MalaysiaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Pulau Payar Marine Park, Langkawi

1. How can I get to Pulau Payar Marine Park from Langkawi Island?

There are a few options for getting to Pulau Payar Marine Park from Langkawi Island:

1. By boat: The most popular and convenient way to reach Pulau Payar Marine Park is by taking a boat tour from Langkawi Island. There are many tour operators that offer day trips to the marine park, usually including snorkeling or diving activities.

2. By private charter: You can also hire a private boat or charter a boat from Langkawi Island to take you directly to the marine park. This option may be more expensive but gives you more flexibility with your schedule and activities.

3. By ferry: There is a public ferry service that operates between Kuah Jetty in Langkawi Island and Pulau Payar Marine Park. However, this ferry only runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way.

4. By seaplane: Another unique way to reach Pulau Payar Marine Park is by seaplane from Langkawi Airport. Seaplanes operate daily and take about 25 minutes to reach the marine park.

2. How much does it cost to visit Pulau Payar Marine Park?
The entrance fee for adults (12 years old and above) to enter Pulau Payar Marine Park is RM30, while children (6-12 years old) pay RM15 and children under 6 years old can enter for free.

Boat tour prices vary depending on the tour operator and package chosen, but expect to pay around RM260-300 per person for a full-day trip including snorkeling activities.

Private boat charters can range from RM800-RM2000 depending on the size of the boat and duration of the trip.

Ferry tickets cost RM18 per person one way, or RM36 round trip.

Seaplane tours cost around RM600 per person for a 2 hour trip including sightseeing and snorkeling activities.

Prices may vary and it is best to check with the respective tour operators for accurate information and package deals.

2. Are there any ferry or boat services available to transport passengers to Pulau Payar Marine Park?

Yes, there are ferry and boat services available to transport passengers to Pulau Payar Marine Park from different locations in Malaysia such as Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Perlis. Some of the popular ferry and boat operators include Langkawi Coral, Tigerline Ferry, and South Pacific Travel. The duration of the ferry or boat ride may vary depending on the departure point, but it normally takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour from Langkawi and Penang, and 1.5-2 hours from Kuala Perlis.

3. How much does it cost to take a ferry or boat to Pulau Payar Marine Park?
The cost of taking a ferry or boat to Pulau Payar Marine Park varies depending on the departure location and operator. On average, a round-trip ticket from Langkawi costs around RM110 for adults and RM80 for children. From Penang or Kuala Perlis, the cost is slightly higher at around RM130 for adults and RM100 for children.

4. Can I bring food or beverages on board the ferry or boat to Pulau Payar Marine Park?
Yes, you can bring food or beverages on board as long as they are not prohibited items such as alcohol or drugs. It is recommended to pack light snacks and drinks as there may not be many options for purchasing food on the island.

5. What activities can I do at Pulau Payar Marine Park?
Pulau Payar Marine Park is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can also go on glass-bottom boat tours to see the underwater creatures without getting wet. The island also has amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, walking trails, and a floating platform with a viewing deck.

6. Are there any accommodations available on Pulau Payar Marine Park?
No, there are no accommodations on Pulau Payar Marine Park. The island is a designated marine park and there are only limited facilities for day trips. Visitors can choose to stay at nearby islands such as Langkawi or Penang and take a day trip to Pulau Payar.

7. Is Pulau Payar Marine Park suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Pulau Payar Marine Park can be a fun and educational experience for families with young children. However, parents should keep in mind that the island can get crowded during peak tourism periods and there are limited amenities. It is also important to closely supervise children while swimming or participating in water activities.

8. Are there any restrictions or regulations for visitors at Pulau Payar Marine Park?
Yes, visitors are expected to follow certain rules and regulations while visiting Pulau Payar Marine Park, including not littering, feeding wild animals, or damaging coral reefs. Fishing or collecting any marine life from the park is also strictly prohibited. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee upon arrival and undergo a brief orientation about the park’s rules.

9. Is it possible to visit Pulau Payar Marine Park as a day trip?
Yes, most visitors opt for a day trip to Pulau Payar Marine Park from nearby tourist destinations such as Langkawi or Penang. However, if you wish to explore more of the island at your own pace, you can also arrange for an overnight stay at nearby accommodations and take a ferry or boat back the next day.

