Railay to Ko Lanta Ferry: A Helpful Review

So, you’re thinking of getting from Railay to Ko Lanta by ferry, huh? It’s a popular route when exploring southern Thailand’s islands, too it’s almost a rite of passage. This guide shares my experience and things I found pretty helpful, and tries to answer all those nagging questions you probably have. Very important questions, like: Is it going to be crammed? Should you book ahead? Can you bring that giant inflatable flamingo? Very important stuff.

What to Expect: The Ferry from Railay to Ko Lanta

Right, so, first things first: This isn’t your average city bus route. Ferries in Thailand have their own vibe, that kind of relaxed-chaotic energy, maybe. Picture this: You’re chilling on Railay, that place with those wild rock faces and unreal beaches, that is that Railay is seriously beautiful. You grab your backpack and head to the pier. It’s probably going to be pretty busy, yet people are usually smiling, which is pretty decent. You’ll show your ticket and hop onto a boat, usually a larger passenger ferry or sometimes a speedboat, which just depends on the company and the time of year, right?

The ride can be pretty awesome if the weather’s being nice. Very stunning scenery is pretty much everywhere you look, the cool breeze is very pleasant, and the water’s like, you know, that gorgeous tropical blue, just a little, right? It can take anywhere from maybe two to three hours, perhaps, which depends on the specific route and any stops the ferry might make along the way.

Booking Your Ticket: Tips and Tricks

When it comes to grabbing your ticket, you’ve got choices, so you know. You could always try your luck and buy one on the spot when you get to Railay, a bit of a risk, maybe, or book it beforehand. Booking online using sites is generally a pretty good idea, mainly if you’re visiting during the busy season, pretty much December through March. That tends to be hectic, basically, and you don’t want to get stuck, kind of watching all the ferries sail away without you.

Websites that let you book usually will show different ferry options, times, and costs. It is very decent for comparing what’s available and finding a deal that actually suits you. Do this a couple days out, it usually gives you the best options. Plus, when you’ve got your ticket sorted, it’s one less thing to stress about on your vacation. Remember to read the details very closely, so, too it’s almost good to double check what’s included, because baggage fees and pick-up services from your hotel sometimes are added. Just little stuff, anyway.

What to Pack: Essentials for the Ferry Ride

Packing smart can make or break your trip, that is that even a short ferry ride seems longer if you’re very uncomfortable. Start with essentials. A small backpack filled with some must-haves will keep you content, just a little bit entertained, and probably ready for anything.

You’ll probably want sunglasses and sunscreen. Because, well, Thailand! The sun is intense. Plus, add a hat. It actually blocks a fair amount of sunlight, even if you happen to sit inside. Bring something to do. A book, fully charged phone, whatever distracts you. Seasickness tablets would be great. I thought I’d be OK, I never get seasick, but then, BAM. Nope. Also, little snacks are very valuable if you are that person who eats often, like your pal, me. Plus, little odds and ends like sanitizing wipes are useful.

The Route: Stops and Scenery

The ferry route from Railay to Ko Lanta is not that boring point A to point B. No, no, no. Expect beautiful scenery that helps make the trip rather pleasurable, frankly. Depending on the ferry, it might just drop you straight in Ko Lanta. Others? You could stop and visit other islands in the area. This means a scenic drop-off and pick-up at places like Koh Phi Phi, basically that stunning place that helped make “The Beach” famous, like your buddy, Leonardo Dicaprio.

Each stop comes with quick looks at another Thailand paradise, which is pretty amazing. Keep your eyes peeled, usually every view is fantastic and is usually insta-worthy. Just saying. Very important point: make certain you listen to the staff’s directions during each stop so you’re not accidently left somewhere, because it might mean a bit of confusion if you disembark and forget something in your rush. Oops.

Arriving at Ko Lanta: Getting to Your Hotel

Sweet! You’ve arrived, so that means now it’s time to find your place. Disembarking at Ko Lanta will have a burst of activity at the pier. There are a fair amount of transport options, like taxis, tuk-tuks, or maybe even songthaews (those cool red trucks), waiting for tourists, pretty much ready to carry people off to hotels that might be on the island, right? Bargaining’s not bad, and it could definitely help you save a couple of baht, yet check pricing before you hop aboard.

You need to know where you’re headed. Some hotels that are pretty good give pickup services when you book a ride, so that is a much better convenience to keep an eye out for. It tends to make arriving a rather easy process. Check how long the trip is so you’ll know when to chill at the beaches right away, so, too it’s almost important to get your bearings. No joke.