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Glide past Wat Arun's porcelain facade, the Grand Palace, and capture Wat Pho's reclining Buddha, all bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. Get views of the city you can't get from land.
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Book Chao Phraya River Cruises & Dining Experiences
Select Your Experience
- Sail for 2 hours on a 'traveler's choice' cruise on the Chao Phraya River, serenaded by a live band recreating timeless pop hits, and feasting on a buffet dinner.
- Orange skies or stars? Choose the perfect backdrop to your sophisticated evening by picking between the Sunset Cruise and Dinner Cruise.
- Say yum a lot as you tuck into a lavish spread: choose between an international, Indian, or Sunset menu. Opt to polish these with unlimited beer.
- Dance the evening or night away to live 80’s and 90’s English pop music, while greeting Wat Arun, Grand Palace, and other landmarks along the way.
Inclusions
- Choice of cruise: Dinner/Sunset
- Buffet menu options: International/Indian/Sunset
- Welcome drink
- Live music
- Unlimited beer refills (optional)
- Coffee/tea (optional)
Depending on which cruise you choose, the departure point will either be Icon Siam Pier or Asiatique Pier. Sightseeing spots include:
- Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
- Taksin Bridge
- Icon Siam Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: Make your way to the deck and attempt to glimpse the illuminated Rama Bridge, visible every half hour for a brief duration each time.
- The cruise has 2 boarding points: Icon Siam Pier 4 and Asiatique Pier 2.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
White Orchid River Cruise with Live Cabaret, International Buffet Dinner & Unlimited Beer
- Join the fun and cost-effective White Orchid Cruise for a joyful and entertaining journey along the Chao Phraya River with your loved ones.
- Indulge in a gourmet feast of international dishes, complemented by bottomless beer and a fantastic cabaret show for a wholesome experience.
- Lose yourself in the illuminated charm of iconic landmarks like The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, with peppy live music on any of the cruise's 3 decks.
- Choose a sunset cruise for a serene evening on the water or elevate your date night with a memorable dinner cruise experience.
Inclusions
- Choice of cruise: Dinner/Sunset
- International buffet dinner
- Free-flow beer
- Live cabaret show
- Live music
Depending on which cruise you choose, the departure point will either be Icon Siam Pier or Asiatique Pier. Sightseeing spots include:
- Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
- Taksin Bridge
- Icon Siam Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: Head to the deck and try to catch views of the lit Rama Bridge (happens every half hour, lasting a few minutes each time).
- The rate for children aged 4-10 applies specifically to those who are not taller than 110cm.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Food preferences like a vegetarian diet and allergies can be accommodated with prior notice.
- The cruise has 2 boarding points: Icon Siam Pier 4 and Asiatique Pier 2.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Set sail in the lap of luxury along the Chao Phraya River on this all-in-one authentic cruise, and get access to top-tier amenities with supreme comfort.
- Treat yourself not just to Thai cuisine but also to an array of global flavors at the extensive buffet, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite.
- Delve yourself in local culture with a classical Thai dance onboard the cruise, enhanced by live music to set the perfect mood for the night.
- Marvel as your cruise glides by iconic landmarks like the Taksin Bridge and Wat Pho, enjoying an onboard fountain, plush seating, and escalators.
Inclusions
- Dinner cruise
- Thai & international buffet (check menu here)
- Live music band and Thai classical dance
The cruise will depart from River City Pier, sail up to Rama VIII Bridge, and then return to River City Pier, covering these sightseeing spots.
- River City Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: Make sure to pay attention to the onboard entertainers who might share interesting facts about the nearby attractions.
- All seats in the outdoor area might be subject to change to the indoor area according to the local weather conditions.
- Special dietary requirements such as allergies, gluten intolerance, vegetarianism, etc., can be entertained with prior information.
- Timings: Check-in time: 6pm to 7:10pm & cruising time: 7:30pm to 9:30pm
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, you can use them any time until 31 October, 2024.
- These tickets are valid until 31 October, 2024.
