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Where Exactly is Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is located in the southern part of Thailand, nestled in the Andaman Sea and forming part of the Krabi Province. Positioned approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Krabi Town, this tropical haven lies between the Phi Phi Islands and the mainland. The island is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse landscapes, including lush jungles. One little secret about Koh Lanta is that you can still find moments of serene seclusion on the beach at times.
Travel Options
When it comes to getting to Koh Lanta, there are several convenient choices to fit your needs. If you’re traveling by land, you can choose a van ride from Krabi to Koh Lanta, which generally costs between 500 and 650 THB per person, with vans accommodating up to 6 people.
If you prefer to travel by water, the ferry is a popular and scenic option, with prices ranging from 550 to 650 THB per person, and a luggage allowance of up to 20 kg.
For a more private and comfortable journey, you can choose a taxi, which typically costs between 3,000 and 4,500 THB. This option provides a more personalized travel experience, allowing you to enjoy a direct ride from Krabi to Koh Lanta without the shared space of a van. It’s ideal if you prefer a bit more privacy, flexibility with departure times, and the convenience of having your own vehicle for the trip.
For a faster journey, you can choose a private speed boat, with prices ranging from 1,300 to 1,700 THB per person. This option is perfect if you’re looking to reach Koh Lanta quickly and prefer a more direct route. Grab is also available for about 4,400 THB. This option provides a convenient and comfortable way to travel to the island, offering a direct and hassle-free experience.
Arranging a transfer through your hotel in Krabi to Koh Lanta might offer better rates. However, you can also book directly with 12go for a potentially better rates. It’s a good idea to explore both options to find the most cost-effective solution. Check out 12go for current prices.
Our Experience
We chose the ferry to get to Koh Lanta, and since we were already in Krabi, our transport company arranged for a pick-up from our hotel to Nopparat Thara Pier. The ride was quick and easy, taking about 15 minutes with a few stops at other resorts to pick up fellow travelers. This smooth start set the tone for our journey.
Our Costs
For our trip, we paid 550 THB per person for the ferry from Ao Nang to Koh Lanta, and 200 THB per person for the transfer from Saladan Pier to our hotel. Regardless of the route you choose, reaching Koh Lanta will be an enjoyable part of your adventure, setting you up perfectly to relax on the island’s beautiful beaches and soak in its relaxed atmosphere.
Ferry Tips: What to Expect for Your Trip to Koh Lanta
At the pier, we checked in and received Lanta stickers to help identify our destination, as some passengers get off at Phi Phi Island. The process was so well-organized that we didn’t need to wait around. Upon arrival, we boarded the ferry right away, and our suitcases were efficiently collected and arranged on the ferry for us.
On the ferry, you have a few seating options: inside or outside on the deck. Both choices have their perks, depending on what you prefer. Inside, it can get quite humid and hot, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The ferry is large, so there are plenty of seats both inside and outside, so if you’re at the end of the line, there’s no need to worry. We didn’t stick to one seat; instead, we moved around and enjoyed different parts of the ferry.
Staying Cool on the Ferry: Why a Portable Fan is a Travel Essential
Inside the ferry, it can get quite humid and hot, even though there is air conditioning. Unfortunately, the air conditioning isn’t very efficient at keeping the space cool. To stay comfortable, it’s a good idea to bring a portable fan. This was one of the best purchases I made for our travels; I used it frequently on our trips and received several compliments and inquiries about where I got it. Having a portable fan can make a big difference in staying cool and comfortable during your journey.
If you’re interested in the portable fan that made our travels so much more comfortable, you can find similar models at local shops, 7-Eleven, or online. We even wrote a whole blog on Must-Try 7-Eleven Products in Thailand You’ll Love where we share some of our favorite finds. To get the exact fan we used, check it out on Amazon here. It’s definitely a worthwhile addition to your travel gear!
Set Sail to Paradise: Relaxing Views and New Friends on the Ferry to Koh Lanta
As we set off, the ride quickly became a relaxing and enjoyable experience. The journey offered stunning views of beautiful landscapes and towering limestone formations. The gentle breeze and captivating scenery made it easy to daydream about the adventures ahead. Onboard, we had the chance to meet fellow travelers, exchanging stories and experiences while soaking in the atmosphere.
When we left Nopparat Thara Pier, our ferry made two stops along the way—one at Railay Beach and another at Phi Phi Island—to pick up additional passengers. The boat ride took about 2 hours and 15 minutes and was incredibly enjoyable, offering a scenic and relaxing journey to Koh Lanta.
Make a Stop in Phi Phi: Discover the Island Before Heading to Koh Lanta
If you haven’t had a chance to visit Phi Phi Island and want to explore it before heading to Koh Lanta, now’s a great opportunity. You can stop by Phi Phi for a few days and then continue your journey to Koh Lanta. The best part is that the cost of the boat ride remains the same—you just make a stop and pick up where you left off a few days later. Is it worth the stop? We loved Phi Phi and found plenty of things to do and enjoy. For more details, check out our Phi Phi blog here.
You’ll be picked up by a classic long-tail boat and transferred directly to your hotel on Phi Phi Island, adding an extra layer of adventure to your Thailand journey. This charming ride offers a unique and scenic way to start your stay on the island. The experience not only enhances your trip but also gives you a taste of the local way of travel.
Some of the travelers we met chose to spend a few days on Phi Phi Island before continuing on to Koh Lanta. We parted ways with them as they set off to explore the island’s stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, we were excited to dive into our own adventure, which included discovering the Top 12 Beaches to Explore on Koh Lanta—a perfect mix of relaxation and natural beauty!
Inside vs. Outside: Enjoying the Ferry Ride with Stunning Views and Essential Amenities
During our trip, we spent half of the time sitting inside the ferry and the other half outside. We especially loved being outside, where we could take in the breathtaking views, watch boats pass by, and listen to some music. Many travelers were out there jotting down notes in their journals or planning their next adventures. While the strong wind outside might not be for everyone, the stunning scenery makes it well worth it. Inside the ferry, you can also find a selection of snacks and drinks available for purchase, and there’s a restroom on board for your convenience. In contrast, private speed boats do not have restrooms, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly before setting off.
Enjoying the Scenic Ferry Ride to Koh Lanta with Refreshing Breezes
The ride was such an enjoyable experience. We were treated to breathtaking views of lush landscapes and dramatic limestone formations, with the gentle breeze making the whole ride feel refreshing. If you decide to spend more time outside on the boat, don’t forget to use good sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
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Smooth Arrival at Saladan Pier: Your Gateway to Koh Lanta
When we arrived at Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta, the process was smooth and well-organized. The ferry docked, and we were promptly guided off the boat. As we got off, we quickly noticed the vibrant activity around the pier, with locals and travelers alike bustling about.
Arrival at Koh Lanta: What to Expect at Saladan Pier and the Environmental Fee
Once you arrive at Saladan Pier on Koh Lanta, you’ll be required to pay a 10 THB per person environmental fee. If this is your first island stop in Thailand, don’t be surprised—many islands have similar fees to help maintain their natural beauty. The amount can vary from island to island, but this is a standard practice across many of the popular destinations.
Arriving in Koh Lanta: Easy Hotel Transfers and Friendly Local Assistance
Once we arrived in Koh Lanta, we needed to arrange a hotel transfer since it wasn’t included in our package. Finding a transfer was straightforward, and the friendly locals made the process smooth and stress-free. After settling in, we were feeling hungry, so we couldn’t wait to explore the food scene. Check out our post for the 10 Best Places to Eat in Koh Lanta, where we cover all the best spots to satisfy your cravings and make your trip even more delicious!
