Escape to Koh Lipe: Your Complete Travel Guide from Krabi
Looking for a tropical getaway off the beaten path? Koh Lipe, a serene island in Thailand’s far south, offers powdery white sands, vivid coral reefs, and fewer crowds than hotspots like Krabi or Koh Phi Phi. Located near the Malaysian border, this hidden gem is a dream destination—and getting there is part of the adventure.
This guide outlines everything you need to know for a smooth journey from Krabi to Koh Lipe, including travel options, route details, pricing, and essential tips.
🛥️ How to Get to Koh Lipe from Krabi
There are no direct flights or trains to Koh Lipe—it’s only reachable by sea. Travelers can choose between:
1. Direct Ferry or Speedboat
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Fast and scenic, but usually more expensive.
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Departs directly from Krabi’s main piers like Klong Jilad Pier.
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Takes about 4–5 hours depending on the operator.
2. Van + Ferry Combo Ticket
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Includes hotel or airport pick-up, van ride to a pier (usually Pakbara), and a ferry to Koh Lipe.
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Offers comfort and convenience, ideal for seamless travel.
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Travel time ranges from 5.5 to 7.5 hours.
💡 Note: The sea route is not direct due to stops at other islands. Total travel time varies based on weather and operator schedules.
📍 Departure Points in Krabi: Which Pier to Choose?
🚢 Klong Jilad Pier (Krabi Town)
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Closest pier for those staying in Krabi Town.
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Travel time to Koh Lipe: ~4.5 hours.
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Operators: Tigerline Travel, Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club.
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Example:
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Tigerline Travel: Departs 9:30 AM, arrives 2:45 PM, ~฿1,355.
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Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club: Departs 8:50 AM, arrives 1:30 PM, ~฿2,650, includes stop at Koh Lanta.
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🚐 Pakbara Pier (Satun)
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Requires a 3–5 hour van ride from Krabi.
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Shortest ferry ride: only 90 minutes to 2 hours.
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Best for combo tickets via operators like Jolly Travel or Smart En Plus.
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Budget-friendly option with total travel time of 5.5–7.5 hours.
⚓ Hat Yao Pier (Trang)
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Van ride from Krabi: ~2–3 hours.
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Ferry ride: ~3 hours.
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Daily ferry at 1:00 PM; total journey: 5–6 hours.
⏰ Schedules & What to Expect
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Speedboat/Direct Ferry: 3.5 to 6 hours.
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Van + Ferry: 5.5 to 7.5 hours.
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Vans are air-conditioned, with stops in Trang for rest.
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Ferries may stop at islands like Koh Lanta, Koh Tarutao, or Koh Khai, adding 15–30 minutes per stop.
🎟️ Booking Tips: Plan Ahead!
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Peak Season (Nov–Apr): Book 1 week in advance.
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Off-Peak (May–Oct): Book 2–3 days ahead.
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Last-minute? Risky, especially in high season.
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Use official agents or platforms like Smartenplus.co.th to secure seats.
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Combo tickets simplify the process and prevent missed connections.
💰 Ticket Prices
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Ferry from Krabi Pier | From ฿880 |
| Tigerline Travel (Direct) | ~฿1,355 |
| Satun Pakbara (Krabi to Koh Lipe) | ~฿2,650 |
| Van + Ferry from Krabi | ~฿1,000–฿1,800 |
📝 Note: Prices exclude:
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National Park Fee: ฿200 (plus ฿20 admin fee)
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Long-tail Boat Transfer Fee: ฿50 on arrival at Koh Lipe
🧳 Travel Tips: Be Island-Ready
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Arrive early: 30 mins before van/ferry departure.
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Pack light: 1 suitcase under 20kg + hand carry.
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Seasickness? Bring medication—rides can get bumpy.
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Cash matters: ATMs are limited; bring enough for fees and food.
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Sun protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
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Stay hydrated: Bring water and snacks.
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Waterproof your gear: Splashing is common on speedboats.
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Power bank & offline maps: Great for low-signal areas.
🏝️ Arriving in Koh Lipe: What Happens Next
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Floating Dock: Boats anchor offshore; a long-tail boat takes you to Pattaya Beach.
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Fees on Arrival: ฿50 (long-tail) + ฿200 (national park fee).
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Hotel Pickup: Coordinate with your accommodation. Most hotels offer beachside pickup.
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Walking Street: The island’s central hub starts right where you land—find food, tuk-tuks, or walk to your stay.
🌤️ When to Visit Koh Lipe
| Season | Details |
|---|---|
| November–February | Ideal weather, calm seas, lively vibe. |
| March–April | Hotter but less crowded. |
| May–October | Monsoon season: fewer ferries, rain, some closures—but lower prices. |
🌴 Exploring Koh Lipe (Short Preview)
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Walkable Island: No cars; walk or tuk-tuk.
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Beaches: Pattaya (bustling), Sunrise (serene), Sunset (peaceful views).
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Activities: Snorkeling, island hopping, diving, massage, and local food.
Koh Lipe is not just a destination—it’s a journey worth savoring. With the right planning and expectations, your escape from Krabi to this island paradise can be as memorable as the destination itself.
cr: https://www.smartenplus.co.th/blog/best-ferry-and-speedboat-options-from-krabi-to-koh-lipe