- Spend a beautiful night cruising along the Chao Phraya River surrounded by the exquisite skyline of Bangkok in a luxurious Royal Galaxy Cruise.
- Get whisked away on this river odyssey and grab your complimentary welcome drink. Get to savor a fine selection of teas, coffees, and desserts on your cruise.
- Munch on a smorgasbord of gourmet delights – think Thai spices, melt-in-mouth seafood, and global flavors while you enjoy Khon Show – a Thai masked dance drama.
- Cruise past the Wat Arun temple featuring colorful spires, and the Grand Palace, a majestic complex of royal buildings located along the River of Kings.
- Celebrating a special occasion? Get a complimentary mini birthday cake, perfect for romantic evenings or nights out with friends.
Inclusions
- 2-hr cruise on Chao Phraya River
- Welcome drink
- Coffee, tea, water
- International buffet & seafood
- Free mini birthday cake on birthday month
- Live music by a duo
- Thai classical dance & Khon show
The cruise will depart from Asiatique Pier, sail up to Rama VIII Bridge, and then return to Asiatique Pier, covering these sightseeing spots.
Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
Taksin Bridge
Icon Siam Pier
Memorial Bridge
Wat Kanlaya
Wat Pho
Wat Arun
The Grand Palace
Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: For the best views of Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, head to the open deck as the cruise nears these iconic landmarks.
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Strict dress code: Avoid flip-flops, shorts, and beachwear.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Want to experience a classic Bangkok cruise without breaking the bank? Enjoy sailing on this 2-deck cruise with dinner and live music.
- Be greeted with a welcome drink, then dive into a feast of international and seafood dishes by a top chef, along with an Indian corner.
- Groove to the live music by a Filipino singer onboard the cruise and get entertained by a Thai classical show.
- View Bangkok's iconic landmarks, from the iconic Buddhist temples to the illuminated Memorial Bridge, in just 2 hours from your comfy seat.
- Choose the magical twilight glow of the sunset cruise or the enchanting ambiance of a dinner cruise, both promising unforgettable moments.
Inclusions
- Choice of cruise: Dinner/Sunset
- International buffet & seafood (check menu here)
- Live music
- Welcome drink, drinking water, Coffee, & tea
- Free cake on birthday month/anniversary/for graduates
- Thai classical dance (optional)
The cruise will depart from Icon Siam Pier, sail up to Rama VIII Bridge, and then return to Icon Siam Pier, covering these sightseeing spots.
- Icon Siam Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: For a hassle-free entrance, it is advised against wearing flip-flops, shorts, tank tops, sleeveless shirts, etc.
- The rate for children aged 4-10 applies specifically to those whose height is not over 110cm.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Step onto the grand Viva Alangka Cruise, boasting 3 decks with air-conditioned and open-air areas, stellar 5-star service, and onboard entertainment.
- You're in for a gastronomic experience with a lavish spread that offers international delicacies and seafood delights.
- Get into the rhythm with a live music show by duo musicians and dive into local culture with an optional Thai classical dance.
- Choose between a picturesque sunset cruise or a delightful dinner cruise, complete with a complimentary birthday cake to sweeten the celebration.
Inclusions
- Choice of cruise: Dinner/Sunset
- International buffet & seafood (check menu here)
- Welcome drink
- Live music by a duo
- Coffee, tea, & water
- Thai classical dance (optional)
- Mini birthday cake (optional)
The cruise will depart from Asiatique Pier, sail up to Rama VIII Bridge, and then return to Asiatique Pier, covering these sightseeing spots, or vice versa.
- Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
- Taksin Bridge
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: For the best views of Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, head to the open deck as the cruise nears these iconic landmarks.
- The sunset cruise is available on weekends only.
- The rate for children aged 4-10 applies specifically to those whose height is not over 110cm.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Experience boundless fun aboard this modern Cruise for a quintessential Bangkok adventure along the city's bloodline, Chao Phraya.
- Make dining on the waters worthwhile with an expansive buffet featuring international and seafood delicacies.
- Let a singing duo serenade you with romantic tunes as you enjoy great views on the sunset cruise, along with a complimentary birthday cake.
