Ferries and Speedboats in Thailand: How to Book Tickets in Advance?
The Difference Between a Ferry and a Speedboat
A ferry is bigger, slower, and cheaper — good for long distances or when you have a car. A speedboat is smaller, significantly faster, more expensive, and suits medium distances between islands.
How to Book in Advance
Sites like 12Go Asia allow advance booking of ferry/boat tickets from most main ports, including combining with a van from the hotel. Especially recommended in peak season when spots fill up.
What to Expect on the Ride
Speedboats can be bumpy in rough seas — those prone to seasickness should consider medication in advance. Bigger ferries are more stable but significantly slower.
Safety
Make sure there are enough life jackets available and that the crew goes through basic safety before departure — most well-known operators meet standards, but worth paying attention, especially on smaller private boats.
Seasonality
In rainy season (varies by region, see our seasons comparison guide), some ferry lines reduce frequency or cancel on stormy days — worth checking date flexibility if planning to travel during this period.
One Last Tip
Arrive at the port at least 30-45 minutes before departure — check-in and boarding processes can take time, especially in peak season with many passengers.
Luggage on the Boat
Small speedboats usually don't offer much room for large luggage — huge suitcases can be cumbersome. A backpack or medium suitcase is more convenient for frequent island transfers.
Speedboat Safety
Recommended to choose well-known operators (not necessarily the cheapest) and make sure life jackets are available — boat accidents are rare but happen, mainly in rough seas. If the sea looks especially rough that day, worth considering postponing the crossing, not just sticking to the original schedule.
Slow Ferries as an Alternative
Alongside speedboats, there are also slower, cheaper ferries (usually for cars and cargo, but also passengers) — take longer but are more stable in rough seas and significantly cheaper, a good option for those not in a rush.
Booking Ahead vs. Buying On-Site
In peak season, recommended to book ferry/boat tickets in advance through the hotel or a local site — guarantees a spot and sometimes a better price too. In low season, you can usually buy on-site without a problem.
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