Railay to Ao Nang ferry

How the boats compare

12 of the 29 boats leave before midday and 17 in the afternoon, between 05:01 and 21:01. Journey times are similar on every boat, around 20 min, and fares range from about €7 to €33.

Arrivals in Ao Nang run from 05:21 to 21:21, and a typical fare on this crossing is around €26 per adult. Boats land at Ao Nam Mao pier and Ao Nang Nopparat Thara Pier Speedboat, so check which one is nearest your stay.

Railay Eco Tour runs the most departures (27), followed by Andaman Shuttle (1). Boats used include Longtail Boat and Ferry.

Departures use 2 different departure points in Railay: Floating Pier East Railay and East Railay Speedboat. Pick the boat that leaves closest to where you are staying.

Good to know before you go

Leaving Railay

Railay is on the mainland, but limestone cliffs cut it off from the road, so every arrival is by boat. Ferries between Ao Nang, Phi Phi and Lanta stop off Railay and passengers transfer by longtail, so expect to wade or climb down to a small boat with your bags.

Pack light: transfers to and from the big ferry are by longtail and you carry your own luggage across the boats.

Arriving in Ao Nang

Ao Nang is the busiest beach town on the Krabi coast and the easiest place to stay if you want boats to Railay, Koh Phi Phi and the Hong islands. Ferries leave from Nopparat Thara Pier at the western end of the beach, and longtail boats to Railay leave straight from the sand.

Most Ao Nang tickets include a free shared pick-up from your hotel to Nopparat Thara. Be in the lobby 30 minutes before the time on the ticket.

Weather and season

Best November to April, when the sea is calm. From May to October the south-west monsoon brings swells; big ferries keep running but many speedboat island-hops stop.