- Choose the dinner cruise for an immersive cultural experience with Thai classical dance, and savor a refreshing fruity mocktail too.
- Bask in the vibe of the rooftop deck or relax on the air-conditioned lower decks while sailing past landmarks like Wat Kanlaya and Rama VIII Bridge.
Inclusions
The cruise will depart from Asiatique Pier, sail up to Rama VIII Bridge, and then return to Asiatique Pier, covering these sightseeing spots.
- Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
- Taksin Bridge
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: Arrive early to secure a seat on the open-air deck for a truly authentic cruise experience.
- The experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Special dietary requirements such as allergies, gluten intolerance, vegetarianism, etc, can be entertained with prior information.
- To receive a free birthday cake, have your passport ready for verification on the day of the event.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Get ready for a premium experience on Bangkok waters aboard this modern cruise boasting elegant decor and 3 expansive decks.
- Start your evening with a refreshing welcome treat and tuck into a diverse buffet featuring international and seafood delicacies crafted by expert chefs.
- Dance with your squad to the live singer's entertaining tunes, then relax on comfy seats while enjoying a charming Thai classical dance.
- Take in the river views from large windows on the first 2 decks, or head to the 3rd floor for panoramic vistas of popular landmarks on both sides.
- Choose between the serene beauty of a sunset cruise or the vibrancy of a dinner cruise, ensuring an evening tailored to your desires.
Inclusions
- Choice of cruise: Dinner/Sunset
- International buffet & seafood (check menu here)
- Live music
- Welcome drink
- Tea, coffee, & drinking water
- Thai classical dance (optional)
- Mini birthday cake (optional)
- Tip: Capture stunning photos of the illuminated skyline as you cruise along the Chao Phraya River during the evening.
- The rate for children aged 4-10 applies specifically to those whose height is not over 110cm.
- The sunset cruise is valid only on Saturdays and Sundays.
- The 'buy 4, get 1 free pitcher of beer' offer is valid only in February 2024.
The cruise will depart from Icon Siam Pier, sail up to Rama VIII Bridge, and then return to Icon Siam Pier, covering these sightseeing spots.
- Icon Siam Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Explore Bangkok's essence on this all-in-one deluxe cruise, featuring delicious dining, live shows, and customizable options for a flexible journey.
- Kick off your night with a welcome drink or bottomless beer, paired with your choice of buffet offering Indian, Thai, or international delights.
- Looking for excitement? Enjoy a live music performance and opt for a Thai dance or cabaret show to add fun to your experience.
- Choose between the comfort of air-conditioned decks or the refreshing open-air experience while spotting landmarks like Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
- Tailor your cruise with a variety of buffet options, including Indian, Thai, or international cuisine, along with the choice of boarding locations.
Inclusions
- 2-hour dinner cruise
- Buffet menu options:
- Live music
- Free-flow beer (optional)
- Welcome drink, coffee, tea (optional)
- Thai classical dance/cabaret show (optional)
Depending on which cruise you choose, the departure point will either be Icon Siam Pier or Asiatique Pier. Sightseeing spots include:
- Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
- Taksin Bridge
- Icon Siam Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: Don't forget to keep your camera ready for stunning night skyline shots.
- This ticket is valid on the date of the visit as stated.
- Special dietary requirements such as allergies, gluten intolerance, vegetarianism, etc., can be entertained with prior information.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
1.5-Hour Sunset Cruise with International Buffet, Unlimited Beer & Live Cabaret (Optional)
- Set sail on the Chao Phraya River for 1.5 hours as the sun sets, and the party begins onboard with an evening of entertainment, dining, and fantastic views.
- Be greeted with a welcome drink as you board from Icon Siam Pier. Relish an international buffet featuring a seafood menu, coupled with live music.
- Catch sight of numerous landmarks that are spectacularly illuminated at night such as the stunning Wat Arun temple, also known as the Temple of Dawn.
- Upgrade your ticket to include delightful perks like unlimited beer and a live cabaret performance, with boarding from the Asiaqtique Pier.
