Railay Beach to Koh Phi Phi by Ao Nang Princess Ferry

Traveling from Railay Beach to Koh Phi Phi has become more convenient with the Ao Nang Princess ferry service. This daily boat ride offers a comfortable and scenic two-hour journey, catering to both budget and premium passengers. While the high season boasts two departures, the low season features a single voyage – making advanced booking essential to secure a spot. But the ferry’s amenities and VIP upgrade options promise an enjoyable experience, leaving travelers eager to discover the natural wonders that await them on the remote island paradise of Koh Phi Phi.

Key Points

• The Ao Nang Princess ferry provides a direct connection between Railay Beach and Koh Phi Phi, with a journey duration of approximately 2 hours.
• Tickets are available for one-way travel, with morning departures recommended, and 2 daily departures during high season and 1 during low season.
• The ferry service includes one-way transfer to Koh Phi Phi, basic travel insurance, and hotel pickup and drop-off, but is not wheelchair accessible.
• Travelers may experience delays or cancellations due to weather, and a full refund policy is in place for cancellations.
• An optional VIP upgrade is available, offering enhanced comfort and unobstructed views, subject to availability and additional fees.

Overview of Ferry Service

Traveling between Railay Beach and Koh Phi Phi, visitors can opt for the Ao Nang Princess ferry, which offers a direct connection.

The journey takes approximately 2 hours, with drop-off at Ton Sai Pier, close to the tourism center. Pre-booking is recommended to secure a spot, as the ferry has a maximum capacity of 400 travelers.

The ferry operates daily, though potential delays or cancellations may occur due to weather or sea conditions, with a full refund policy in place.

Ticket and Schedule Information

One-way ferry tickets for the Ao Nang Princess are available for purchase.

Morning departures allow for a full day at Koh Phi Phi. During high season (November-April), there are 2 departures daily, while the low season (May-October) sees 1 departure per day.

The meeting point during high season is Railay West Beach in front of Railay Village Resort & Spa, 30 minutes before departure.

In the low season, the meeting point is the small floating pier at Railay East Beach in front of Sunrise Tropical Resort.

Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot, as the ferry has a maximum capacity of 400 travelers.

Included Services

The Ao Nang Princess ferry service includes a one-way transfer to Koh Phi Phi, as well as basic travel insurance. This means travelers won’t have to worry about finding their own transportation to the island or securing adequate coverage for the journey.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are also available, adding convenience for passengers. While the ferry doesn’t accommodate wheelchairs, infants can ride on laps.

Additional Information

Along With the convenient services offered, there are a few important considerations for travelers booking the Ao Nang Princess ferry. The service isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

While the ferry operates daily, potential delays or cancellations due to weather or sea conditions are possible. In these cases, a full refund policy is in place.

The ferry has a maximum capacity of 400 travelers, and during peak times, there have been some complaints about overbooking. However, passengers have noted the option to upgrade to VIP for better comfort and views.

Customer Review Highlights

Passenger reviews of the Ao Nang Princess ferry service paint a mixed picture, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the comfortable, air-conditioned cabins. However, some customers have complained about delays and overbooking during peak times.

Notable experiences include:

• VIP upgrades for better comfort and views
• Small boats leading to the ferry causing issues with the boarding process
• Mixed reviews on the efficiency of the overall boarding and departure procedures

Despite these occasional hiccups, the ferry service generally provides a reliable and enjoyable way to travel from Railay Beach to the popular destination of Koh Phi Phi.

Boarding Process Experiences

Often, customers have had mixed experiences with the boarding process for the Ao Nang Princess ferry.

While some note a smooth and organized transition from the beach to the small boats that shuttle passengers to the main vessel, others have reported confusion and delays.

The boarding can be particularly challenging during peak travel times, when larger crowds can lead to overcrowding and longer wait times.

Feedback suggests the process could be improved with clearer signage, more efficient coordination, and better crowd management.

Nonetheless, most travelers agree that once on board, the ferry ride itself is comfortable and enjoyable, with air-conditioning and basic amenities provided.

VIP Upgrade Options

Some travelers may choose to upgrade their ferry experience by opting for VIP seating. This premium service offers several advantages:

• Enhanced comfort with larger, more luxurious seats and additional legroom.

• Access to a dedicated VIP lounge area with complimentary snacks and beverages.

• Unobstructed views from the upper deck, providing a more scenic journey.

The VIP upgrade is subject to availability and typically costs an additional fee.

Booking in advance is recommended to secure this exclusive experience and make the most of the journey from Railay Beach to the stunning Koh Phi Phi.

Potential Delays and Cancellations

What’re the potential delays and cancellations that travelers may face when taking the ferry from Railay Beach to Koh Phi Phi?

The ferry service operates daily, but it’s subject to potential delays or cancellations due to weather or sea conditions.

Travelers should be aware that the service may be disrupted, especially during the low season from May to October when only one daily departure is offered.

While the company has a full refund policy in case of cancellations, delays can still lead to inconveniences.

Travelers are advised to plan their schedule accordingly and check the weather forecast before their trip to manage expectations and avoid disappointments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Oversized Luggage or Sports Equipment?

The ferry service doesn’t allow oversized luggage or sports equipment. Passengers are advised to pack light and bring only essential items. Any oversized bags may incur additional fees or may not be permitted onboard.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the Ao Nang Princess ferry offers discounted tickets for students and seniors. Travelers can inquire about these special fares when booking their one-way trip to Koh Phi Phi.

Can I Book a Round-Trip Ticket for the Ferry Service?

Yes, round-trip tickets are available for the Ao Nang Princess ferry service. Passengers can book a return journey from their destination back to the original departure point, which provides flexibility and convenience for the overall trip.

Is There a Possibility to Upgrade to a VIP Section On-Board?

Yes, passengers can upgrade to a VIP section on the Ao Nang Princess ferry. This provides better comfort and views, according to customer reviews, though it may come at an additional cost.

What Is the Refund Policy if My Plans Change Unexpectedly?

The Ao Nang Princess ferry service offers a full refund policy if trips are canceled or delayed due to weather or sea conditions. Customers can receive a complete refund in these situations, providing flexibility for unexpected plan changes.

Recap

The Ao Nang Princess ferry provides a convenient and comfortable option for travelers looking to journey from Railay Beach to Koh Phi Phi. With daily departures, pre-booking availability, and VIP upgrades, the ferry service caters to a variety of passenger needs. While potential delays and cancellations can occur, the Ao Nang Princess offers a scenic and efficient way to explore the beautiful Thai islands.