Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Yao Yai Island Transfer

Quick Overview

Journey Time: 40-60 minutes by speedboat
Distance: Approximately 18 km across Phang Nga Bay
Recommendation: Book 48 hours in advance to secure seats
Best For: Travelers seeking an authentic, peaceful Thai island experience

Why Choose Nopparat Thara Pier for Your Koh Yao Yai Journey

Nopparat Thara Pier, located in the Ao Nang area of Krabi, serves as one of the most convenient gateways to the pristine island of Koh Yao Yai. This departure point offers travelers a seamless connection from mainland Krabi to one of Thailand's best-kept secrets in Phang Nga Bay.

Unlike the more touristy islands of Phi Phi or Phuket, Koh Yao Yai maintains its authentic Thai charm. The island's 95% Muslim population has worked diligently to preserve traditional ways of life, keeping commercialization at bay. Visitors can experience genuine fishing villages, rubber plantations, and coconut groves while enjoying world-class beaches with minimal crowds.

Speedboat Schedule: Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Yao Yai

Departure Schedule

Return Schedule

Important Notes:

• Schedules operate daily year-round, except during unsafe weather conditions as determined by the Marine Coast Guard
• Green Planet services stop at Koh Yao Yai before continuing to Koh Yao Noi
• Arrive at the pier 30 minutes before departure time
• Services include hotel pickup from Ao Nang, Krabi City, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Hang, and Klong Muang areas

Ticket Prices and Booking Information

Standard Pricing

• Adult One-Way Ticket:  650  THB
• Child Ticket (3-11 years): 400-450 THB
• Infant (Under 3 years): Free

What's Included

✓ Speedboat transfer
✓ Life jackets
✓ Hotel pickup service (selected areas)
✓ Luggage allowance: 1 small bag + 1 large suitcase per person

How to Book Your Speedboat Transfer in Advance

Online Booking Options

1. Official Operator Websites

• Visit nopparattharapier.com for direct bookings
• Book through phuketferry.com for multiple route options
• Use ferrysamui.com for comprehensive scheduling
• Check getyourguide.com for tour packages

2. Booking Best Practices

• Reserve at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee availability
• Peak season (November-April) requires earlier booking
• Free cancellation available up to 48 hours before departure
• Payment accepted via Visa, MasterCard with no additional charges
• Confirmation vouchers sent via email or WhatsApp

3. On-Site Booking

• Tickets available at the pier, subject to availability
• Travel agencies in Ao Nang offer booking services
• Hotel reception desks can arrange transfers

Important Booking Considerations

• Pregnant passengers cannot travel by speedboat for safety reasons; ferry alternatives required
• Check weather conditions before traveling; services may be suspended during storms
• Contact operators via WhatsApp at +66 82 810 0087 for real-time availability

Getting to Nopparat Thara Pier

Location Details

Address: Moo 3, Muang, Krabi, Thailand
From Ao Nang Beach: 3.1 km (10 minutes drive)
From Krabi Town: Approximately 20 km (25 minutes drive)
From Krabi Airport: Approximately 25 km (30-40 minutes drive)

Transportation Options

1. From Krabi Airport

• Taxi: Fixed rate approximately 800-1,000 THB
• Duration: 30-40 minutes depending on traffic
• Purchase taxi tickets at the airport counter before exit
• No negotiation needed; prices are standardized

2. From Ao Nang Area

• Tuk-Tuk: 100-200 THB per vehicle
• Taxi: 200-300 THB per vehicle
• Walking: Possible from northern Ao Nang (30-40 minutes)
• Most hotels offer transfer services

3. From Krabi Town

• Taxi/Private Car: 300-500 THB
• Songthaew (Local Bus): 60-100 THB per person
• Duration: 25-30 minutes

4. Hotel Pickup Service

• Complimentary pickup included with speedboat ticket purchase
• Air-conditioned minibus picks up from hotel reception
• Typically 1 hour before boat departure
• Available in: Ao Nang, Krabi City, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Hang, Klong Muang

Parking Facilities at Nopparat Thara Pier

Parking Information

Free Parking Available:

• Located approximately 5 minutes walk from the pier
• Available for both cars and motorbikes
• Access via the main road approach to Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park
• No reservation required; first-come, first-served basis

Parking Fee:

• Car parking: Free
• Motorbike parking: 10 THB (at some locations)

Security:

• Parking areas are generally safe
• No official attendants, park at your own discretion
• Remove valuables from vehicles

Alternative:

• Some visitors prefer to arrange hotel parking in Ao Nang and take taxi/tuk-tuk to pier
• Long-term parking (multiple days) is possible but not officially supervised

Pier Facilities and Amenities

What to Expect at Nopparat Thara Pier

Nopparat Thara Pier is a functional departure point with basic facilities. The pier emphasizes efficiency and natural surroundings over extensive commercial amenities.

