loves2sing

We leave for Thailand (and Bali) in 3 weeks! There will be 6 of us (3 couples). Do we need to, (or should we), pre-book a ferry from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi? Or is it easy enough to get on one when we arrive at the pier? Also, our flight arrives in Phuket at 11:30am so I assume we'll first have to get ourselves down to the pier. Since there are six of us, I figure a shuttle will be better than taxis? But are there shuttles that do this trip all the time that we can just walk out and find? Or should we book that in advance as well?

loves2sing

Anyone? Anyone?

loves2sing

If we miss a "pre-paid" 1:30pm ferry, can we still catch the 2:30pm ferry with our same ticket?

Kathie

With 6 of you, you might want to consider a private speedboat transfer. It's pricey, but splitting the cost makes it affordable. Ask your hotel about arranging it.

loves2sing

Yes, that's something we've considered. Yes, a little pricey, but it's a possibility. But we're just looking at all options at this point.

Four of the people will already be there in the morning and staying near the pier. My husband and I arrive at at the airport at 11:30am. The plan is to take the 1:30pm ferry, but I need to know if for some reason my husband and I are delayed, and the others go onto Phi Phi without us....can we use our same pre-paid ticket for the 2:30pm ferry?

filmwill

I agree that a pre-arranged private boat may be the best option, especially if you're concerned about connection times, etc. If you have a larger party and you all are splitting the cost, it may make it more affordable. This also allows your the freedom to dictate how and when you leave.

As for transport to the piers in Phuket, it really depends on what arrangements you make. If you book a private boat, chances are you'll have the car transport to the pier included in the cost. If you are looking to take public ferry, yes there are buses from the airport, but keep in mind it's going to be a free-for-all. I don't think you can pre-book these buses. Granted, you're going at a very non-busy time of year so you shouldn't have any problems with overcrowding.

Not sure of your travel style, but the public ferries that go to Phi Phi are a very crowded and close-knit affair. Tons of young backpackers, squished together like sardines on their journey towards individual nirvana (or at least whatever drug of the night makes them get there).

You couldn't pay me to take the public ferry, but my backpacker days ended a good 15 years ago.

loves2sing

Thank you filmwill...it's been a while since my backpacker days as well, and drugs were never my thing, so I appreciate the heads up.

Anyone have a recommendation on who to book a pre-arranged private speedboat through? Also, do they all drop you off at the pier in Phi Phi? Or are they able to take you directly to your hotel? We're staying in the Long Beach area. Is there a pier in that location?