Travelers heading from Krabi to Koh Lanta for diving will find several transportation options, each with its own advantages depending on schedule, comfort, and the amount of gear being carried. Because scuba divers often travel with heavy equipment and need reliable timing before joining a course or a dive trip, planning the journey carefully is essential. Koh Lanta is one of Thailand’s premier diving hubs, offering excellent visibility, diverse marine life, and access to world-class sites such as Koh Haa, Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, Koh Bida Nok, and Koh Bida Nai.
This guide provides clear and comprehensive information to help divers choose the best transfer from Krabi, travel safely with gear, and prepare for diving on arrival.
Why Divers Should Plan Ahead
Most dive centers in Koh Lanta recommend arriving at least one day before a scheduled dive or course. This buffer allows time to:
- Rest after travel
- Assemble, check, and adjust equipment
- Communicate with dive shops regarding meeting points or boat departure times
- Avoid delays caused by long ferry queues, especially during high season
Travel after 5:00 PM is generally discouraged, as ferry services wind down and waiting times can increase significantly.
Best Transport Options from Krabi to Koh Lanta
There are four main ways to travel between Krabi and Koh Lanta. The right choice depends on comfort, speed, and how much diving gear is being transported.
1. Private Taxi Transfer – Best for Divers with Gear
Private taxi transfers are widely considered the most practical option for divers. They offer:
- Door-to-door service from Krabi Airport, Krabi Town, Ao Nang, or Klong Muang
- Enough space for diving equipment such as BCDs, fins, wetsuits, and camera housings
- Shorter travel time compared with shared vans
- Flexibility in departure times
Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Cost: THB 1,800–2,800 depending on your pickup point in Krabi
This option minimizes handling of gear and ensures steady travel without multiple stops, making it ideal for those heading directly to their dive center.
2. Shared Minivan + Ferry (Budget Option)
Shared minivans operate throughout the day from Krabi Airport, Krabi Town, and Ao Nang. They include the short car ferry crossing from the mainland to Koh Lanta Noi.
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Many departure times
- Suitable for travelers without bulky gear
Cons for divers:
- Limited luggage space
- Multiple passenger pickups and drop-offs
- Increased risk of delays
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Cost: THB 350–500
This option is possible for divers but not recommended when traveling with large bags or sensitive underwater camera housings.
3. Direct Ferries (High Season Only: November–April)
During the high season, direct ferries operate between Krabi (Ao Nang or Nopparat Thara Pier) and Koh Lanta.
Travel Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
Cost: THB 600–1,000 depending on route and operator
Benefits for divers:
- Scenic and comfortable
- Faster than van + ferry combinations
- No need to worry about vehicle ferry queues
Limitations:
- Only available seasonally
- Can be disrupted by rough seas
- Equipment handling must be done carefully during boarding
4. Speedboats (Limited Availability)
Speedboats run on select routes in high season and can be a quick option.
Travel Time: Around 1 hour
Cost: Higher than ferries
While efficient, speedboats are not ideal for divers due to:
- Limited storage
- Potentially bumpy rides
- Higher costs
Tips for Divers Traveling to Koh Lanta
To ensure a smooth transfer and productive diving schedule:
- Book transportation early in high season, especially private taxis.
- Avoid late afternoon travel due to ferry congestion.
- Notify your dive shop about your arrival time; many centers offer organized pickups.
- Pack gear efficiently, keeping essential items easily accessible.
- Allow time to set up and test equipment the day before diving.
Diving Highlights Around Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta offers access to some of Thailand’s most diverse and rewarding dive sites:
Koh Haa
- Suitable for beginners and experienced divers
- Features the famous “Chimney” vertical swim-through
- Clear turquoise water with vibrant coral gardens
Hin Daeng & Hin Muang
- Advanced sites with deeper profiles
- Known for manta ray sightings and dramatic drop-offs
- Protected marine park area
Koh Bida Nok & Koh Bida Nai
- Rich in marine life including reef sharks, barracudas, and macro species
- Good visibility and calm conditions
Koh Lanta’s waters typically offer gentle currents, making conditions comfortable for both fun diving and specialty training, including Nitrox or underwater photography courses.
FAQs: Krabi to Koh Lanta for Diving
1. How long does the journey from Krabi to Koh Lanta take?
Most travelers arrive within 2–4 hours depending on the chosen transport mode.
2. Which transport option is best for those carrying diving equipment?
A private taxi offers the most space and reliability for divers with bulky gear.
3. Are there direct ferries from Krabi to Koh Lanta all year?
Direct ferries operate only from November to April.
4. What is the average taxi fare from Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta?
Expect fares between THB 1,800–2,800 depending on distance and vehicle type.
5. Is it necessary to arrive in Koh Lanta the day before a dive trip?
Yes. Most dive centers recommend arriving one day in advance to prepare equipment and avoid delays.
6. Are speedboats a good option for divers?
Speedboats are available but less suitable for divers due to limited space for gear and potential rough rides.
7. Can dive centers help transport my equipment?
Most dive shops offer assistance and can coordinate transfers when notified in advance.
8. Are queues at the car ferry common?
Yes, especially after 5:00 PM and during holidays.
9. Is the journey affected by weather?
Ferries and speedboats can experience delays or cancellations during rough sea conditions.
10. What dive sites are suitable for beginners?
Koh Haa and Koh Bida Nai offer calm conditions and excellent visibility, ideal for new divers.
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:
