About this tour
When Charlie from our team caught the Koh Yao Sun Smile Speed Boat from Railay Beach to Koh Phi Phi, it was a no-fuss 30-minute crossing that got the job done. You'll meet at the floating pier on Railay East — no hotel pickups included, so factor in your own way there — and board a proper speedboat that hammers across the Andaman. It's a transit option for travellers wanting to hop between two of Thailand's busiest beach spots without the slower ferry slog. The boat runs daily year-round, with three daily runs in high season (November–April) and one midday service when it quiets down.
Highlights
- Direct floating-pier pickup at Railay East; no faff with hotel collections
- Thirty-minute run beats the slower ferry alternative between islands
- Operates daily all year; multiple daily departures in peak season
- Basic travel insurance baked into the ticket price
- Speedboat cuts through chop quickly; a proper working boat, not a party vessel
- Cancellations refunded in full if weather or sea conditions turn
What to expect
You'll make your own way to the small floating pier on Railay East — it's a quick walk from the main beach area. The crew will get you sorted and seated, then you're off. The boat's built for speed, not luxury, so expect the throttle to bite and decent spray if the sea's anything but glass. The 30-minute crossing feels snappier than you'd think, especially if you've done the longer ferry route before. The Andaman can be choppy mid-year, so bring a light rain jacket and secure your phone. You'll pull into Koh Phi Phi's main pier, and from there it's on you to reach your hotel.
Charlie reckoned it was efficient and straightforward — the kind of transfer that works because it doesn't try to be more than a transfer. No frills, no tour commentary, just a fast boat between two busy spots. Best suited for travellers who already know both islands or are just keen to swap one for the other without losing half a day.
What travellers say
- Quick 30-minute crossing; fastest option between Railay and Phi Phi
- Daily service all year; three daily runs November to April
- Travel insurance included in ticket price
- Full refund if weather or seas force a cancellation
- Straightforward booking with no hidden hotel-pickup catches
- Speedboat vibration and spray; not for sensitive spines or pregnancy
- No hotel pickup; you arrange your own way to Railay pier
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
If you're island-hopping on a tight schedule, this saves you time versus slower ferries. The boat runs consistently, rain or shine, and you won't be stuck in a massive ferry queue. Insurance is included, which is a decent touch. Small to medium group size keeps it relaxed.
This isn't for everyone — speedboats mean noise, vibration, and spray. If you have spinal issues, are pregnant, or have cardiovascular concerns, skip it. Infants must sit on an adult's lap with no seat allocation. High season (November–April) can get busy; book ahead. Early or mid-morning departures mean you'll need to get to Railay East on your own (no hotel pickups), so budget extra time. Rough seas can delay or cancel the run, though you'll get a full refund. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and something waterproof.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.