Inclusions
- 1.5-hour sunset cruise
- International buffet & seafood
- International buffet: no pork (optional)
- Live music
- Welcome drink, coffee & tea (optional)
- Free-flow beer (optional)
- Live cabaret show (optional)
Depending on which cruise you choose, the departure point will either be Icon Siam Pier or Asiatique Pier. Sightseeing spots include:
- Asiatique The Riverfront Pier
- Taksin Bridge
- Icon Siam Pier
- Memorial Bridge
- Wat Kanlaya
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- The Grand Palace
- Rama VIII Bridge
Click here for the cruise route map.
- Tip: For the best views of Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, head to the open deck as the cruise nears these iconic landmarks.
- Pets are not allowed on this cruise.
- Wearing flip-flops, shorts, tank tops, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed.
- You can check the dinner buffet menu here.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Why go on a Chao Praya river cruise?
River-borne view of Bangkok
Your Chao Phraya river cruise options
Sunset cruises
- Enjoy budget-friendly options and see prominent Bangkok landmarks like Wat Pho and Wat Arun on 2 or 3-story sunset cruises.
- Select cruises include international fare with unlimited beer and live music.
Average duration: 90 minutes
Recommended experiences:
- Chao Phraya Princess Sunset Cruise
- White Orchid River Cruise with Live Cabaret & Unlimited Beer
Dinner cruises
- Get luxury cruise options and sail along the banks of the Chao Phraya river with sights like the Grand Palace and Rama VIII Bridge.
- Indulge in fine-dining multi-course meals that’ll elevate your gastronomy and mixology experience. Watch traditional Thai dances on board accompanied by live music.
Average duration: 120 minutes
Recommended experiences:
- Wonderful Pearl Luxury Cruise
- Viva Alangka Cruise with Dinner & Duo Musicians
Find your best Chao Phraya cruise match here
Experience
Type
Boarding point
Timings
Food & Drinks
Entertainment
Boat type
Book Tickets
Chao Phraya Princess Cruise Sunset
Sunset
Asiatique
5pm to 6:30pm
International & seafood with unlimited beer
Live music
2 story
Chao Phraya Princess Cruise with Dinner & Live Music
Dinner
Asiatique & ICONSIAM
7:30pm to 9:30pm
International, seafood & Indian
Live music
2 story
White Orchid River Cruise with Live Cabaret & Unlimited Beer
Sunset
Asiatique & ICONSIAM
5pm to 6:45pm
International & Thai with unlimited beer
Live music & cabaret
3 story
White Orchid River Cruise with Live Cabaret & Unlimited Beer
Dinner
Asiatique & ICONSIAM
7:45pm to 9:45pm
International & Thai with unlimited beer
Live music, Thai dance & cabaret
3 story
Wonderful Pearl Luxury Cruise with 5-Course Dinner & Thai Dance
Dinner
River City
7:30pm to 9:30pm
International & Thai 5 course set-meal
Live music & Thai dance
Luxury boat
Royal Princess Cruise with Unlimited Beer & Live Music
Sunset
Asiatique
4:45pm to 6:45pm
International & seafood with unlimited beer
Live music
2 story
Royal Princess Cruise with Unlimited Beer & Live Music
Dinner
Asiatique
7:30pm to 9:30pm
International & seafood with unlimited beer
Live music & Thai dance
2 story
Meridian Cruise
Sunset
ICONSIAM
5pm to 6:45pm (Mon to Fri), 4:45pm to 6:30pm (Sat to Sun)
International & seafood
Live music
2 story
Viva Alangka Cruise with Dinner & Duo Musicians
Dinner
Asiatique & Rama 3
7:45pm to 9:45pm
International & seafood
Live music
3 story
2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment & Unlimited Beer
Dinner
Asiatique
7:15pm to 9:15pm
International, seafood, Thai & Indian with unlimited beer
Live music, Thai dance & cabaret
2 story
1.5-Hour Sunset Cruise with Buffet, Optional Live Cabaret & Unlimited Beer
Sunset
Asiatique & ICONSIAM
5pm to 6:45pm (Mon to Fri), 4:45pm to 6:30pm (Sat to Sun)
International & seafood with unlimited beer
Live music & cabaret
2 story
Royal Galaxy Cruise
Dinner
Asiatique
8pm to 10pm
International & seafood
Live music, Thai dance & Khon show
3 story
Chao Phraya river cruise route map
Smooth sailing starts here: Your guide to checking in & boarding your Chao Phraya river cruise
Regardless of your choice of cruise, you’ll start your journey from either of these 4 piers. Each pier is conveniently located in city hotspots, making it easy for you to not just access your cruise but also get a flavor of the local culture.
