New marine route to slash travel time between Phuket and Krabi

To revolutionise marine transport, the Thai Marine Department has been urged to speed up the construction of four piers that will form a new Andaman marine ring route, dramatically cutting travel time between Phuket and Krabi by a staggering 90 minutes.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri said this push aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s vision to improve infrastructure and ease transportation for both goods and passengers.

“This project is vital to boosting our economy and tourism.”

Manaporn emphasised that the piers, with a budget of 740 million baht, will link Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi, forming the Andaman triangle.

Currently, the 145-kilometre road journey between Krabi and Phuket airports can take three and a half hours. With the new marine route, the 97-kilometre sea journey will take just two hours. Manaporn highlighted that this route could be a game-changer for tourism in Phang Nga, a second-tier province expected to benefit from the increased traffic.

Kritphet Chaichuay, Director-General of the Marine Department, confirmed that work would start with the upgrade of two existing piers: Manoh Pier on Koh Yao Noi and Chong Lard Pier on Koh Yao Yai. The department has already secured 360 million baht for these upgrades, with construction slated to begin this year and finish by 2026.

“These piers are in dire need of renovation.”

The upgrades will include a new service building, a passenger lounge, larger car parks, and docking facilities. Plans are also in motion to secure an additional 380 million baht for two more piers in Phuket and Krabi, set to be operational by 2027, reported The Nation.

In related news, Pattaya is gearing up for a nautical spectacle that promises to put it on the world map as a leading maritime destination. The Pattaya Water Sports Club unveiled the ambitious plans for the Pattaya Boat Show 2025 to Mayor Poramet Ngampichet at City Hall on August 20, setting the stage for a truly world-class event.