Koh Yao Yai Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The journey to Koh Yao Yai is part of the adventure, with regular ferry and speedboat services departing from both Phuket (Bang Rong Pier) and Krabi (Ao Nang and Klong Jilad piers). From Phuket, the crossing takes approximately 30-45 minutes by speedboat or one hour by longtail boat. Travelers coming from Krabi can expect a similar journey time of about 30-40 minutes. Both departure points are easily accessible by taxi or songthaew (local truck taxi) from their respective town centers. If arriving with your own vehicle, secure parking facilities are available at most departure piers, though spaces can fill quickly during peak season.

Nestled between bustling Phuket and Krabi in Thailand's Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Yai offers a refreshing retreat from the typical tourist trail. This 'Long Big Island' stays true to its traditional Thai fishing village roots while providing just enough comfort for travelers seeking authentic island life. As you step off the ferry, you'll immediately notice the languid pace, rubber plantations, and pristine beaches that define this peaceful haven in the Andaman Sea.

The ideal window for visiting Koh Yao Yai falls between November and April during the dry season, when clear skies and calm seas make for perfect island exploration and reliable ferry crossings. December through February offers the most pleasant temperatures, hovering around 24-32°C (75-90°F) with refreshing sea breezes. The monsoon season (May to October) brings intermittent heavy rainfall and occasionally rough seas that might affect ferry schedules, though prices drop significantly during this period. For a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, consider visiting in November or April when you'll enjoy favorable conditions without the peak-season crowds.

Koh Yao Yai serves as an excellent launchpad for exploring the spectacular islands of Phang Nga Bay. From here, you can easily reach Koh Yao Noi, its smaller sister island, via a quick 15-minute ferry hop to experience its slightly more developed amenities and famous rock climbing opportunities. The iconic limestone karsts of James Bond Island lie about an hour away by longtail boat, offering unforgettable photo opportunities. For the ultimate day trip, the Phi Phi Islands can be reached in approximately 1-1.5 hours by speedboat, where crystal waters and vibrant marine life await. Many local tour operators offer island-hopping excursions that showcase the bay's hidden lagoons and secluded beaches not accessible from the larger tourist hubs.

Koh Yao Yai rewards those who embrace its unhurried rhythm with authentic Thai island experiences. Rent a motorbike to circumnavigate the island, stopping at Loh Paret and Loh Jark beaches where powdery white sand meets shallow, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Visit the fishing villages on the eastern coast to witness locals crafting traditional fish traps and mending nets, offering a glimpse into the island's sustainable way of life. Culinary adventurers shouldn't miss the fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, where the catch of the day is transformed into spicy tom yam or simple grilled dishes with local herbs. For a cultural immersion, explore the Muslim communities in the island's center, where rubber tapping and coconut farming continue as they have for generations.

Despite being one of the largest islands in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Yai maintains one of the lowest population densities in the region, with fewer than 8,000 residents spread across its 45 square kilometers. The island's name literally translates to 'Long Big Island' in Thai, aptly describing its elongated shape stretching from north to south. Unlike its neighbors Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Yai has deliberately limited tourism development, with the local Muslim community playing a key role in preserving traditional fishing practices and environmental conservation. Perhaps most surprisingly, the island operates on a unique schedule where many shops close on Fridays rather than Sundays, reflecting the predominant Islamic faith of its inhabitants.