Asiatique Pier
- Famous for: Night markets, Ferris wheel, restaurants, bars, live music, entertainment options.
- Closest BTS station: Saphan Taksin
ICONSIAM Pier
- Famous for: Luxurious shopping mall, stunning riverside location, longest fountain in Southeast Asia, diverse dining options, cultural events.
- Closest BTS station: Krung Thonburi
River City Pier
- Famous for: Art galleries, antique shops, high-end restaurants, cultural exhibitions, panoramic views of the river.
- Closest BTS station: Saphan Taksin
Rama 3 Pier
- Famous for: Gateway to historical and cultural landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, local markets, traditional Thai restaurants.
- Closest BTS station: Klong Toei
Know before you go on a Chao Phraya river cruise
Timings
Best time to go on a cruise
Getting there
Food & Drink options
Facilities
Rules & regulations
Visitor tips
While cruise hours may vary depending on your choice of cruise operator, here's a handy breakdown of general timings and duration that'll help you plan your visit better:
Sunset cruises
- Average duration: 90 minutes
- General timings: Most sunset cruises take place between 4:45 to 6pm. Your ticket will have the exact time slot depending on your cruise operator.
Dinner cruises
- Average duration: 120 minutes
- General timings: Most dinner cruises take place 7pm onwards. Your ticket will have the exact time slot depending on your cruise operator.
Note: Check-in starts 1 hour before departure.
Know more
Best time of year
- Dry season (November to April): This is generally considered the peak season with minimal rain, and clear skies, perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying the sunset.
- Shoulder season (May to June and September to October): These months offer a good balance between pleasant weather and smaller crowds, Sunsets remain beautiful, although showers could occasionally interrupt the evening.
- Rainy season (July to August): While rain showers are frequent, they often come in bursts, followed by clear skies. You might even witness dramatic monsoon sunsets.
Best time of day
- Sunset hours: As the sun dips below the horizon, you'll witness Bangkok's landmarks shimmer in golden light. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks and appetizers while soaking in the cityscape.
- Dinner time: Savor a delicious multi-course meal as the city lights twinkle to life, creating an Insta-worthy backdrop for your evening.
Asiatique Pier
- Bus: Take bus #45 directly to Asiatique The Riverfront.
- Free ferry (limited hours): Enjoy the free shuttle ferry from Sathorn Pier starting at 4:30 pm.
- More frequent options: Opt for the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat or Chao Phraya River Express for flexible timings.
ICONSIAM Pier
- Bus: Choose bus #15 or #505 from Saphan Taksin Station for a direct connection to ICONSIAM.
- Shuttle: Take the convenient free shuttle boat from Sathorn Pier.
River City Pier
- Bus: Consider buses #1, #81, or #505 from Saphan Taksin Station, depending on your preferred route and connection to ferry services.
- Walking: Enjoy a scenic 10-15 minute walk south along Charoen Nakhon Road from Saphan Taksin Station (Exit 3).
- Taxi: Grab a taxi for around 50 THB for a direct ride.
- Ferry: Take the orange Chao Phraya Express boat (40 THB) from Sathorn Pier to Si Phraya Pier, then walk 5 minutes
Rama 3 Pier
- Bus: Take bus #205 from Wongwian Yai Station to the "Rama III Soi 51" stop, then walk briefly to the pier.
- Walking: Enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk south along Rama III Road from Wongwian Yai Station (Exit 2).
