Traveling from Koh Lipe, Thailand to Langkawi, Malaysia is a scenic and efficient island-hopping journey. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of ferry schedules, ticket prices, immigration procedures, and essential travel tips to ensure a smooth cross-border experience.
Ferry Schedule (Koh Lipe to Langkawi)
- Operating Season: Ferries run daily during the high season from October to May. Services are usually suspended during the low season (June to September) due to rough seas.
- Departure Point: Ferries leave from Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe.
- Typical Departure Times:
- 10:30 AM (Thai time)
- 4:00 PM (Thai time)
- Duration: Approx. 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
- Arrival Points in Langkawi:
- Telaga Harbour Marina
- Kuah Jetty
These two ports are about 27 km apart, so confirm your arrival location to arrange onward transportation accordingly.
Ticket Prices and Booking
- One-Way Ticket (Koh Lipe → Langkawi):
- Adults: THB 1,300
- Children: THB 1,100
- One-Way Ticket (Langkawi → Koh Lipe):
- Adults: Approx. MYR 160 (THB 1,500 equivalent)
- Children: Approx. MYR 140 (THB 1,300 equivalent)
Return tickets are generally double the one-way fare.
Booking Tips
- Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak season (December to February).
- Tickets are available via:
- Online platforms: SmartEnPlus
- Local tour agencies and hotels on Koh Lipe or Langkawi
- At ferry counters (subject to availability)
- Some ferry operators include long-tail boat transfer fees from the beach to the speedboat.
- Major Operators:
- Bundhaya Speed Boat
- Satun Pakbara Speedboat Club
- Telaga Terminal Ferry
Immigration and Border Crossing Procedures
At Koh Lipe (Thailand)
- Immigration procedures are conducted on the beach at Pattaya Beach.
- Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure for check-in, immigration, and bag drop.
- Passengers are transferred from the beach to the ferry via long-tail boats.
At Langkawi (Malaysia)
- Immigration clearance is required upon arrival.
- Ferry staff collect passports before boarding and return them after immigration processing in Langkawi.
Entry Requirements
- Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months validity required.
- Visa: Ensure you have the appropriate visa or entry permissions for Malaysia (most nationalities receive visa-free entry for short stays).
- Customs:
- No fruits, vegetables, or animal products allowed across borders.
- Vaping is illegal in Thailand – do not carry vape devices.
- Baggage Allowance: Typically 20 kg per person. Excess baggage may incur fees.
Tip: Keep necessary documents (passport, visa if needed, tickets) easily accessible.
Seasonal Considerations and Weather
- Ferries do not operate from June to September due to monsoon conditions.
- If traveling during the low season, consider alternative routes via Pak Bara Pier on the Thai mainland and then overland to Malaysia.
- Check weather forecasts and operator updates 1-2 days before travel, especially during the shoulder months (May and October).
Summary Checklist
- ✅ Book ferry tickets early
- ✅ Double-check departure/arrival piers
- ✅ Arrive 2 hours early for check-in and immigration
- ✅ Confirm baggage limits and ferry transfer details
- ✅ Carry passport with 6+ months validity
- ✅ Avoid carrying banned items (vape, fresh food)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How long is the ferry from Koh Lipe to Langkawi?
The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. - What is the ferry fare from Koh Lipe to Langkawi?
One-way tickets cost about THB 1,300 for adults and THB 1,100 for children. - When do ferries operate between Koh Lipe and Langkawi?
Daily ferries run from October to May during the high season. - Is there a ferry in the low season (June to September)?
No. You must travel via Pak Bara Pier and continue overland to Langkawi. - Which ferry companies operate this route?
Major operators include Bundhaya Speed Boat, Satun Pakbara Speedboat, and Telaga Terminal Ferry. - Can I bring luggage on the ferry?
Yes. Most ferries allow 20 kg per passenger, with extra fees for excess baggage. - Where do ferries from Koh Lipe arrive in Langkawi?
At either Telaga Harbour Marina or Kuah Jetty. - Do I need a visa to enter Malaysia?
Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry, but check current requirements before travel. - What should I avoid carrying on the ferry?
Do not carry fruits, fresh food, animal products, or vape devices. - Can I buy tickets at the ferry terminal on the same day?
Possible, but not recommended. Ferries often sell out, especially during peak season.
This guide equips travelers with all essential details for a smooth and efficient journey from Koh Lipe to Langkawi. For up-to-date ferry times and bookings, consult official ferry operator websites or trusted travel platforms before departure.
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: