Patong Beach Phuket to Phi Phi Island

by Vikas Sarna
(India)

Dear Sir,
I am visiting Phuket WITH FAMILY in Sep 2011 and want to visit Phi Phi island in the cheapest way with maximum adventure having lots of time.
Kindly let me know the cheaper to and from fares and timings to get the best deal and from where.
Thanks,
Vikas Sarna

Answer

Hi Vikas
A ferry is the cheapest way to get to Ko Phi Phi from Phuket.

The ferry to Phi Phi takes around 90 minutes, but depending on the conditions it can take longer. There are a few ferry companies that operate the ferry route from Phuket to Ko Phi Phi. The ferries depart Phuket at 8.30am and arrive around 10.00am. The return ferry leaves Phi Phi at 2.30pm. The cost of the ferry should include your land transfers to and from your resort to the pier. You can purchase your tickets for the ferry from travel agents and tour agencies in Phuket. Some of these include package tours which include sightseeing, snorkeling and lunch at Phi Phi Don all in the one price.

To do and see everything at an enjoyable pace at Phi Phi, it is best to stay a couple of nights on Phi Phi Don as there is just not enough time to see and do everything in one single day.

Phi Phi Hotels and Resorts at this time of the year are very affordable.

If you are only able to go to Phi Phi for one day a speed boat is the quickest option and will take around 45 minutes, just note that the condition's can be a little bit rough at this time of the year and a speed boat ride maybe the fastest option but it can also be a body shaking experience.

Speed Boats tours are not as cheap and they charge per head, they do however include transfers to and from your hotel, lunch at Phi Phi Don and snorkeling gear. Some of the speedboats carry up to 20 passengers and can be very crowded and you are on a very tight schedule.

There is another option, you may want to look into. It is not the cheapest way, but if you are strapped for time and want to see as much as possible you may want to look into chartering a private speed boat. These day trips are ideal for families or groups.
The difference between a speedboat charter to a speed boat tour group is that you and your family are the only people on-board, they offer a more relaxing and personalized service and are more flexible, you can stay longer at places you and your family want.

I hope this helps you decide on the best way for you and your family to experience the beautiful Phi Phi Islands and we hope that you have a wonderful family vacation in Phuket and Ko Phi Phi.

Jeff & Paula