- Taxi: Grab a taxi for around 50 THB for a direct ride to the pier.
All Chao Phraya dinner cruises and sunset cruises come with either buffet options or a multi-course set menu. While menus are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, here are a few links to help you understand what to expect:
- Chao Phraya Princess Cruise: International, Indian, Sunset
- Meridian Cruise: International buffet & seafood
- Wonderful Pearl Cruise: Thai & international buffet
- Chao Phraya River Cruise: Thai food, seafood & international buffet
- Viva Alangka Cruise: International buffer & seafood
- Note: Some cruises also offer unlimited beer, complimentary birthday cakes, and unlimited complimentary refreshments like tea, coffee, or juice, and even a glass of wine.
- Restrooms: Available on all boats, usually clean and well-maintained.
- Life jackets: Provided for safety and readily accessible.
- First-aid kit: Available in case of minor emergencies.
- Buffet area (for buffet cruises): Offering a variety of Thai and international dishes.
- Seating arrangements: Tables and chairs for comfortable dining or lounging.
- Bar(s): Serving drinks like soft drinks, juices, alcoholic beverages, and cocktails
- Open decks: Enjoy the fresh air, river views, and city skyline.
- Live music (on some cruises): Enhancing the ambiance and creating a festive atmosphere.
- Traditional Thai dance performances (on some cruises): Immerse yourself in local culture.
- Air conditioning: Providing comfort on hotter days.
- Arrive early: Most cruises require passengers to arrive at the pier at least 1 hour before departure to allow for check-in.
- Boarding procedures: Follow the instructions provided by the crew members for boarding the cruise.
- Smart casual attire: While there is usually no strict dress code, opting for smart casual attire is generally recommended.
- Dietary restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to inform the cruise operator in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements.
- Outside food and drinks: Bringing outside food and drinks is not allowed on board.
- Designated smoking areas: Smoking is typically prohibited on decks and inside the boats. Look for designated smoking areas if you need to smoke.
- Limited storage space: Most cruises have limited storage space for luggage, so pack only essentials. Large suitcases or backpacks might not be allowed.
- Respectful conduct: This includes avoiding loud noises, disruptive behavior, and any actions that could endanger yourself or others.
- Capture the golden hour: For stunning worthy for the ‘gram photos, go for sunset cruises, when the sky explodes with vibrant colors.
- Embrace reflections: Utilize the water's surface for unique mirror images of temples and landmarks.
- Try local specialties: Sample unique Thai dishes near the pier points for the best views and food. Try pad thai, tom yum soup, or mango sticky rice for an authentic culinary experience.
- Spice it up (or down): Inform the staff about your spice preference. They can adjust dishes or provide condiments to suit your taste.
- Save room for dessert: Don't miss out on delicious Thai desserts like mango sticky rice or coconut ice cream.
- Learn a few Thai phrases: Basic greetings like "Sawasdee" (hello) and "Kop khun krap/ka" (thank you) go a long way.
- Observe local customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or sacred sites along the riverbanks.
- Support local vendors: Purchase souvenirs from small stalls on the piers or during brief stops at local markets.
Your visual guide to Chao Phraya river cruises: temples, palaces, & river delights
See all photos
Top landmarks to spot on your Chao Phraya river cruise
Wat Kanlaya
A charming riverside temple known for its peaceful atmosphere and intricate wood carvings. Take a moment to appreciate the delicate details of the ubosoth (main ordination hall) and the surrounding gardens.
Wat Arun
The "Temple of Dawn" boasts a stunning prang (Khmer-style tower) adorned with colorful ceramics. Be sure to admire the intricate porcelain details.
Wat Pho
Home to the iconic Reclining Buddha statue, this temple complex also houses traditional medicine schools and massage clinics. Don't miss the chance to experience a traditional Thai massage in a serene atmosphere after your cruise.
Rama VIII Bridge
A majestic cable-stayed bridge offering views of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok skyline. Capture photos from the observation deck or simply admire the well-engineered structure as you sail under it.
