How to get to Phuket: flights, transfers, sea routes

Phuket is one of Thailand’s most popular resorts, attracting tourists from all over the world every year. There are various ways to get to the island: direct or connecting flights, intercity buses, sea transport, and cruise tours. In this article, we will look at the most convenient ways to get to Phuket.

Flights to Phuket from Russia and other countries

Many travellers are interested in how to get to Phuket independently and as quickly as possible. The most convenient way is to fly. Direct flights from Russia, as well as international routes with transfers, allow you to choose the option that suits your budget and travel time.

Examples of flights:

• From Moscow: direct flight from Aeroflot, travel time ~9–10 hours.
• From St. Petersburg: charter flights from AZUR air and Red Wings.
• From other regions of Russia: charter flights during the high season, also from AZUR air and other operators.
• International connecting routes:
  • Qatar Airways — via Doha,
  • Emirates — via Dubai,
  • Etihad — via Abu Dhabi,
  • Thai AirAsia, Air Arabia — with transfers in Asia and the Middle East.

Prices vary depending on the season, sales and airline. The journey time with a transfer is approximately 13–15 hours.

Direct flights vs transfers: what to choose

• Direct flight. The obvious answer to the question of how to fly to Phuket quickly and comfortably. It saves time and guarantees that you will arrive on schedule.
• Connecting flights. These are often cheaper than direct flights, but require you to take into account the nuances of transit. Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for your connection so that you can catch your next flight even if there is a slight delay. Find out in advance whether you need a transit visa in the country of transfer, and when checking in, ask for your luggage to be checked through to Phuket – this will save you from having to leave the transit area and go through security again.
• Charter flights from tour operators. Another way to get to Phuket. Their advantage is a direct flight from the regions, but the schedule is less reliable: flight delays are possible, so when travelling by charter, it is worth allowing extra time.

Travel by sea: cruises to Phuket

You can also get to Phuket by sea – on a cruise ship. This option should not be considered as a way to get to Phuket, but rather as entertainment: the huge ship actually replaces a hotel, with everything from swimming pools to restaurants on board. A cruise does not mean just travelling by sea: the ship makes stops at ports along the route, where passengers go on excursions. The duration of the cruise can be chosen as desired – there are programmes ranging from 3 days to several weeks. It is better to plan your trip for the dry season (November–March) for good weather without storms.

Cruises calling at Phuket depart from various countries:

• Indonesia (Bali)
• UAE (Dubai)
• Singapore
• India (Mumbai port)

For example, a 5-day cruise from Singapore to Malaysia (Penang) – Phuket – Singapore will cost from ~80,000 ₽ (32,000 ฿) per person. You can select and pay for such a tour through a specialised operator or online, travelling, in essence, in a ‘floating resort’ format.

How to get to Phuket from popular resorts in Thailand:

If you are already in Thailand and are planning a trip to the island, here are some convenient routes with approximate prices and travel times:

From Samui

• Airplane: direct flight from Bangkok Airways, approximately 1 hour.
• Ferry + bus: the journey takes about 8 hours.

From Pattaya

• By plane: there are no direct flights, but you can fly from the nearest airport, U-Tapao. The flight takes approximately 1.5 hours.
• By bus: an overnight journey with a change in Bangkok takes 16-18 hours.

From Krabi

• Bus or car: the journey takes about 3 hours.
• Ferry: a fast and scenic way to cross Phang Nga Bay. The journey takes 2 hours.

From Bangkok

• Plane: domestic flights to Phuket take about 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Bus: a more budget-friendly option, but the journey takes all night, which is about 12-13 hours.

Many travellers choose to fly, as the price difference is small, and in terms of comfort and speed, the plane is the clear winner.

FAQ

How long is a direct flight to Phuket from Moscow?
A direct flight takes about 9–10 hours. It is operated, for example, by Aeroflot from Sheremetyevo.

Which is more cost-effective — a connecting flight or a direct flight?
Connecting flights are usually cheaper, especially with low-cost airlines. However, a direct flight saves time and reduces the stress of connecting flights.

Is it possible to get to Phuket by sea, on a cruise?
Yes. Phuket is a popular port on cruise routes in Southeast Asia. Cruise ships call at the island from India, Singapore, the UAE and Indonesia. As part of the cruise, you can go ashore, see the sights and return to the ship.