How to get from Phuket to Krabi?

Krabi is about 180 km from Phuket by road — or three times closer if you’re traveling by sea. You can get there by ferry, bus, taxi, or a rented car, depending on your budget and travel style.

The ferry and bus both take around 2.5 hours, but the price difference is big: ferry tickets start at $22, while a bus ride can cost as little as $4.30. A taxi is the fastest land option — about 1 hour 45 minutes — with prices starting from $83. Want more flexibility? Renting a car might be your best bet, with daily rates from $23.

Phuket doesn’t have a railway, so your only options are by road or sea. Buses are budget-friendly but not always the most comfortable — especially if you're traveling with family, seniors, or a lot of luggage. In those cases, booking a taxi or private transfer in advance is a safer and smoother option.

Prefer a scenic route with sea breeze and island views? Then hop on a ferry and enjoy the ride.

The bus is the most affordable way to get from Phuket to Krabi, with tickets from $4.3. Buses run on fixed routes without extra stops and take about 2.5 hours.

It’s not the most comfortable option — especially if you’re coming from the airport with luggage. The bus arrives at a station 12 km from the center, so you’ll need a taxi or songthaew to reach the resort area

Taking a ferry from Phuket to Krabi feels like part of the holiday — open sea, warm breeze, and no traffic. Boats run during the day and take 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route and weather.

Tickets start from $20–25. If you're packing bulky luggage or not a fan of waves — the ferry might not be your best match. Departure times can shift with the tides or weather, so it’s worth checking the schedule a day ahead.

Transfers are available around the clock, which is especially helpful if your flight arrives in the evening — when buses and ferries are no longer running. The driver meets you at the pickup point and helps with your luggage, so you don’t have to worry about carrying everything on your own.

This option is especially useful for families or anyone looking for a quieter, more direct trip. And with a pre-booked transfer, you’ll know exactly what to expect — no surprises along the way.

Why travelers often choose a transfer: – You can travel at any time, even late at night – It’s more convenient if you have large suitcases or extra bags – No need to deal with bargaining or unclear pricing

Travel time: ~1 hour 45 minutes Cost: from $65 Best for: families, travelers with luggage, late arrivals

You can rent a car at Phuket Airport easily — just bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card. Most well-known international companies have desks right at the terminal. Insurance is usually included in the daily rate, and a refundable deposit of around $160 is required.

Planning to drive yourself to Krabi or around the island? This gives you flexibility, especially if you're making several stops. Just keep in mind: if the rental price looks too good to be true or no deposit is required, it’s worth checking twice — such deals can come with risks.

Prefer not to drive? Kiwitaxi also offers a chauffeur hire service — a car with a professional local driver. It's a comfortable alternative if you don’t have the required driving experience, don’t want to navigate unfamiliar roads, or simply prefer to sit back and enjoy the trip. The service is available for one-way rides or full-day rentals, depending on your plans.

There are several ways to travel from Phuket to Krabi — by sea, road, or with a private driver. Each option has its pros, depending on your schedule, comfort level, and how much planning you're up for. Here's a quick overview to help you choose the best one for your trip:

Ferry

Waiting time at the pier: ~2.5 hours (depends on schedule)

Phuket → Krabi pier: ~2.5 hours by boat

Krabi pier → hotel: ~15–20 minutes by taxi or transfer

Ferries offer a scenic ride through the Andaman Sea — perfect if you're in no rush and want to enjoy the views. Keep in mind that ferries run only during the day and may be canceled in bad weather. Booking tickets in advance is a good idea in high season.

Bus

Waiting time at station: ~1 hour (depending on departure schedule)

Phuket → Krabi bus station: ~2.5 hours

Bus station → Krabi Town: ~50 minutes

Krabi Town → hotel: ~15–20 minutes

The bus is the most budget-friendly option, but it involves a few transfers and longer total travel time. Not the best pick if you're traveling with a lot of luggage or small children, but doable for solo travelers or backpackers.

Taxi or Private Transfer

Pickup time: Immediate, no waiting

Phuket → hotel in Krabi: ~1 hour 45 minutes, door-to-door

This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Krabi — especially if your flight arrives late or you just want to skip the hassle. Transfers are available 24/7, and you won’t need to figure out local transport or carry your luggage across piers and stations. Ideal for families, groups, or anyone looking for a smoother trip.

Car Rental

Pickup time at airport: ~20 minutes (with reservation)

Phuket → Krabi by car: ~2.5–3 hours

Navigation to hotel: DIY

Renting a car gives you freedom to explore along the way. Make stops at beaches, viewpoints, or even small towns. Most rental desks are located right at Phuket Airport — you’ll need a driver’s license, passport, credit card, and at least 1 year of driving experience (age 23+). Daily rates start from $27, and a refundable deposit (~$160) is usually required.

Prefer not to drive? Kiwitaxi’s chauffeur hire service is a flexible alternative. You get a private car with a professional driver for the full day or just a one-way ride — no need to navigate, park, or worry about traffic rules.

Even a short trip like Phuket to Krabi can become exhausting if things go off track — delayed ferries, unclear schedules, or confusing pickup points. A bit of planning goes a long way. Choose licensed transport, double-check your timing, and give yourself a buffer for connections. Whether you’re chasing beaches or just heading to your next hotel, the journey should feel like part of the vacation — not a test of patience.