The Grand Palace
The former royal residence, now a museum showcasing Thai cultural treasures. Did you know the Emerald Buddha within the Grand Palace is carved from a single massive block of jade and is considered Thailand's most sacred statue?
Thammasat University
This riverside campus features a blend of Thai and Western architectural styles. The prestigious Thammasat University is known for its iconic "Democracy Monument," a symbol of the fight for democracy in Thailand.
Frequently asked questions about Chao Phraya River Cruises
What are the different types of Chao Phraya river cruises?
Chao Phraya cruises come in various options, mainly categorized by time of day. Sunset cruises let you enjoy fiery skies and iconic landmarks for shorter durations (around 1.5 hours) with snacks and light meals. While dinner cruises let you savor multi-course meals with vibrant city lights and live entertainment for a complete evening experience (around 2 hours).
What are the best times to go on a Chao Phraya river cruise?
The best time of day to go on a cruise would be either at sunset (5 PM to 7 PM) for breathtaking hues and fewer crowds or at night, after 7 PM for twinkling city lights, lively vibes, and dinner. The best season would be the dry season (Nov-April) offers clear skies and pleasant weather, but expect crowds. Shoulder seasons (May-June, Sept-Oct) provide a balance. Rainy season (July-Aug) has lower prices but potential disruptions.
What can I see on a Chao Phraya river cruise?
Besides famous Bangkok landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Rama VIII Bridge, and Wat Pho you’ll also get a glimpse of the cityscape and culture, charming riverside neighborhoods, royal barges, temples, and local life.
How long are typical Chao Phraya river cruises?
The duration varies depending on the type of cruise you choose. Sunset cruises last around 1.5 hours, perfect for capturing the golden hour and city lights. Dinner cruises typically last 2 hours, offering a full dining experience with stunning night views.
Which pier should I choose for my Chao Phraya river cruise?
Consider Asiatique for post-cruise nightlife buzz, ICONSIAM for pre-cruise luxury shopping and dining, River City for history buffs near antique stores, and Wat Pho, Rama 3 for stunning bridge views and easy Wat Arun access. All piers are conveniently accessible by public transport! Ultimately, pick the one that aligns with your interests - nightlife, luxury, history, or sights.
What kind of food and drinks are offered on Chao Phraya river cruises?
Sunset cruises offer international platters, seafood options, and sometimes unlimited beer. Dinner cruises offer buffets (international, Thai, seafood, Indian) or set menus with fine dining options on luxury cruises. Some cruises offer unlimited beer, birthday cakes, and refreshments like tea, coffee, or welcome drinks
What facilities are available on Chao Phraya river cruises?
Restrooms, life jackets, first-aid kits, buffet areas (on buffet cruises), seating, bars, open decks, live music (on some), dance performances (on some), and air conditioning are some facilities available on Bangkok River cruises.
How much do Chao Phraya river cruises cost?
Cruise prices vary depending on the type, duration, and inclusions like food, drinks, entertainment, and your chosen pier. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy stunning sunset cruises from ฿650, while mid-range options like dinner cruises with buffets start at ฿880. Craving luxury? Fine dining experiences with live music await from ฿1,400.
What are some popular Chao Phraya river cruise options?
Popular choices include the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise, White Orchid River Cruise, Royal Princess Cruise, Meridian Cruise, Wonderful Pearl Cruise, and Sirimahannop Dinner Cruise.
Are Chao Phraya river cruises suitable for children?
Yes, all cruises are family-friendly and offer child-friendly options like buffets with kid-friendly dishes.
Is there any dress code for Chao Phraya river cruises?
While there's no strict dress code, smart casual attire is generally recommended. For luxury cruises, you might consider slightly dressier options.
Can I bring luggage on a Chao Phraya river cruise?
Most cruises have limited luggage storage space, so pack only essentials. Large suitcases or backpacks might not be allowed. Consider leaving unnecessary luggage at your hotel or using luggage storage services.
Are there any accessibility considerations for Chao Phraya river cruises?
Most cruises are accessible to people with disabilities. However, it's always best to check beforehand to ensure your needs can be accommodated.