How to Go from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta

Koh Mook to Koh Lanta
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If you’ve already island-hopped between Koh Lipe and Koh Muk, or indeed any route to get here on Koh Muk, then you’ll have a feel for how easy it can be to island-hop down here.  —despite the occasional splash of chaotic pier action!   And now, after a delightful few days on Koh Muk, aka Koh Mook, we’re heading off to Koh Lanta.  The main point is that you just need to decide what time you want to leave.  Or, of course, what time you want to arrive in Koh Lanta, and if you want a transfer at the other end.

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Famous for its long, sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and lack of large-scale resorts, Koh Lanta is a popular next stop for those hopping between Thailand’s southern islands. It’s well-connected by ferry to nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan, and of course, Koh Muk.

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Get your pick of the best times and prices by prebooking your boat from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta. Your options depend on whether it’s high season or low season.

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Where is Koh Lanta?

Koh Lanta is a laid-back island in the Andaman Sea, located off the coast of Krabi province in southern Thailand. There aren’t many islands down here that aren’t laid back, but Koh Lanta has much more of a “lived-in vibe,” and while you’ll find tourists all over the island, it definitely feels like somewhere you might live, rather than vacation.  Koh Lanta is actually made up of several islands, but most travelers mean Koh Lanta Yai—the larger of the two main islands—when they say “Koh Lanta.”

How to Get from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta

Getting from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta is pretty straightforward, especially during the high season (roughly November to April) when regular boat connections run between the islands. The most popular way is by direct speedboat, but there’s also a slower, more cobbled-together route involving a longtail boat and a minivan or local ferry combo—especially useful in the low season when speedboats don’t run.

Both options are scenic, and neither requires much planning if you’re flexible. That said, booking a day or two ahead during peak months isn’t a bad idea to ensure a spot, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Where Do Boats Depart From on Koh Muk?

Boats from Koh Muk typically depart from the main pier on the island’s eastern side—Hua Laem Pier. It’s a long concrete jetty that stretches far out into the sea, especially at low tide, and serves as the main access point for speedboats and longtail transfers.

If you’ve already arrived on Koh Muk by speedboat, it’s likely the same pier you came in on. Most tickets that you’ll prebook and many accommodations offer transfers to the pier, or you can arrange a tuk-tuk for a quick and easy ride—especially if you’re staying near Farang Beach or on the west coast.

For speedboats, you’ll usually board via a floating pontoon or straight off the jetty, depending on sea levels. Keep your footwear practical—there’s often some light wading involved.

Where Do Boats Arrive on Koh Lanta?

Most boats from Koh Muk dock at Saladan Pier, located on the northern tip of Koh Lanta Yai. It’s the main hub for incoming and outgoing ferries, speedboats, and minivans, and is well-connected to accommodations across the island.

Saladan itself is a small village with restaurants, ATMs, travel agencies, and transport options. From the pier, it’s easy to grab a shared songthaew, private taxi, or pre-arranged transfer to your hotel, whether you’re heading south to Klong Khong or further down to Kantiang Bay.

If you’re staying far from Saladan, it’s well worth pre-booking transport or checking if your hotel includes pickup.  If you’re looking at renting a motorbike, then you’ll find vendors around the pier (but read my guide to Transport in Thailand first).

Koh Muk to Koh Lanta Option 1: Speedboat (High Season)

During high season, the easiest and fastest way to travel from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta is by speedboat. Boats typically depart from Koh Muk around 11:00 – 12:00 and make brief stops at Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan, or Koh Phi Phi before arriving at Saladan Pier on Koh Lanta.

The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on stops and sea conditions. You’ll board the speedboat from a floating pontoon off Koh Muk’s pier—dry feet are never guaranteed!

There are usually quite a few different options for boats.  You can see them here.

These boats can fill up quickly in peak months, especially if you’re traveling around the holidays or the Thai New Year, so it’s smart to book in advance.

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Koh Muk to Koh Lanta Option 2: Longtail + Minivan/Ferry Combo (Low Season Alternative)

If you’re traveling in the low season (May to October), direct speedboats often stop running. But that doesn’t mean you’re stranded. It will just take you a bit longer.  In the offseason, with the longtail boats involved, you’re looking more like 5 hours for your journey.  Check the times and schedule here.

This route involves taking a local longtail boat from Koh Muk to the mainland (usually to Kuan Tung Ku Pier), then a minivan or songthaew to Hua Hin Pier, and finally a car ferry over to Koh Lanta. It’s slower and involves more steps, but still very doable—especially if you’re not in a rush.

Your hotel will be able to arrange this in the low season, or you can book it online at 12go.

Popular Routes in Thailand

Want to know more about different forms of transport in Thailand? Our guide to Thailand transport is here. And here’s how to travel some of the popular routes around Thailand, your options, and how we did it.

Details and Tips on Traveling from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta

Here’s the Q&A that will help you make this trip.

How Long Does it take to go from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta?

  • Speedboat: Around 1–1.5 hours, depending on sea conditions and stops.
  • Longtail + Minivan/Ferry: Closer to  4-5 hours, depending on connections and wait times.

How Much Does It Cost?

Where to Book Your Transport from Koh Mook to Koh Lanta

You can book tickets through:

During the high season, speedboat tickets should ideally be reserved a day or two in advance, especially if you’re on a schedule.

Travel Tips for Exploring Thailand

Final Thoughts on Getting from Koh Muk to Koh Lanta

Whether you’re chasing the sunset or planning the next stretch of your island-hopping adventure, Koh Lanta is a great follow-up to the laidback vibes of Koh Muk. If you’re traveling in high season, the speedboat is a no-brainer—fast, scenic, and easy. In low season, the longtailboat combo route works just fine with a bit of planning.  Either way, the journey is all part of the fun. Just don’t forget the sunscreen and maybe a dry bag for your gear!

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AUTHOR

Sarah Carter
Sarah Carter is an avid reader, writer and traveller. She loves hiking, sailing, skiing and exploring the world through food. She left a successful career in IT security and compliance in both the UK and US to travel the world with husband and partner in adventure, Nigel.

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