Traveling between Koh Lipe and Koh Phangan—two of Thailand’s most picturesque islands—requires multiple transfers, as there is no direct ferry connection. However, a well-coordinated speedboat–minivan–ferry combination offers the fastest and most efficient route available, taking approximately 10–11 hours in total.
🧭 Quick Overview
- Recommended Route: Speedboat → Minivan → Ferry
- Total Journey Time: 10–11 hours
- Typical Departure Time: 09:30 AM (from Koh Lipe)
- Estimated Arrival Time: 08:00–08:30 PM (Koh Phangan)
- Cost (One-way): ฿3,120–฿3,960
- Main Operators: Smart En Plus, Kamolrat Travel and Transport
- Daily Services: 1–2 combined transfer services
🛣 Step-by-Step Travel Guide
1. Koh Lipe → Pak Bara Pier
- Mode of Transport: Speedboat
- Departure Time: 09:30 AM (from Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe)
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Important Note:
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure for check-in. During the high season, advance booking is highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand.
2. Pak Bara Pier → Donsak Pier
- Mode of Transport: Minivan (air-conditioned)
- Departure Time: Approximately 11:30 AM (after speedboat arrival)
- Duration: ~5 hours
- Additional Info:
Most services include a brief stopover (e.g., in Trang). The minivan transfer is typically included in the combo ticket.
3. Donsak Pier → Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier)
- Mode of Transport: Ferry
- Departure Time: Between 5:00–6:00 PM
- Duration: 2.5–4 hours (depending on the ferry operator)
- Arrival: Estimated at 8:00–8:30 PM on Koh Phangan
🗺 Complete Route Overview
| Segment | Mode | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koh Lipe → Pak Bara Pier | Speedboat | 1.5–2 hours | Departs at 09:30 AM from Pattaya Beach |
| Pak Bara → Donsak Pier | Minivan | ~5 hours | Transfer included in ticket (may include stopover) |
| Donsak Pier → Koh Phangan | Ferry | 2.5–4 hours | Arrives by 8:30 PM at Thong Sala Pier |
🔀 Alternative Travel Options
💸 Budget Route (Bus + Ferry)
- Total Time: 12–14 hours
- Cost: ฿1,300–฿2,100
- Description:
Involves local buses and public ferries with multiple transfers, often at Hat Yai, Surat Thani, and Donsak. Suitable for budget-conscious travelers willing to trade comfort for cost savings.
✈️ Flight-Linked Option
- Time: 9–12 hours (variable)
- Cost: ฿5,000–฿10,000 (depending on flight and ferry)
- Description:
No direct flights connect Koh Lipe to Koh Phangan. This option involves:- Boat to Hat Yai or Trang
- Flight to Koh Samui
- Ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
This route is not faster than the speedboat–minivan–ferry option and is considerably more expensive.
🚫 No Direct Ferries
There are currently no direct ferries between Koh Lipe and Koh Phangan. All travel routes require at least one transfer (typically two).
📌 Essential Travel Tips
- Book in Advance:
Especially important during Thai holidays and the high tourist season (December to April). - Weather Considerations:
Rough seas during monsoon season (May to October) may delay departures or affect connections. - Pack Accordingly:
Bring snacks, water, power banks, and motion sickness tablets if needed, especially for the longer ferry segment. - Plan Buffer Time:
Allow some flexibility in your schedule in case of delays, particularly when traveling on tight connections.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the fastest way to travel from Koh Lipe to Koh Phangan?
The fastest option is a combined speedboat–minivan–ferry route, taking 10–11 hours door to door.
2. How much does the trip cost?
The one-way fare ranges from ฿3,120 to ฿3,960, depending on the operator and season.
3. Are there direct ferries between the two islands?
No. At least two transfers are required: one at Pak Bara and another at Donsak Pier.
4. Do I need to book the trip in advance?
Yes, particularly during peak travel periods, to ensure availability and optimal transfer timing.
5. Is the minivan transfer included in the ticket?
Typically, yes. When booked as a package through operators like Smart En Plus, all transfers are included.
6. How reliable is the timing?
Schedules are generally reliable, but weather conditions can cause delays, especially during the rainy season.
7. Can I fly between the two islands?
There is no direct flight. You would need to combine boat + flight + ferry, which is more expensive and not significantly faster.
8. Is it possible to make the trip in one day?
Yes, when starting with the 09:30 AM speedboat from Koh Lipe, you can arrive on Koh Phangan the same evening.
9. Where does the ferry arrive on Koh Phangan?
All ferries from Donsak Pier arrive at Thong Sala Pier on the western side of Koh Phangan.
10. What are the main transport operators for this route?
Smart En Plus and Kamolrat Travel and Transport are two reliable companies offering the full-service package.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: