Koh Kradan Ferries

The port of Koh Kradan plays a key role in the ferry network of Thailand, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 8 ferry routes operated by 2 ferry companies, Koh Kradan serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Koh Kradan, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Koh Bulon (Pansand Resort) - Koh Kradan, Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) - Koh Kradan, Koh Ngai (Kaimuk Tong Resort) - Koh Kradan connecting Koh Kradan with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club, Tigerline Ferry run regular services from Koh Kradan, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Koh Kradan offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

The journey to Koh Kradan typically begins at Pak Meng Pier or Kuan Tung Ku Pier on the mainland of Trang Province. Regular ferry services operate daily during high season (November to April), with the crossing taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on sea conditions and your departure point. From Bangkok, travelers can reach Trang by train (12 hours) or domestic flight (90 minutes), followed by a 30-minute drive to the piers. If arriving by car, both piers offer secure parking facilities for a daily fee, though space can be limited during peak periods. Local songthaews (shared taxis) and private transfers are readily available from Trang town to connect you to the ferry departure points.

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Koh Kradan stands as one of Thailand's most pristine island gems with powder-white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This small, undeveloped island in Trang Province offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded tourist destinations in Thailand. As a ferry destination, Koh Kradan promises visitors an authentic slice of paradise where the natural beauty remains largely unspoiled and the pace of life slows to match the gentle lapping of waves on shore.

The ideal time to visit Koh Kradan falls between November and April during the dry season when the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and underwater visibility is exceptional for snorkeling. February and March offer the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures (around 30°C/86°F) and minimal rainfall, making them prime months for beach activities. The island essentially closes to tourists during the monsoon season (May to October) when most resorts shut down and ferry services become limited or cease entirely due to rough seas. The Valentine's Day Underwater Wedding Ceremony, held annually in February, brings a unique festive atmosphere to the island and might be worth planning around either to participate in or avoid, depending on your preference for crowds.

Koh Kradan serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning Trang archipelago by ferry. Koh Mook, just 15 minutes away by longtail boat, is home to the magnificent Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot) where a hidden beach is enclosed within a collapsed cave system. Koh Ngai, approximately 30 minutes by ferry, offers more developed accommodations and spectacular views of limestone karsts rising from the sea. For a day trip, consider Koh Libong (45 minutes away), where you might spot the rare dugongs that feed on the abundant seagrass. The Four Islands Tour, available from local operators, provides a scenic route connecting several of these gems in a single journey, showcasing the diverse marine landscapes of the Andaman Sea.

The main draw of Koh Kradan is its spectacular 3-kilometer main beach on the eastern coast, consistently rated among Thailand's most beautiful stretches of sand. Snorkeling directly off the beach reveals vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, particularly at the northern end where the Koh Kradan coral reef is protected as part of Hat Chao Mai National Park. Kayaking around the island's perimeter (about 2-3 hours) offers a different perspective of hidden coves and dramatic limestone formations. For culinary delights, the beachfront restaurants serve freshly caught seafood prepared in traditional southern Thai style, with spicy yellow curry and tom yam seafood soup being local specialties. The sunset viewing point on the island's western side provides a tranquil spot to end your day with panoramic ocean vistas.

Despite its small size (only about 240 hectares), Koh Kradan holds the Guinness World Record for the largest underwater wedding ceremony, where dozens of couples don scuba gear to exchange vows beneath the waves each Valentine's Day. The island's name 'Kradan' refers to the bamboo sleeping mats traditionally used in Thailand, possibly reflecting its long, flat shape when viewed from a distance. Until relatively recently, Koh Kradan had no electricity grid, with resorts relying entirely on generators that would shut down overnight, creating truly dark skies perfect for stargazing. The island is unique among Thai destinations as nearly 90% of its land falls under the protection of Hat Chao Mai National Park, ensuring its development remains minimal compared to other tourist islands.