Available Facilities:

• Small shop selling drinks and snacks (after ticket checkpoint)
• Basic restroom facilities
• Covered waiting areas
• Ticket checking stations
• Luggage handling areas

What's NOT Available:

• No restaurants or cafes
• No ATMs or currency exchange
• No extensive shopping facilities
• Limited seating in waiting areas

Nearby Convenience Stores and Services

Within Walking Distance:

• 7-Eleven convenience store: 5-10 minutes walk towards Ao Nang
• Local food stalls near the beach area
• Small vendors selling drinks and snacks
• Mini-marts in nearby residential areas

Beach Amenities:

• Nopparat Thara Beach is adjacent to the pier
• Beach restaurants and food stalls along the main beach road
• Traditional Thai massage services available
• Restrooms with accessible facilities (though basic condition)

Recommendations Before Departure

✓ Purchase snacks and drinks before arriving at the pier
✓ Use ATMs in Ao Nang or Krabi Town beforehand
✓ Bring small Thai Baht bills for local purchases
✓ Arrive early to explore the beautiful Nopparat Thara Beach
✓ Apply sunscreen and bring sun protection

Accommodation Near Nopparat Thara Pier

Where to Stay Before Your Journey

Luxury Options:

• Centara Life Phu Pano Resort Krabi - Resort with international dining and beach shuttle
• Maneetel Krabi Beachfront - Chic rooms with gym and sea-view pool
• Navinda Krabi Resort - Features rooftop pool and trendy restaurant

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort - Family-friendly with waterslides and kids' club
• Blue Tara Hotel Krabi Ao Nang - Pools and pool bar, relaxed atmosphere
• Pagi Pagi Villas - 6-minute walk from beach, peaceful location

Budget-Friendly:

• Blue Ba You Resort - New property with outdoor pool, 1.2 miles from pier
• Local guesthouses in Ao Nang area (500-1,000 THB per night)

Accommodation on Koh Yao Yai

Luxury Resorts:

• Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa - Traditional wooden architecture, private beach, infinity pools
• Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas - Private speedboat pier, omakase dining, premium spa

Mid-Range:

• Elixir Resort - Southern island location, friendly staff, excellent Thai food
• Yao Yai Beach Resort - Various pier access points, local charm

Important Notes:

• Most resorts offer free pier pickup with advance notice (typically 800 THB for private transfer)
• Resorts can arrange motorbike rentals (250-300 THB per day)
• Limited public transportation on island; arrange transfers through accommodation

What to Expect on Koh Yao Yai

Island Overview

Koh Yao Yai spans approximately 30 kilometers in length, situated in the heart of Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi. Despite being only a 25-minute speedboat ride from Phuket, the island maintains an authentic, uncommercialised atmosphere.

Main Arrival Piers on Koh Yao Yai

1. Klong Hia Pier (Northern island)

• Main arrival point from Nopparat Thara
• Services from Krabi and Phuket
• 15-45 minute taxi ride to resorts depending on location

2. Chong Lard Pier (Central-western coast)

• Alternative arrival point
• Convenient for southern resorts
• Taxi and motorbike services available

3. Loh Jark Pier (Southwestern coast)

• Primarily for car ferries from Phuket
• Less frequent speedboat services

Island Transportation

Motorbike Rental:

• Available at piers and through resorts
• Cost: 250-500 THB per day
• Main roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate
• International or Thai driving license recommended

Taxi Services:

• Must be arranged through resorts or tour offices
• No roving taxis or tuk-tuks available
• Cost varies by distance; negotiate in advance

Bicycle Rental:

• Available at some resorts
• Ideal for exploring nearby areas
• Free at certain accommodations

Local Transport Tip:

• Locals are incredibly helpful; hitchhiking is common and safe
• Pick-up trucks often stop to offer lifts to pedestrians

Island Activities

Beaches:

• Loh Pared Bay Beach - White sand, crystal-clear water
• Son Bay Beach - Isolated, western side, minimal rocks
• Private resort beaches - Often pristine and exclusive

Water Activities:

• Snorkeling tours to nearby islands
• Kayaking through mangrove forests
• Long-tail boat trips to Koh Hong, Koh Yao Noi
• Day trips to Phang Nga Bay

Land Activities:

• ATV tours through jungles and beaches
• Rubber plantation visits
• Fishing village exploration
• Traditional Thai cooking classes

Cultural Experiences:

• Visit local Muslim communities
• Observe traditional Thai-Muslim lifestyle
• Explore roadside eateries serving authentic local cuisine
• Evening sunset watching from beaches

