About rassada pier

ภาษาไทย

Rassada Pier is a passenger pier located in Rassada Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District Phuket Province. It serves as a central hub for ferry services, speedboats, and ferries connecting the main island of Phuket with various islands in the Andaman Sea , such as Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta , Ao Nang , Koh Lipe, and other islands.

Map of Rassada pier, 2006
Country Thailand
Province Phuket
District Mueang Phuket
Subdistrict Rassada

🤝 Concession and Management

In 2001, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization granted a 30-year concession to Sea Tran Travel Company Limited to manage, operate, and develop the facilities at Rassada Pier. During that period, usage increased significantly to improve operational efficiency, enhance safety standards, and improve services for tourists. The concession will expire in 2031, after which it will be reviewed or extended based on operational results and public policy.

Location view

📜 History

Before 2000: Local Boat Dock

Before developing into a maritime transportation hub, Rassada Pier was merely a small dock used for fishing boats and local cargo vessels. The area was just an ordinary coastline with minimal infrastructure, supporting fishermen and traders between islands.

2001–2002: Initial Development

Local authorities collaborated with ferry operators to officially develop the area into a pier.

2005–2010: Expansion

Construction of concrete piers, passenger buildings, and the start of ferry services to Phi Phi Islands and other islands.

2010–2015: Tourism Integration

Rassada Pier was incorporated into tour packages and travel connections with hotels, with route expansions to Koh Lanta and Railay Beach.

2016–2019: Technology and Management

Introduction of computerized ticketing systems and more systematic transportation management.

2020–2021: COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the suspension of most ferry services, with tourist numbers dramatically declining.

2022–Present: Recovery

After the country reopened, Rassada Pier resumed normal operations with minor repairs and improvements to infrastructure, continuing to serve as Phuket's main transportation hub.

🏛️ Administration and Management

Rassada Pier is located in Rassada Subdistrict, one of eight subdistricts in Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Province, Thailand. Rassada Subdistrict has the status of a subdistrict municipality, which performs local administrative functions within the framework of Phuket Province.

The pier is under the responsibility of the Rassada Subdistrict Administrative Organization, which oversees infrastructure, cleanliness, and community development in the area. Although some pier operations and maintenance are the responsibility of private ferry companies, facilities and connecting roads remain under joint supervision with local authorities.

Supervising Agencies

Due to its economic and tourism importance, the pier is supervised by provincial tourism and transportation agencies, including:

🏗️ Pier Components

🅿️ Parking Area

Rassada Pier has parking systems for both cars and motorcycles, offering daily and overnight parking. Services include both open-air and covered parking with adequate space for users.

🚐 Pick-up/Drop-off Point

The pier has designated areas for tourist vans, taxis, and private cars for convenient passenger pick-up and drop-off.

🚕 Common Transportation Methods

  • Taxi – Easily found in Phuket, suitable for busy periods, but should be booked in advance during high tourist season.
  • Vans – Arranged by hotels or tour companies, often included in ferry packages.
  • Motorcycle Taxis – Suitable for short trips, such as from downtown or nearby hotels.
  • Songthaew (Two-rows) – A cost-effective alternative but takes longer.
  • PPA Smart Bus – An economical option, but this bus operates only during certain hours.

🌊 Popular Destinations

Rassada Pier serves as the main departure point for ferries to: