Phuket Transpotation

There are plenty of inexpensive modes of transportation in Phuket. Walking is an option, but pedestrians must always be aware of reckless drivers, as road rules are not always obeyed.

Motorbikes

Motorbikes are the most popular mode of Phuket transportation - the island's warm and comfortable climate and winding roads with picturesque scenery on either side is best experienced while cruising on a motorbike. However, motorbikes are also the cause of most road accidents in Phuket. Renting a small motorcycle, such as a Honda Dream, is affordable and convenient.
Motorcycle drivers in green or maroon vests provide short distance transportation services and the rides are inexpensive and fast, but visitors must ask for the fare before starting on the journey as it is common to be charged extra if you are not well informed.
Insurance is not available on rental motorbikes and helmets are used more for decorative purposes than security measures, although there is a fine for not wearing one.


Bus

Songthaew, meaning 'two rows', is Phuket's public bus service that runs on a loop route between a beach location and back to the songthaew stop on Ranong Road in Phuket Town. These colourful buses consist of two wooden benches that run down either side of the bus. Rides are cheap and safer than taxis, but buses do not circle the island providing transportation from beach to beach.
If you are travelling with a group, one of the best Phuket transportation options is to rent a songthaew with a driver. The rates are reasonable and you can enjoy a day of touring the island or going on a beach safari with minimum hassle. Ask the hotel reception to arrange a bus for you as most songthaew company employees do not speak English.


Taxi and Tuk-Tuks

Another popular mode of Phuket transportation is the infamous tuk-tuk - the three-wheeled vehicle recently replaced by small red vans with open sides. Tuk-tuk rides are convenient, although if you do not know the art of negotiating, it is likely that you will be charged extra, as the taxis are not metred. The fee depends on the distance you are travelling and not on the number of passengers and travellers are adviced not to rely on the information provided by the drivers.

Car Rental

Cars and jeeps are available for rental in Phuket and charges are deduced on a daily basis. Major Phuket hotels offer the services of Hertz and Avis car rental companies and renting a car at the airport is quite expensive. Always make sure that your rental car is insured for damages caused by another party. Privately owned jeeps are also available for rent, along the beach roads, and the price includes first-class insurance, covering both parties. All areas of Phuket are accessible by a regular two-wheel drive vehicle.

Long Tail Boat

Long-tail boats are among the oldest Phuket transportation methods and are quite popular in the present day as well. Although they are not as fast as modern speed boats, long-tail boats are ideal for short sightseeing tours and provide a unique experience for the Phuket traveller. However, the level of safety in long-tails is questionable and travellers with small children and non-swimmers are advised to avoid it.

Helicopters

A helicopter ride is the ultimate method of sightseeing and photographing Phuket. Southern Flying Group and Southern Helicopter Service are the two companies providing helicopter services and travellers have to call and arrange for a charter.