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Best Time to Visit

High Season (November - April):

• Guaranteed sunshine and calm seas
• Best weather for water activities
• Higher prices and more tourists
• Book accommodations and transfers well in advance

Shoulder Season (May & October):

• Budget-friendly pricing
• Fewer crowds
• Occasional rain but still enjoyable
• Better deals on accommodation

Monsoon Season (June - September):

• Rough seas; some services may be suspended
• Lowest prices
• Quieter island experience
• Not recommended for first-time visitors

What to Pack

Essential Items:

• Sun protection (SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses)
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Modest clothing (respect local Muslim culture)
• Insect repellent
• Basic first-aid supplies
• Cash in small denominations

For Water Activities:

• Waterproof phone case
• Snorkeling gear (can also rent on island)
• Quick-dry towel
• Underwater camera

Important Note: Koh Yao Yai has limited ATMs; withdraw sufficient cash in Krabi or at your resort

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly when outside resort areas
• Remove shoes when entering local homes or restaurants
• Be respectful in Muslim villages
• Alcohol is primarily available only within resorts
• Support local businesses and communities

Safety Considerations

• Check weather forecasts before travel
• Marine Coast Guard may suspend services during unsafe conditions
• Life jackets provided on all speedboats
• Travel insurance recommended
• Keep valuables secured during boat transfers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How far in advance should I book my speedboat?
A: We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance, especially during peak season (November-April). Last-minute bookings may be available at the pier but are not guaranteed.

Q: What happens if weather conditions are unsafe?
A: The Marine Coast Guard monitors weather conditions daily. If travel is deemed unsafe, services will be suspended. Operators typically offer rebooking options or ferry alternatives. Refunds or rescheduling policies vary by operator.

Q: Can I bring my motorbike on the speedboat?
A: No, speedboats do not accommodate motorbikes. However, parking is available at Nopparat Thara Pier. For vehicle transport to Koh Yao Yai, you must use the car ferry from Phuket's Chianwanich or Laem Hin piers.

Q: Are there direct services from Krabi Airport to Koh Yao Yai?
A: No direct services operate from Krabi Airport. You must first transfer to Nopparat Thara Pier (30-40 minutes by taxi), then take the speedboat. Total journey time: approximately 2-2.5 hours.

Q: Is Nopparat Thara Pier the same as Ao Nang?
A: The pier is located near Ao Nang, approximately 3.1 km from Ao Nang Beach. It's at the northern end of Nopparat Thara Beach, within easy reach of Ao Nang's hotels and restaurants.

Q: Can pregnant women travel on the speedboat?
A: For safety reasons, speedboat operators do not accept pregnant passengers. Alternative ferry services are available but may have longer journey times.

Q: What's the luggage allowance?
A: Standard allowance is one small bag plus one large suitcase per person. Oversized or excessive luggage may incur additional charges.

Q: Are there ATMs on Koh Yao Yai?
A: ATMs are available at government offices in Chong Lad and Prunai villages, and at select locations near piers. However, ATM availability is limited. Withdraw sufficient cash in Krabi or Ao Nang before departure.

Q: Do I need to arrange transportation from the pier on Koh Yao Yai?
A: If you've booked accommodation, most resorts offer complimentary pier pickup with advance notice. Otherwise, taxis and motorbike taxis are available at arrival piers. Negotiate rates before departure.

Q: What if I miss my scheduled departure?
A: Contact your operator immediately. Depending on availability, you may be rebooked on a later service. Note that limited services operate daily, so missing your boat could result in significant delays.

Q: Is there WiFi on Koh Yao Yai?
A: Most resorts and guesthouses offer free WiFi. Mobile phone service is available throughout the island. However, internet speeds may be slower than in urban areas.

Q: Can I do a day trip to Koh Yao Yai from Krabi?
A: Yes, but given limited service times, you'll have only a few hours on the island. It's more rewarding to stay at least one night to fully experience the island's tranquility and natural beauty.

Q: What currency is accepted on Koh Yao Yai?
A: Thai Baht only. Some high-end resorts may accept credit cards, but cash is essential for local restaurants, transportation, and activities.

