Traveling from Hat Yai to the stunning island of Koh Lipe remains one of the most popular southern Thailand routes for domestic and international travelers. While there’s no direct ferry from Hat Yai to Koh Lipe, the journey is straightforward with a combination of land and sea transport, typically involving a van or taxi to Pak Bara Pier, followed by a ferry or speedboat to the island.
This guide outlines the most efficient and reliable travel options available in 2025, covering route details, transportation providers, travel times, prices, booking tips, and more.
Overview: Route and Duration
The Hat Yai–Koh Lipe journey is typically completed in two main stages:
| Stage | Route | Duration | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Hat Yai → Pak Bara Pier | 1.5 – 2 hours | Van or private taxi |
| Stage 2 | Pak Bara Pier → Koh Lipe | 1.5 – 2.5 hours | Ferry or speedboat |
- Total travel time: Approx. 3.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the schedule, operator, and weather conditions.
- No direct ferry from Hat Yai: All routes require a land transfer to Pak Bara Pier in Satun Province before boarding a boat.
Stage 1: Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier (Satun Province)
Distance & Duration
- Distance: 120–125 km
- Travel time: Approx. 1.5 to 2 hours by van or taxi
Departure Points in Hat Yai
Travelers can begin the journey from any of the following pickup points:
- Hat Yai International Airport
- Hat Yai Train Station
- Hat Yai Bus Terminal
- Hotels and guesthouses in central Hat Yai
Transport Options
- Shared Minivan
- Operated by local transport companies and tour operators
- Air-conditioned and comfortable for most travelers
- Cost: Around THB 350–450 per person
- Private Taxi
- Ideal for groups or those with luggage
- More flexible with pickup time and location
- Cost: Approx. THB 1,800–2,500 depending on vehicle size and operator
Stage 2: Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe
Boat Types & Travel Time
- Speedboat: The most common and fastest option
- Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Ferry: Slower, less frequent, and more seasonal
- Travel time: Up to 2.5 hours
- Note: Ferries may not run during low season (May–October)
Boat Operators (Speedboat)
Several reputable companies operate speedboats from Pak Bara Pier:
- Ploysiam Speedboat
- Bundhaya Speed Boat
- Jolly Travel
- Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club
All companies offer combined tickets that include van and speedboat transfers. These are recommended for convenience and time efficiency.
Departure Times
- Speedboats generally depart between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM
- Most vans from Hat Yai depart between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM to align with boat schedules
- Travel services are more frequent during high season (November–April)
Cost
- Speedboat only: Around THB 600–750 per person
- Combined van + speedboat ticket: Starting from THB 800–1,200, depending on the operator and booking platform
Booking Tips
- Advance Booking: Highly recommended during high season (Nov–Apr) and Thai holidays.
- Online platforms: Use reputable services like SmartEnPlus, or the ferry operator’s official websites.
- Group discounts: Available when booking as a group, especially for private taxis or charters.
- Hotel Assistance: Many hotels in Hat Yai or Koh Lipe can help arrange combined transfers.
Travel Tips
- Seasickness: Speedboat rides can be bumpy. Consider taking motion sickness medication if you’re prone to nausea.
- Luggage: Most speedboat operators allow up to 20–25 kg per person. Oversized luggage may incur additional fees.
- Arrival on Koh Lipe: Boats arrive at Pattaya Beach, from where you can take a longtail boat taxi (THB 50–100) to your accommodation.
Seasonal Considerations
| Season | Months | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | Nov – Apr | Frequent, daily service | Calm seas and more departures |
| Low Season | May – Oct | Limited or suspended services | Check schedules in advance due to weather |
Note: During low season, adverse weather can lead to last-minute cancellations. Always reconfirm bookings the day before travel.
Summary
Traveling from Hat Yai to Koh Lipe in 2025 is a well-established route involving:
- A van or taxi ride to Pak Bara Pier (1.5–2 hours)
- A speedboat or ferry to Koh Lipe (1.5–2.5 hours)
- Total time: Approximately 3.5–5.5 hours
- Best option: Book a combined ticket for seamless travel
- Prices: Combined tickets start from THB 800, with standalone van/ferry segments available
This method remains the most convenient and reliable way to reach Koh Lipe, Thailand’s southern island gem.
FAQs: Hat Yai to Koh Lipe Travel in 2025
- Is there a direct ferry from Hat Yai to Koh Lipe?
No. All travelers must transfer to Pak Bara Pier by road before boarding a ferry or speedboat. - How much does it cost to travel from Hat Yai to Koh Lipe?
A combined van and speedboat ticket typically costs THB 800–1,200 per person. - How long does the journey take?
The full trip usually takes between 3.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. - Can I book tickets online?
Yes. Use platforms like SmartEnPlus or the official websites of ferry operators for online reservations. - What’s the best departure time from Hat Yai?
Departures between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM are optimal to catch same-day ferries. - Are there boat services year-round?
Services operate daily during the high season (Nov–Apr) but may be limited or suspended in the low season (May–Oct). - Is it better to book a combined ticket or separate segments?
A combined ticket offers better value and convenience, especially for first-time visitors. - What happens if my flight arrives late in Hat Yai?
If arriving after 11:00 AM, you may miss same-day connections. Consider staying overnight in Hat Yai and departing the next morning. - Are private transfers available?
Yes. Private taxis or minivans can be booked for flexible, comfortable travel—ideal for families or small groups. - Do I need to arrange transport from Koh Lipe pier to my hotel?
Most accommodations on Koh Lipe are reachable via longtail boat taxis, which operate upon arrival (THB 50–100).
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: