comfort and privacy, hiring a private car or taxi is a great option. This is especially useful for families or groups. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and allows you to enjoy the scenic route at your own pace.

Prices for private taxis range from 2,000 to 3,000 THB depending on the vehicle type and your pickup location in Krabi. You can book a taxi online, through your hotel, or with local travel companies.

2. By Ferry or Speedboat: Enjoy the Scenic Route

Traveling from Krabi to Phuket by boat is a beautiful experience, especially during Thailand’s dry season (November to April). If you love sea views, this is the way to go.

a. Ferry

Ferries run between Krabi and Phuket daily, especially in the high tourist season. Most ferries leave from Ao Nang or Railay Beach and arrive at Rassada Pier in Phuket.

The ferry journey takes about 2 to 3 hours and costs between 400 and 600 THB. It’s a slow and relaxing ride through the Andaman Sea. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.

b. Speedboat

For those short on time or looking for an exciting ride, speedboats are faster but more expensive. They can take you from Krabi to Phuket in about 90 minutes.

Speedboat services are available from Ao Nang, Railay, and Krabi Town and usually operate in the morning. Prices start around 1,000 THB and may go higher depending on the operator.

3. Combination Packages: Boat + Bus or Van

Many travel companies offer combination tickets that include both land and sea travel. For example, you may take a boat from Krabi to a nearby island or pier, followed by a van or bus transfer to Phuket. These combo packages are convenient, especially if you’re staying in areas that are not directly connected by road or ferry.

Prices range from 600 to 1,200 THB depending on the route and service. You can book these packages through travel agents, online platforms, or hotel desks.

4. Things to Know Before You Travel

Travel Time: Most road and sea routes take around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, but always plan some buffer time for traffic or sea conditions.

Weather Conditions: If you're traveling between May and October (monsoon season), be cautious when choosing boat or ferry services, as sea conditions can be rough.

Booking Tips: Always check timings, pickup points, and whether hotel transfer is included. It’s best to book early during the high season (November to April).

Phuket Drop-off: If you're taking a ferry or speedboat, you’ll likely arrive at Rassada Pier. From there, you can take a taxi or local transport to Patong, Kata, or other beach areas.

Final Words

Whether you prefer a scenic boat ride or a smooth road trip, there are multiple options when you're wondering how to get from Krabi to Phuket. Minivans and buses are great for budget travelers, while ferries and speedboats add a touch of adventure. Private taxis offer comfort and convenience for families and small groups.

No matter which option you choose, the journey from Krabi to Phuket is filled with beautiful views and promises an exciting continuation of your Thailand adventure.