Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) Ferry
The port of Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) plays a key role in the ferry network of Thailand, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 11 ferry routes operated by 2 ferry companies, Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.
Ferries depart regularly from Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier), with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.
Popular routes from this port include Koh Kradan - Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier), Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) - Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier), Phuket Airport - Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) connecting Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) 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 Tigerline Ferry, Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club run regular services from Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier), 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 Lanta (Saladan Pier) offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.
Route Overview
Date Updated: 2025
Reaching Koh Lanta's Saladan Pier
Travelers typically reach Koh Lanta via Krabi (2 hours by road and ferry) or from Phuket (approximately 3-4 hours by road and ferry). The nearest airports are in Krabi and Trang, with road transfers available to the ferry piers connecting to Saladan. Regular ferry services operate from Krabi Town, Ao Nang, and neighboring islands throughout the day. If arriving by car, secure parking is available near the mainland piers, though most visitors prefer to travel without vehicles and use local transportation on the island.
Routes
Koh Lanta: Thailand's Laid-Back Island Paradise
Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta charms visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and unspoiled natural beauty. This Thai island strikes the perfect balance between development and preservation, offering pristine beaches alongside comfortable amenities. As a key ferry destination in southern Thailand, Koh Lanta serves as both a tranquil retreat and a gateway to the surrounding archipelago.
When to Experience Koh Lanta at Its Finest
Koh Lanta enjoys a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The prime time to visit falls between November and April, when sunshine dominates and the sea remains calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures. February and March offer the most reliable weather with moderate temperatures averaging 28-32°C. Ferry services run most frequently during these high season months, with reduced schedules during the monsoon season (May to October). Consider visiting in November or April for fewer crowds while still enjoying favorable conditions.
Ferries to Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier)
Island Adventures from Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta's Saladan Pier connects travelers to numerous island gems in the Andaman Sea. The stunning Phi Phi Islands lie just 1-2 hours away by ferry, offering world-class beaches and vibrant marine life. Koh Ngai, reachable in under an hour, provides a secluded escape with pristine snorkeling opportunities. The remote Koh Mook, home to the enchanting Emerald Cave, makes for an unforgettable day trip about 90 minutes away. The Four Islands tour by longtail boat showcases smaller, less-visited spots perfect for those seeking authentic Thai island experiences.
Unmissable Experiences on Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta rewards visitors with diverse experiences beyond its postcard-perfect beaches. The island's southern tip houses Mu Ko Lanta National Park, where jungle trails lead to hidden coves and a historic lighthouse with panoramic views. Old Town on the east coast charms with its wooden stilt houses, artisan shops, and authentic seafood restaurants serving the freshest catch. Don't miss sampling local specialties like massaman curry and seafood tom yum at the night markets in Saladan. For a cultural experience, visit the sea gypsy village of Sang Ka-Ou to glimpse traditional Chao Leh lifestyle that has endured for generations.
Fascinating Tidbits About Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta actually consists of two main islands, Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai, connected by a bridge, though most tourists only visit the larger Yai. The island's name derives from the Javanese word 'lantas' meaning a type of grill fish basket, reflecting its fishing heritage. Before tourism, Koh Lanta was primarily known for its rubber plantations, with many locals still harvesting rubber using traditional methods. The island hosts an annual Laanta Lanta Festival each March, celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of its Muslim, Buddhist, and Sea Gypsy communities through music, food, and traditional performances.
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