23/06/2020
Embarking on a tropical escape to the stunning Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa is an experience to be savoured. A crucial part of this journey involves reaching the resort from the mainland, and for many, this begins at Ao Po Grand Marina. This guide will illuminate the most efficient and comfortable ways to make your way from Ao Po Grand Marina to the resort's private pier, ensuring your island adventure starts without a hitch.
The Santhiya Scheduled Transfer: Your Direct Link
Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa offers a dedicated scheduled transfer service that provides a direct and scenic route to paradise. The resort's own Santhiya Launch is your chariot, whisking you away from Ao Po Grand Marina across the turquoise waters directly to the resort’s private pier. This is not just a transfer; it's an introduction to the breathtaking scenery and the invigorating fresh sea air that defines Koh Yao Yai.
Understanding the Santhiya Transfer Schedule and Pricing
The frequency of the Santhiya scheduled transfer service varies depending on the season. It's essential to be aware of these timings to plan your arrival effectively. Reservations are mandatory and must be made at least 48 hours in advance of your check-in date. This advance booking ensures your place on the speedboat and helps the resort manage its transfer operations smoothly.
Seasonal Transfer Operations:
- 18th July – 31st August 2025: 5 rounds per day
- 1st September – 31st October 2025: 3 rounds per day
- 1st November 2025 – 30th April 2026: 5 rounds per day
Transfer Options and Costs (Per Person, Per Way):
Santhiya offers a couple of package options to cater to different travel needs:
| Transfer Type | Adult Price (THB) | Child Price (2-11) (THB) | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Join Shuttle Van + Join Speedboat | 1,250 | 950 | Book now |
| Join Speedboat + Join Shuttle Van | 950 | 625 | Book now |
| Join Speedboat Only | 900 | 475 | Book now |
| Join Speedboat Only (Alternative Rate) | 450 | 300 | Book now |
The "Join Shuttle Van + Join Speedboat" or "Join Speedboat + Join Shuttle Van" packages typically include land transfer from/to Phuket International Airport (HKT) and the speedboat journey. The "Join Speedboat Only" option is ideal if you have made your own arrangements to reach Ao Po Grand Marina.
Important Notes for Scheduled Transfers:
- Advance Reservation: A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required for all bookings.
- Airport Arrival: For those using the shuttle van service from Phuket Airport, domestic flight passengers should arrive at the airport 1 hour prior to shuttle time, and international passengers 2 hours prior.
- Journey Times: The shuttle van from Phuket Airport typically takes around 30 minutes (traffic dependent), and the speedboat journey is approximately 20 minutes (weather dependent). The speedboat journey from Ao Po Grand Marina to the resort is also approximately 30 minutes.
- Check-out Requirements: Guests utilising the scheduled speedboat for departure must check out 90 minutes prior to the scheduled speedboat departure time.
- Flight Departure Timing: For departures, passengers should aim to be at the airport 3 hours before domestic flights and 4 hours before international flights.
- Schedule Changes: The provided schedules are subject to change without prior notice due to weather conditions or technical issues. In such cases, alternative transportation may be arranged.
Exploring Private Transfer Options
For those seeking greater flexibility or travelling in a group, private transfer options offer a more personalised experience. These can be booked for direct airport transfers or for the journey from Ao Po Grand Marina.
Private Speedboat from Phuket International Airport
This premium service includes a private speedboat and private land transfer directly from Phuket International Airport (HKT). It's a convenient way to bypass multiple transfer stages.
| Time of Departure | From / To | Private Speedboat Price (net/boat/way) | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00 - 21:00 | Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa (SYY) / Phuket International Airport (HKT) | 10,000 THB | Book now |
| 21:01 - 24:00 | Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa (SYY) / Phuket International Airport (HKT) | 12,000 THB | Book now |
Important Note: For private speedboat transfers originating from the airport, your flight must have landed at least 1.5 hours before the scheduled speedboat departure.
Private Land Transfer from Phuket International Airport to Ao Po Grand Marina
If you prefer to arrange your own speedboat or have other sea transfer plans from Ao Po Grand Marina, you can opt for a private land transfer directly from Phuket International Airport.
| Time of Departure | From / To | Price (net/car/way) for 1-2 persons | Price (net/car/way) for 3-4 persons | Price (net/car/way) for 5-6 persons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:30 - 17:00 | Phuket Int. Airport (HKT) / Ao Po Grand Marina (APGM) | 900 THB | 1,200 THB | 1,500 THB |
Private Airport Transfer by Luxury Van
For a touch of luxury and comfort, a private transfer by luxury van is available from Phuket International Airport directly to Ao Po Grand Marina Pier.
| Time of Departure | From / To | Luxury Van Price (net/car/way) (Max. 4 persons) |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 - 17:00 | Phuket Int. Airport Transfer (HKT) / Ao Po Grand Marina Pier (APGM) | 1,800 THB |
Understanding Other Transfer Considerations
While Santhiya's direct transfers are highly recommended, it's worth noting the general pricing for taxis and minivans from Ao Po Grand Marina to various points in Phuket, should you need to make onward travel arrangements from the marina itself. These are typically charged per vehicle.
| Destination | Taxi Price (max. 2 persons) | Mini Van Price (max. 8 persons) | Luxury Van (Alphard) Price (max. 4 persons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ao Po Grand Marina | 300 THB | 400 THB | 550 THB |
| 7-11 Ao Po Area | 400 THB | 500 THB | 650 THB |
| Boat Lagoon / Royal Phuket Marina | 700 THB | 900 THB | 1,200 THB |
| Phuket Town / Central Festival | 800 THB | 1,000 THB | 1,300 THB |
| Patong Beach / Jungceylon | 1,000 THB | 1,200 THB | 1,600 THB |
| Kata / Karon Beach | 1,200 THB | 1,400 THB | 1,850 THB |
Note: These prices are indicative and for travel originating from Ao Po Grand Marina. They are not directly related to the transfer to Santhiya but provide context for local transport costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does the Santhiya speedboat take from Ao Po Grand Marina?
The journey from Ao Po Grand Marina to Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa by speedboat typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on weather conditions.
Q2: Do I need to book the Santhiya transfer in advance?
Yes, advance reservations are essential. You are required to book your transfer at least 48 hours prior to your check-in date.
Q3: What happens if the weather is bad?
In the event of adverse weather conditions or technical issues, Santhiya reserves the right to change schedules or substitute the transfer with an alternative mode of transportation to ensure passenger safety.
Q4: Can I arrange a private transfer directly from Phuket Airport?
Yes, Santhiya offers private speedboat transfers that include land transport from Phuket International Airport, as well as private land transfers directly to Ao Po Grand Marina.
Q5: What is the best way to get to Ao Po Grand Marina if I'm not using a private transfer from the airport?
If you're arriving at Phuket International Airport and not using a Santhiya package, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked private car/van to Ao Po Grand Marina. The journey time will vary depending on traffic.
Q6: Are there any transfers available from Krabi?
As per the provided information, Santhiya's speedboat services for all routes from Krabi were temporarily stopped until further notice. It's advisable to check the latest updates directly with the resort.
Conclusion
Reaching Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa from Ao Po Grand Marina is a straightforward process, thanks to the resort's efficient transfer services. Whether you opt for the convenience of the scheduled Santhiya Launch or the exclusivity of a private transfer, a smooth and scenic journey awaits. Remember to book your preferred transfer option in advance to guarantee a seamless start to your idyllic island retreat.
If you want to read more articles similar to Ao Po Grand Marina to Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Transfers, you can visit the Transport category.