I was traveling to Hat Yai from Langkawi, and I had a couple of options to get there. Option 1: go back to the mainland and cross the border via Padang Besar. Option 2: take the ferry from Langkawi to Satun
I chose the ferry option, it was faster, enjoyable, and the scenic is breath-taking.
Why Take the Langkawi to Satun Ferry?
The journey offers a slower, more scenic alternative to flying, letting you enjoy the sights, sea breeze, and the feeling of crossing the border the old-fashioned way.
The ferry connects Kuah Jetty in Langkawi, Malaysia directly to Tammalang Pier in Satun, Thailand, making it one of the easiest international sea routes in Southeast Asia. It’s a popular choice among backpackers, digital nomads, and travelers who prefer flexibility and a more authentic travel experience.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the Andaman Sea, passing by small islands and fishing boats as you make your way toward Thailand.
Taking the ferry is also ideal if you’re planning to explore southern Thailand from Satun, you can easily continue to Hat Yai, Koh Lipe, or Tarutao National Park. It’s convenient, budget-friendly, and gives you a taste of two cultures in one journey.
Ferry Terminals: Departure & Arrival
The Langkawi to Satun ferry operates between two main terminals: Kuah Jetty in Malaysia and Tammalang Pier in Thailand. Both are small but efficient, handling daily cross-border travelers with immigration facilities on-site.
- Departure: Kuah Jetty, Langkawi, Malaysia
Located in the main town of Kuah, this jetty is easy to reach from anywhere on the island. You’ll find a ticket counter, small shops, money changers, and a café nearby. Check in at the ferry counter, go through Malaysian immigration, and wait in the departure hall until boarding time. - Arrival: Tammalang Pier, Satun Province, Thailand
The pier is about 8 km from Satun town. Once you arrived, you’ll go through Thai immigration, which is usually quick and straightforward. After that, you can take a tuk-tuk (30 THB) or songthaew to the bus station or your hotel in Satun.
Tip: Arrive 30–60 minutes early to clear immigration. Schedules are usually on time, but delays can happen due to border processing.
Ferry Schedule, Duration & Cost
Here’s what you need to know about taking the ferry from Langkawi (Malaysia) to Satun (Thailand):
- Duration: The fastest high-speed boats complete the trip in around 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Frequency: Typically 2 departures per day from Kuah Jetty to Tammalang Pier (e.g., around 09:30 and 17:15) though this can vary by season.
- Ticket Price: One-way fares currently start from around RM 60 (~MYR) according to online listings.
Pro Tip: Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
What to Expect on the Ferry
The Langkawi to Satun ferry ride is generally smooth, comfortable, and easy to navigate, perfect even for first-time travelers crossing by sea. The ferries are medium-sized, air-conditioned boats that cater mostly to tourists and locals traveling between Malaysia and Thailand.
Here’s what you can expect during the journey:
- Comfortable seating: Most ferries have cushioned seats in an enclosed cabin with air conditioning. You can move around freely, and some ferries even have open decks for fresh air and sea views.
- Basic facilities: Expect clean seating areas, life jackets under your seat, and restrooms onboard.
- Immigration checks: Before boarding, you’ll go through Malaysian exit immigration at Kuah Jetty. Upon arrival at Tammalang Pier, you’ll pass through Thai entry immigration, usually a simple process that takes just a few minutes.
- Luggage handling: Light and medium luggage can be brought onboard. Larger suitcases are usually placed in a designated storage area before departure.
- Scenic views: The ferry glides across the Andaman Sea, offering beautiful views of turquoise water, small islands, and fishing boats. On clear days, the horizon is absolutely stunning, so keep your camera ready!
Pro Tip: Sit on the left side of the ferry when departing Langkawi for the best views of the island and the open sea.
Tips for Travelers
Here are a few tips to make your crossing smooth and hassle-free:
- Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid and check Thailand’s visa requirements.
- Time Zone: Malaysia is 1 hour ahead of Thailand.
- Seasonality: Ferry services may be limited during monsoon season (May–October).
- Onward Travel: Satun has buses, vans, and taxis for connections to Hat Yai or southern islands.
- Print Your Ticket: Always print your ferry ticket reservation or have a digital copy ready for check-in.
On Arrival in Satun
Satun is a peaceful and charming province in southern Thailand, a perfect stopover before heading to busier destinations like Hat Yai or the southern islands. After the ferry docks at Tammalang Pier and you clear Thai immigration.
From the pier, I took a tuk-tuk for 30 THB to Satun’s main bus station, which takes about 5–10 minutes. The bus station is small but organized, with clear signage for buses and vans heading to Hat Yai, Koh Lipe, Tarutao National Park, or other nearby destinations.
At the bus station, you can choose:
- Bus: The most economical option, with several departures daily to Hat Yai. Tickets can be purchased at the counter or from travel agents nearby.
- Van/Minibus: Slightly faster than the bus, these depart frequently and are ideal if you’re on a tighter schedule.
- Private Transfer: For maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage, you can arrange a private car or taxi to Hat Yai or your next destination.
Pros and Cons of the Langkawi to Satun Ferry
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Scenic, relaxing journey across the Andaman Sea | Ferry schedules can change |
| Short travel time compared to some land crossings | Immigration may take extra time |
| Direct access to southern Thailand and nearby islands | Off-peak months may have limited service |
Final Thoughts
The Langkawi to Satun ferry is a convenient and scenic way to travel from Malaysia into southern Thailand. The ride across the Andaman Sea offers beautiful views and a relaxing start to your journey.
Satun is a quiet stopover before heading to Hat Yai, Koh Lipe, or Tarutao National Park, with easy options for onward travel by bus, van, or private transfer. To make your trip smooth, book your ferry tickets in advance and print your reservation, bring your passport, and keep some Thai baht for tuk-tuks or snacks.
Whether you’re heading to Hat Yai or exploring southern Thailand, the Langkawi to Satun ferry is a simple, enjoyable, and memorable way to cross the border.
