Koh Lanta to Koh Ngai Speed Boat: A Complete Review

If you are thinking about traveling from Koh Lanta to Koh Ngai, the speed boat is likely something you’ve considered, or are considering. So, is it a good option? Here’s a run through to help you decide if it is for you. After doing this very trip, there’s a few things that are worth mentioning to help make up your mind.

Why Pick a Speed Boat?

Let’s consider why people opt for a speed boat in the first place. It all boils down, really, to speed, as it’s in the name of course. The regular ferries can take a bit longer, particularly when you’re island hopping. You know, they make numerous stops, like your local bus route but, very different when it comes to the gorgeous views! Speed boats, well, they aim for a more quick way to get you to your destination, making it, very popular when you have limited time.

Something to keep in mind is that, depending on the company, you might also get picked up straight from your lodging. Instead of making your way to a main pier, so, that alone is a reason to choose the speed boat. And who doesn’t enjoy the sea breeze whipping through their hair as they zoom across the Andaman Sea, or the very thought of it?

Booking Tickets

OK, you’re ready to book? Great! First, think about doing this online, it could be easier. There are many sites, and also local travel agents that let you secure your spot. You might find better deals online, mostly because of the promotions. I mean, shop around a bit. That said, local agents sometimes have deals that aren’t advertised all over the web, too. One real benefit with booking face to face is that you get instant confirmation. That may allow for greater peace of mind.

It’s important to consider booking a few days ahead of time. Like your favorite restaurant on a Saturday night, the speed boats, so too can fill up, mostly in high season, which is anytime from November to April. When you book, check the fine print regarding luggage allowance, alright? Extra bags may mean extra fees. One real bonus, when booking, try to choose seats, especially if you’re prone to sea sickness, maybe. Opt for the middle of the boat, usually the most stable location. When you’re all set, that is all that matters!

The Speed Boat Trip

You need to give yourself ample time to get to the departure point. So, depending on your ticket, this might be a hotel pickup, or the pier. If it is the pier, plan to get there at least 30 mins before departure. This gives enough time to check in, to have your luggage tagged, so too maybe grab a quick drink or snack.

The boats vary a bit in quality. A handful of will feel newer than others. What they often have in common is this: bench-style seating, life jackets tucked either over your head or under the seat, then of course an open-air back section. When it comes to storing your backpack, most have a covered area toward the front of the boat. Now and then the crew stacks luggage in the back area too, more or less under a tarp.

You know, on the ride itself, try to enjoy the scenery. The islands are a feast for the eyes, seriously! However, let’s talk a bit about the ‘speed’ bit of the speedboat. Now, depending on the sea conditions, that is when the ride can get bouncy. So, if it’s choppy, so that can mean every wave hits you, hard. Have that in mind and you’re braced for what may come!

Arrival on Koh Ngai

It’s very possible the boat might pull right up onto the beach to let people out, instead of docking at a pier, especially on Koh Ngai. Then you simply hop off, wade onto the sand. Yes, your luggage might also get handed to you in the water! What may happen is the staff form a line, and then you just pass bags from person to person. After all, where else do you get service like that?

OK, from there, most lodgings are an easy stroll away, on foot. However, you should expect resorts farther down the beach to send someone with a trolley to assist with luggage. One thing I must mention is that the beaches on Koh Ngai are breathtaking, especially when you’re finally there.

Potential Snags

OK, what are the downsides? A chief concern is, rough seas. No matter how skilled the driver, there’s moments when it feels really alarming. Always keep an eye on the weather forecasts. So, if there are storms looming, very strongly think about rescheduling.

Next, motion sickness. The combination of speed plus choppy waves can do a real number on some folk, actually. Bring motion sickness pills. Or those wristbands, you know, the ones that help with nausea. On the bright side, even with the waves, the trip flies by. That is unlike the ferry. If I were you, I wouldn’t compare them!

Is It Worth It?

So, all in all, the speedboat has good sides plus bad. In a way, you trade a quicker travel time for a somewhat bumpy, also sometimes wet, trip. I think the clincher is that, when the weather’s good, it’s pretty perfect. When there’s big waves, that is when it gets a little hair-raising.

Ultimately, if you’re short on vacation days and you’re eager to stretch out on Koh Ngai’s sands, the speed boat’s the best pick. Now, are you looking to chill and relax and save a bit of money and time doesn’t mean much? So, then go ahead and grab the slow boat. Whichever one you chose, this destination, or that destination… You’re still going to Thailand. What’s not to adore, basically!

Enjoy paradise, right?

#Thailand #KohLanta #KohNgai #IslandLife #TravelTips