Getting to Koh Lipe from Koh Lanta is simpler than many travelers assume. You have two main choices: a slower multi-leg route that keeps costs down, or a faster direct ferry that gets you there in about three hours. Both work well, and our team is happy to help you figure out which fits your schedule and budget.
Understanding your transport options
The budget-friendly way to reach Koh Lipe from Koh Lanta involves taking a bus or van to Trang, then continuing to Pak Bara Pier, and finally boarding a ferry to the island. This route takes roughly nine to ten hours. The faster alternative is a direct ferry crossing that reduces travel time to around three hours, though the upfront cost is higher.
Here is how they stack up:
| Route | Transport | Duration | Cost (THB) | Notes | |——-|———–|———-|————|——-| | Koh Lanta → Trang | Bus/Van | 3–4 hours | 300–400 | First leg of the budget route | | Trang → Pak Bara Pier | Bus/Van | 2–3 hours | 200–300 | Connects to the ferry terminal | | Pak Bara Pier → Koh Lipe | Ferry | 1.5–2 hours | 500–800 | Final leg to the island | | Combined budget route | All three | ~9.5 hours | 1,000–1,500 | Best value for money | | Tigerline Ferry | Direct ferry | ~3 hours | 800–2,400 | 1–2 departures daily | | Bundhaya Speed Boat | Direct ferry | ~3 hours | 1,000–2,200 | Morning departures most common |
Tigerline Ferry and Bundhaya Speed Boat operate the direct ferry services. Tigerline runs one to two crossings per day, while Bundhaya Speed Boat typically departs in the morning. Prices vary depending on when you book. Advance reservations generally fall on the lower end of the range, while last-minute tickets cost more.
Step by step: the multi-leg budget route
The combined bus and ferry route via Trang and Pak Bara Pier is the most affordable option at roughly 1,000 to 1,500 THB per person. You travel from Koh Lanta to Trang by bus or van first. From Trang, another vehicle takes you to Pak Bara Pier, where you board the ferry to Koh Lipe.
This route is popular with backpackers and travelers who do not mind a longer journey in exchange for significant savings. You can often purchase combined tickets from a single operator on Koh Lanta, which simplifies the logistics and sometimes reduces the overall cost compared to buying each segment separately.
The trade-off is time. This route takes nearly double the duration of a direct ferry, so it works best if you are not in a rush and want to stretch your travel budget further.
Tips for a smooth arrival
A few practical steps can make your transfer much easier. We recommend departing Koh Lanta in the morning whenever possible. Early ferries give you a full day to settle in, and if any connections run behind schedule, you will still have daylight hours to sort things out.
Booking your entire journey with one operator is one of the simplest ways to reduce stress. When something goes smoothly, you have one point of contact instead of juggling multiple providers. Many travel agents on Koh Lanta offer combined tickets that cover the full route.
Once the ferry reaches Koh Lipe, you arrive at Pattaya Beach on the western side of the island. From there, it is a short walk or a quick songthaed ride along the beach path to Sunrise Beach, where our resort is located. Our team can help arrange this last step for you upon arrival.
> Insider Tip: Bring a light waterproof bag for your carry-on essentials. Speed boats can get spray from waves, and protecting your phone and valuables means one less worry during the crossing.
Booking your transfer
You have several ways to arrange your journey. Local travel agents on Koh Lanta sell combined bus and ferry packages that cover the entire route. Online booking platforms let you compare prices and schedules from different operators before you arrive. You can also purchase tickets at ferry company offices or docks, though availability can be limited during high season.
Booking ahead saves money and guarantees a spot, especially during peak travel periods when ferries fill up quickly. Arriving at the pier with your ticket already in hand removes one variable from your travel day.
Our team at Salisa is always ready to help guests navigate their transfer options. Whether you are still deciding between routes or need a hand coordinating the final leg to our resort, we are just a message away. We want your arrival at Sunrise Beach to feel smooth and welcoming, so you can start your stay with us relaxed and ready to enjoy the island.
Q: How long does the journey from Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe take? A: Budget travelers choosing the multi-leg route via Trang and Pak Bara Pier should plan for approximately nine to ten hours total. Direct ferries cut this down to around three hours.
Q: Which option is cheaper — the combined bus and ferry route or the direct ferry? A: The multi-leg route via Trang and Pak Bara Pier typically costs between 1,000 and 1,500 THB per person. Direct ferries range from 800 to 2,400 THB depending on the operator and how far in advance you book.
Q: Can I book the entire Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe transfer in advance? A: Yes. Combined bus and ferry tickets are available through travel agents on Koh Lanta and through various online platforms. Booking ahead is especially recommended during peak season, when services can fill up quickly.
For more details, see this complete guide to traveling to Koh Lipe from Lanta from SmartEnPlus.
