River Star Princess Dinner Cruise: Bangkok Chao Phraya River

Experience Bangkok from the Water with the River Star Princess Dinner Cruise

Taking a cruise along the Chao Phraya River offers a unique way to see Bangkok’s illuminated temples, historic landmarks, and bustling city life from a different perspective. The River Star Princess Dinner Cruise is a popular choice for travelers wanting a relaxed evening of good food, scenic views, and live entertainment. Priced at just under $40 per person, it promises an affordable yet memorable night, especially if you’re keen on combining sightseeing with a tasty buffet.

One thing we really like about this experience is how accessible it is—meeting at River City Bangkok makes it easy to find, and the itinerary covers some of the city’s most famous sights, like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. Plus, the buffet features both Thai and international dishes, appealing to diverse palates. However, keep in mind that the cruise doesn’t include transfers, so you’ll need to arrive separately, and timing traffic in Bangkok can be a challenge.

This cruise suits travelers looking for an easy, affordable way to enjoy Bangkok’s night scenery without the hassle of navigating crowded streets or booking multiple tours. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a laid-back evening with good company, entertainment, and scenic views. Solo travelers should note that seating can be limited and some reviews mention feeling a bit isolated, so it’s better if you’re comfortable dining in a group setting.

Key Points

Stunning Night Views: The cruise offers panoramic sights of Bangkok’s landmarks beautifully lit up at night.
Delicious Buffet: Expect a diverse range of Thai and international dishes with plenty of options for different tastes.
Authentic Entertainment: Enjoy traditional Thai performances, Khon mask dancing, and live music, adding cultural charm to your evening.
Value for Money: With an attractive price point, this cruise provides a relaxing way to experience Bangkok’s riverfront attractions.
Seating and Atmosphere: While group-oriented, the cruise maintains an intimate feel, and many reviews mention the overall friendly vibe.
Limited Included Services: No transfers are included, so plan accordingly if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

A Detailed Look at the River Star Princess Dinner Cruise

Setting the Scene

Imagine floating smoothly along the Chao Phraya River, the city’s glow shimmering on the water’s surface. As you settle into your table, you’ll be treated to a buffet that features a broad spectrum of Thai and international cuisines. Guests frequently mention the quality and variety of the food, with reviews describing it as “fantastic,” “delicious,” and “lots of choices.” The buffet is designed to cater to all tastes, from spicy Thai dishes to Western favorites, making it easy to indulge without worry.

Boarding and Meeting Point

The meeting point is at River City Bangkok, a well-known and accessible location at 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24. The experience starts at 7:30 pm, so arriving at least half an hour early is recommended. Several reviews highlight the smooth boarding process, with many travelers saying they boarded just before departure and appreciated the clear instructions. Be aware that Bangkok traffic can be unpredictable, and some recommend arriving two hours early to avoid rushing.

Itinerary Breakdown

• Phra Pin-klao Bridge: This bridge connects Rattanakosin Island with Thonburi and is the first sight on the cruise. From the water, it’s fascinating to see how the city’s historic and modern parts intertwine. While it’s a quick pass, it sets the tone for the scenic journey ahead.

• Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun): One of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, Wat Arun’s intricate design is especially stunning when lit up at night. The reviews mention that the views of Wat Arun from the river are spectacular, and it’s a highlight for many onboard.

• The Grand Palace: Though you don’t stop here, the cruise offers a memorable view of this grand complex, which has been the royal residence since 1782. Several reviews note that the lights on the Grand Palace add to the overall ambiance, even if they wished for a bit more illumination or commentary.

• King Taksin Bridge: This bridge further extends the river’s scenic charm, and many find cruising under it a peaceful, reflective experience.

• The Riverfront Shopping Area: As you approach the end of your cruise, the Riverfront is a large open-air mall that faces the river. While not part of the boat experience, many travelers enjoy walking around here before or after the cruise, exploring local shops and bars.

Dining Experience

The buffet is a major draw, with reviewers consistently praising the variety and quality of food. One guest described it as “fantastic” with many choices, and another noted the delicious dishes that made it a worthwhile part of the evening. The buffet includes both traditional Thai dishes and international fare, allowing guests to sample different flavors without leaving the boat.

Entertainment and Cultural Shows

The cruise features live music, Thai performances, and a Khon mask dancing show. Reviewers mention that the performers are graceful, and the live music adds to the festive atmosphere. While some found the entertainment to be “great” and enjoyed the cultural performances, a few critics remarked that the music could be more engaging and that the singing was sometimes off-key or lacking variety.

Overall Atmosphere

Many describe the cruise as relaxing and scenic, with the moonlight reflecting off the water creating a romantic backdrop. The group setting allows for camaraderie, but it’s also possible to have an intimate dinner. Some reviews mention feeling a bit isolated if seated in a less central spot, so arriving early to choose a good table could enhance your experience.

Price and Value

At approximately $39.54 per person, this cruise is considered excellent value, especially given the quality of the food, the live entertainment, and the impressive night views. Several reviews highlight how reasonable the prices for onboard drinks are, although many note that drinks outside the buffet are extra and can be pricey. The cruise doesn’t include transfers, so your transportation to and from the meeting point is on you, but the price overall still offers a good deal.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are positive, some guests express certain concerns. The entertainment, for instance, can be hit or miss—some found it lively and enjoyable, while others thought it was “boring” or poorly performed. A notable mention was about passengers doing karaoke over the microphone, which might not appeal to everyone. Also, traffic in Bangkok can make arriving early necessary if you want to avoid stress.

Who Will Love It?

This cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic evening, small groups looking for a relaxed experience, or first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Bangkok’s riverfront. It’s also a good choice if you’re on a budget but want a taste of local culture paired with scenic views. However, solo travelers may want to check seating arrangements, as some reviews mention feeling a bit separated.

Final Thoughts

The River Star Princess Dinner Cruise offers a solid combination of scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and tasty food at an accessible price. It’s ideal for those who want an easy evening out without complicated logistics or high costs. The highlights—stunning night views of Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, a hearty buffet, and lively performances—make it a memorable way to experience Bangkok after sunset.

While the entertainment could be more polished, the overall atmosphere is warm and welcoming. If you’re prepared for traffic and arriving early, this cruise can become a highlight of your Bangkok trip. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize value, scenic views, and an authentic cultural vibe without the fuss of more elaborate tours.

FAQs

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 7:30 pm, so arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended to find a good seat and settle in.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is at River City Bangkok, located at 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24. The location is close to public transportation.

Are transfers included?
No, the cruise does not include transfers. You’ll need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the sights, food, and entertainment.

Is the buffet vegetarian-friendly?
The buffet offers a variety of dishes, including Thai and international options. While specific dietary info isn’t provided, many reviews praise the variety, so vegetarians should find suitable choices.

Can I bring drinks onboard?
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase on the boat, but they are not included in the ticket price. Reviewers mentioned that drink prices are reasonable.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, smart casual is a safe choice for an evening cruise—think nice shirts, dresses, or neat casual wear.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 4-10 years and under 120 cm tall are charged at a child rate. Children are generally welcome, but some reviews suggest the experience might be less engaging for very young kids.

What should I do if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the cruise. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The experience can accommodate up to 200 travelers, making it suitable for both small groups and larger parties.

In essence, the River Star Princess Dinner Cruise offers a relaxing, scenic, and culturally enriching way to see Bangkok’s famous landmarks by night. It’s a good blend of value, comfort, and authentic experience, perfect for travelers who want a memorable evening without breaking the bank.