10. What is the best time of year to visit Pulau Payar Marine Park?
The best time of year to visit Pulau Payar Marine Park is between December and April when the weather is dry and sunny with calm waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. However, note that this is also peak tourist season so expect larger crowds during this time. Alternatively, visiting in October-November may offer fewer crowds but some attractions on the island may be closed for maintenance during this time.

3. What type of boats are usually used for transportation to the marine park?

Commercial and tourist boats are typically used for transportation to the marine park. These can vary from small motorized boats to larger vessels, depending on the size and capacity of the park and the number of visitors it receives. Some marine parks may also have specialized boats for activities such as diving or snorkeling.

4. Can I rent a private boat or charter for transportation to the marine park?

Yes, there are private boat rental and charter services available for transportation to the marine park. You can contact local boat operators or tour companies to arrange for a private boat or charter. Be sure to plan in advance and discuss details such as pick-up and drop-off times, cost, and any specific requests or accommodations you may need.

5. Is there a specific time for boat departures and arrivals at Pulau Payar Marine Park?


Yes, there are specific departure and arrival times for boats at Pulau Payar Marine Park. Boats depart from the main jetty on Pulau Langkawi at 9:30am and return at 4:00pm. Visitors are advised to arrive at the jetty at least 30 minutes before departure time for check-in procedures. Boat schedules may vary depending on weather conditions, so it is best to confirm with your tour operator or the marine park authorities beforehand.

6. How long does it take to reach Pulau Payar Marine Park from Langkawi Island by boat?


It takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Pulau Payar Marine Park from Langkawi Island by boat. The time may vary depending on the type of boat and weather conditions.

7. What is the fare for the boat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park?


The fare for the boat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park varies depending on the departure point and operator. On average, it can cost between RM100-RM200 per person for a full-day trip which includes snorkeling activities and lunch. Private charters may cost more. It is recommended to check with different operators or tour agencies for the latest fares and packages.

8. Can I bring my own snorkeling or diving equipment on the boat ride to the marine park?


Yes, you are allowed to bring your own snorkeling or diving equipment on the boat ride to the marine park. However, it is important to check with the boat operator beforehand to make sure they have enough space to accommodate your equipment and if there are any specific regulations regarding bringing personal equipment on board.

9. Are there any restrictions on food and drinks onboard the boat during the trip to Pulau Payar Marine Park?


Yes, there are restrictions on bringing food and drinks aboard the boat during the trip to Pulau Payar Marine Park. Guests are not allowed to bring any food or drinks from outside sources onto the boat. This is to prevent any potential contamination of the island’s natural environment and also ensure the safety and health of guests. However, food and drinks can be purchased onboard the boat at designated areas.

10. Is there a guide or tour operator that provides transportation and activities at Pulau Payar Marine Park?


Yes, there are several tour operators that provide transportation and activities at Pulau Payar Marine Park. Some options include:

1. Jolly Seaboat – They offer a full-day snorkeling trip to Pulau Payar with transportation from Langkawi and equipment rental included.

2. Naam Paradise Travel & Tours – This company offers a variety of packages to Pulau Payar, including snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours with transportation provided.

3. Mega Water Sports – They offer custom tours to Pulau Payar where you can choose your own activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or sea walking. Transportation is also included.

4. Paradise 101 – They offer a full-day trip to Pulau Payar with various activities available including snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours.

It is always advisable to do some research and compare prices and services before booking a tour operator for your trip to Pulau Payar Marine Park.

11. Are there restroom facilities available on board the boats or at Pulau Payar Marine Park?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on board the boats as well as at Pulau Payar Marine Park. However, the restrooms on the boats may be basic and not always in pristine condition. It is recommended to use the restroom at Pulau Payar Marine Park for a more comfortable experience.

12. Can children and elderly people safely travel on the boat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park?

Generally, children and elderly people can safely travel on the boat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park. However, it is important to consider their physical abilities and any potential health conditions before making the trip.

Small children may need to be supervised and assisted during the boat ride, as well as throughout their time at the marine park. It is advisable to bring life jackets or flotation devices for young children, as they may not be strong swimmers.

Elderly individuals with mobility issues or chronic health conditions may need to take precautions and discuss any potential risks with their doctor before embarking on the boat journey. The boat ride can be bumpy at times and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.

It is also important to note that weather conditions can affect the safety of the boat ride. If there are any concerns about rough seas or high winds, it may be best for children and elderly individuals to avoid taking the boat ride. It is always better to err on the side of caution in these situations.