Traveler Reviews and Testimonials

What Visitors Say About the Nopparat Thara to Koh Yao Yai Journey

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Perfect Escape from Tourist Crowds"
"After a month exploring Thailand during peak season, Koh Yao Yai was exactly what we needed. The speedboat from Nopparat Thara was quick and comfortable. The island felt wonderfully untouched compared to Phuket or Phi Phi. Peaceful beaches, friendly locals, and authentic Thai life. Highly recommend!" - Emily, UK Travel Blogger

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Honeymoon Paradise"
"We spent 4 days on Koh Yao Yai and couldn't have asked for a better experience. The transfer from Nopparat Thara was seamless—our hotel arranged everything. Walking along deserted beaches, watching sunsets, and exploring rubber plantations made this trip unforgettable. The island maintains its traditional charm while offering luxury resort options." - Couple from Australia

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ "Authentic and Serene"
"Koh Yao Yai is larger than Koh Yao Noi and felt even more peaceful. The speedboat journey was smooth, and staff were professional. The island has minimal nightlife—perfect if you want true relaxation. We hired a motorbike and discovered beautiful hidden beaches and local eateries. Just be prepared: it's quiet here, which is exactly the point!" - Traveler from USA

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Well-Organized Transfer"
"Hotel pickup was punctual, and the speedboat departure from Nopparat Thara was well-coordinated. The 40-minute journey offered stunning views across Phang Nga Bay. Our resort arranged pier pickup on Koh Yao Yai—everything worked like clockwork. Professional service throughout." - Singapore Family

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ "Hidden Gem Worth Visiting"
"If you're looking to get away from the 'doof doof' of Bangla Road and big crowds, visit Koh Yao Yai. This quiet island has beautifully hospitable locals. The beaches might have some rocks, but there are isolated stretches like Son Bay Beach that are absolutely gorgeous. Bring cash, as ATMs are limited!" - Adventurer from Australia

Common Themes from Reviews

✓ Peaceful atmosphere - Perfect for those seeking tranquility
✓ Authentic Thai culture - Traditional fishing villages and local life
✓ Efficient transfers - Well-organized speedboat services
✓ Beautiful beaches - Less crowded than major tourist islands
✓ Limited nightlife - Not suitable for party-seekers
✓ Friendly locals - Warm hospitality and helpful residents

Final Recommendations

Who Should Visit Koh Yao Yai

Ideal For:

• Couples seeking romantic, peaceful getaways
• Families wanting safe, quiet beach holidays
• Travelers desiring authentic Thai cultural experiences
• Nature enthusiasts and beach lovers
• Anyone escaping overcrowded tourist destinations

Not Ideal For:

• Party-seekers looking for vibrant nightlife
• Travelers wanting extensive shopping and dining options
• Those requiring constant urban amenities
• Visitors with very limited time (minimum 2-3 days recommended)

Making the Most of Your Journey

1. Book Early: Secure speedboat tickets at least 48 hours ahead
2. Plan Transportation: Arrange hotel pickup or parking in advance
3. Bring Cash: Limited ATMs on the island
4. Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly outside resort areas
5. Embrace Island Time: Slow down and enjoy the peaceful pace
6. Explore Beyond Your Resort: Rent a motorbike and discover hidden gems
7. Try Local Food: Visit roadside eateries for authentic Thai-Muslim cuisine

Beyond Koh Yao Yai

Nearby Destinations:

• Koh Yao Noi: Sister island, slightly more developed, 10-15 minutes by long-tail boat
• Hong Island: Popular day trip destination, stunning lagoons (20-30 minutes)
• Phang Nga Bay: Famous limestone karsts and James Bond Island tours
• Railay Beach: Rock-climbing haven accessible via Nopparat Thara

Contact Information

Speedboat Operators

Green Planet Speedboat:

• WhatsApp: +66 82 810 0087
• Email: Available through phuketferry.com
• Services: Nopparat Thara - Koh Yao Yai - Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Sun Smile:

• Multiple departure times daily
• Services: Direct routes to both Koh Yao islands

Nopparat Thara Pier Office:

• Email: info@nopparattharapier.com
• Website: nopparattharapier.com
• Open 7 days a week

Emergency Contacts

• Koh Yao Yai Police Station: (076) 597 123
• Hospital in Prunai Village (on main road)
• Medical Clinic near Chong Lad Pier
• Tourist Police: 1155 (nationwide Thailand)

Conclusion

Traveling from Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Yao Yai offers more than just a speedboat journey—it's a gateway to discovering one of Thailand's most authentic and peaceful islands. With proper planning, advance booking, and an open mind to embrace island life, your trip to Koh Yao Yai will be a highlight of your Thailand adventure.

The island's commitment to preserving traditional Thai culture while welcoming respectful tourism makes it a unique destination in an increasingly commercialized region. Whether you're seeking pristine beaches, cultural immersion, or simply a break from the crowds, Koh Yao Yai delivers an unforgettable experience.

Ready to Book Your Journey? Contact operators 48 hours in advance, pack your bags, and prepare for the peaceful paradise that awaits you on Koh Yao Yai.

Last Updated: October 2025
Information subject to change. Always confirm schedules and prices with operators before travel.