Ao Nang, as resorts go, is not something to get extremely excited about. It has the usual cocktail mix of beach, islands off the coastline, bars, restaurants and hotels. It is more a kickoff point to visit to the neighbouring islands. You can travel to Ao Nang by air from Krabi or take a taxi from here. However, you will find that it is far more exciting to travel to Langkawai or to Koh Lipe or to the Pakbara region first, explore it and then get on a ferry to Ao nang.
The Ao Nang Ferry experience is one you will remember. You can board a ferry from Phuket but it is a plain sailing to Ao Nang without any interruptions. Board Ao nang Ferry from Langkawi or from Koh Lipe and you are in for a wonderful experience. In comparison to a speed boat that travels at a hectic speed and can often leave you feeling bruised all over, a ferry is like travelling on an ocean liner but on a smaller boat but with almost the same, sedately royal experience. You have all the time in the world to admire the view, look down into the crystal clear waters of the Andaman sea teeming with marine life and enjoy food and drinks on board. From Langkawi the ferry takes you to Koh Lipe and from there straight to Had Libong, Hadya Pier, Koh Kradan, Koh Ngai, Koh Lanta, to Phi Phi and then to Ao nang in a leisurely, luxurious fashion that is a throwback to the colonial days.
However, before you travel to Ao nang you must know a few things about ferry and booking.
- Travel in low season might get you the benefit of lower fares.
- If your child is 2 years of age or lower, you do not have to buy a ticket for him/her.
- Always book in advance to avoid disappointment. Booking is confirmed only after you make full payment in advance. If you wish to cancel, do so 48 hours before departure time otherwise cancellation charges apply or you forfeit the entire amount. Always keep all documents handy when you book-ferry services may ask for passport and other documents.
- Ferry usually departs at the scheduled time but weather may influence departure times and the ferry may also be cancelled if weather does not permit. You are offered seats on the next ferry.
- Ferry services usually require you to be present 30 minutes before the departure time. Entry closes five minutes or so before the ferry sails and if you arrive late it might well be a case of “no show” and no refund. Of course it is at the discretion of the boat staff and they may let you in.
- Remember, the ferry charges cover only the travel by sea. Everything else is extra. Enjoy drinks and something to eat on board but expect to pay for it. Surface transport also is not covered in the fare, which is usually one way unless you have booked a round ticket.
- Ferry services may indicate a basic fare. Expect to pay taxes and other fees at the prevailing exchange rate.
These little nuggets of information will help you have a hassle-free experience with the Ao nang ferry company.
See More: https://www.andamanferryservice.com/
Martin Wynn