Overall, as long as proper precautions are taken and any potential risks are considered beforehand, most children and elderly people should have a safe and enjoyable experience on the boat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park.

13. Is there a limit on how many people can be accommodated on one boat ride to the marine park?


Yes, there is a limit on the number of people that can be accommodated on one boat ride to the marine park. This limit varies depending on the size and capacity of the boat, as well as safety regulations set by the marine park authorities. It is best to check with the specific marine park or tour operator for their specific limits.

14. Do boats have life jackets and other safety equipment onboard for emergencies?

Yes, boats are required to have life jackets and other safety equipment onboard for emergencies. The specific type and quantity of safety equipment can vary depending on the size and type of vessel, as well as the location and regulations in which it is operating. However, some common safety equipment that may be found on a boat includes life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs), a throwable flotation device such as a ring buoy or lifering, fire extinguishers, distress signals such as flares or distress flags, and first aid kits.

15. Are there any stops or detours along the way during the boat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park?


Depending on the tour provider, there may be a few stops or detours along the way to Pulau Payar Marine Park. Some common stops include snorkeling spots, fish feeding areas, and other nearby islands for sightseeing. However, these stops are usually planned in advance and will not significantly lengthen the boat ride to the marine park.

16. Can I bring my pet with me on the boat ride to the marine park?

Typically, pets are not allowed on boat rides to marine parks due to safety reasons and the potential for disturbance to the marine life. It is best to leave your pet at home while you enjoy the marine park.

17. Are there any tours that include transportation, snorkeling, and other activities at Pulau Payar Marine Park in one package?

Yes, there are several tour packages that include transportation, snorkeling, and other activities at Pulau Payar Marine Park. Some examples include:

1. Full-Day Pulau Payar Marine Park Snorkeling Tour from Langkawi: This tour includes return transfers from your hotel in Langkawi, a speedboat ride to Pulau Payar Marine Park, snorkeling equipment, a guided snorkeling session with an experienced guide, a fish-feeding session and beach visit.

2. 3 Island Hopping & Pulau Payar Marine Park Snorkeling Tour from Langkawi: This full-day tour includes a visit to three different islands for snorkeling and sightseeing, including Pulau Payar Marine Park. Transfers from your hotel in Langkawi are included, as well as lunch and all snorkeling equipment.

3. Private Day Cruise to Pulau Payar: This private tour offers the ultimate luxury experience at Pulau Payar Marine Park. It includes round-trip transportation from any location in Langkawi, a private chartered boat with captain and crew, snorkeling equipment and guided sessions, fishing gear, and lunch on board the boat.

4. Pulau Payar Full Day Snorkel Tour Including Waterfall Beach Barbecue: This unique tour starts with a visit to the Seven Wells Waterfall before heading to Pulau Payar for snorkeling. After snorkeling, you will enjoy a mouth-watering barbecue lunch on the beach before heading back to your hotel in Langkawi.

These are just some of the many options available for tours that include transportation, snorkeling and other activities at Pulau Payar Marine Park. It is recommended to research and compare different tours to find one that best fits your needs and budget.

18. How far away is Pulau Langkawi from Pulau Payar Marine Park and how is it navigated between them?


Pulau Langkawi is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) away from Pulau Payar Marine Park. The islands are connected by a ferry service, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour to navigate between them. The ferry operates several times a day from the main jetty in Kuah, Langkawi to the marine park on Pulau Payar. Alternatively, visitors can also take a speedboat or charter a boat for a more personalized trip.

19. Are there any other modes of transportation available to get to the marine park other than by boat?

It depends on the location of the marine park and the surrounding area. Some marine parks may have access roads or bridges that allow visitors to drive or walk to the park. Others may have designated hiking trails or bike paths that lead to the park. It is important to research and plan ahead for transportation options before visiting a marine park.

20. What is the best time of year to visit Pulau Payar Marine Park and how does it affect transportation and navigation?


The best time of year to visit Pulau Payar Marine Park is from November to March, during the dry season in Malaysia. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and the sea is calm, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving.

The peak season for tourists in Pulau Payar Marine Park is from December to February, with more crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of September to November or April to June.

Transportation and navigation can be affected by the weather conditions. During monsoon season (April to October), sea conditions can be rough and some ferry services may be suspended due to safety concerns. It is important to check weather forecasts before planning your trip and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations.

During peak season, it is advisable to book transportation in advance, as ferry services may fill up quickly. During shoulder seasons, there may be less frequent ferry services available, so plan accordingly.