Royal Princess Dinner Cruise: Bangkok Chao Phraya River

Planning a night out in Bangkok often means juggling busy sightseeing schedules with the desire for a memorable, relaxed experience. The Royal Princess Dinner Cruise promises an evening filled with stunning river views, a variety of international dishes, and lively entertainment—all from the comfort of a spacious boat gliding along the iconic Chao Phraya River. While the experience has its charms, it’s worth exploring both the upsides and the potential pitfalls before booking.

One aspect many travelers appreciate is the diversity of the buffet, which includes Thai, Japanese, Western, and international dishes. Coupled with live music and a cabaret show, it offers a lively, engaging atmosphere with plenty of opportunity to enjoy Bangkok’s illuminated skyline. However, some reviews highlight that the cruise can feel a bit rushed or disorganized, especially during boarding and seating. This experience suits those looking for an affordable, easy way to see the city from the water with entertainment, rather than a meticulously curated luxury outing.

Key Points

• Stunning river views of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.
• Diverse buffet options catering to multiple tastes, including Thai, Japanese, and Western cuisines.
• Live entertainment featuring a band and cabaret show that adds to the lively atmosphere.
• Variable organization, with some reviews citing hectic boarding and seating arrangements.
• Good value for money at around $36.66, especially considering the included food, drinks, and entertainment.
• Limited inclusions; no hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

What to Expect from the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point at Asiatique The Riverfront
The cruise kicks off at Asiatique, a buzzing riverside market and entertainment complex. The meeting point is easy to find near public transport, and travelers are advised to check in at least 30 minutes before the 7:30 pm departure. The boat itself is large, with three spacious decks, so finding a good spot isn’t a problem—unless you arrive late or don’t book upstairs, which can mean missing out on some views.

Cruise Along the Chao Phraya River
Once underway, you’ll glide past some of Bangkok’s most celebrated landmarks, like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Kanlayanamit. The commentary is limited, so most travelers rely on the scenery to tell the story. The boat offers excellent vantage points from multiple decks, with many reviews noting that the nighttime skyline creates a breathtaking backdrop.

Stop at Iconic Landmarks
The cruise passes by the Rama VIII Bridge and the Royal Barges National Museum—both free to view from the water. While these stops are scenic, the cruise doesn’t include any stops on land, so the focus remains on the river views and the illuminated temples and palaces.

Dining and Entertainment

Buffet Meal
The meal is buffet-style, with options spanning Thai, Japanese, Western, and international cuisines. Travelers report that the food is more satisfying than expected, with some reviewers describing it as “better than expected” considering the price point. Desserts, hot coffee, and tea are served, and a welcome fruit cocktail adds a refreshing start. One reviewer mentioned that the buffet was “substantial,” making it a good value and enough to satisfy various tastes.

Live Music and Cabaret
Entertainment begins with a live band playing international tunes, creating a lively atmosphere onboard. Many guests enjoyed the music, describing the singer as “making the atmosphere jubilant.” The cabaret show, though not detailed extensively in reviews, adds an extra layer of entertainment, making the evening feel festive.

The Pros and Cons

Pros
– Beautiful nighttime views of Bangkok’s illuminated riverfront and landmarks.
– Good value for the price, especially considering the buffet, drinks, and entertainment included.
– Comfortable decks provide ample space for relaxation and photography.
– Ease of booking through Viator makes scheduling straightforward.

Cons
– Boarding can be hectic, with some reviews describing the process as “sloppy” or “chaotic.”
– Seating arrangements may not always be ideal; some guests found themselves at less desirable tables or unable to secure upstairs seating.
– Limited sightseeing stops, as the cruise mainly offers scenic views rather than onshore activities.
– Potential for disorganization—from check-in to service—especially during busy periods or peak seasons.
– No hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to make their own way to Asiatique.

What Do Reviewers Say?

A range of opinions paints a realistic picture. Some guests, like Karthik, called it a “wonderful experience” and recommended it as a must-do. Others, like dougie_m, felt the cruise was “a bit rushed” and that the good sights zipped past quickly, leaving little time for photos or soaking in the views.

Several reviews mention that the boarding process can be chaotic, with one traveler describing it as “hectic and seemingly haphazard.” On the upside, many appreciated the overall value, noting that the food and entertainment exceeded their expectations for the price.

A few reviewers, like Sandra_P, reported disorganization and poor service, citing issues with check-in, seat allocation, and even the quality of the food. These negative reviews highlight that, while the experience can be enjoyable, it’s not always smooth sailing.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Arrive early—at least 30 minutes before departure—to beat the chaos during boarding and increase your chances of getting a upstairs table for better views.
• Book in advance, especially if you want a specific seating area or to avoid last-minute disappointment.
• Consider travel logistics; since no transfers are included, plan your transportation to Asiatique accordingly.
• Dress smart-casual; the boat can be warm, but an extra layer might be nice, especially if you’ll be on the open decks.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise appeals most to budget-conscious travelers looking for a relaxed evening with good food and impressive views. It suits those who enjoy lively atmospheres, live music, and scenic cityscapes rather than a quiet, intimate dinner. If you’re keen on seeing Bangkok’s iconic riverside landmarks illuminated at night without breaking the bank, this cruise delivers a decent, enjoyable experience.

However, if you’re someone who values seamless organization or prefers a more leisurely pace, you might find the logistical hiccups and rushed feel less appealing. It’s also a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting to tick off a classic Bangkok activity without the hefty price tag.

The Sum Up

The Royal Princess Dinner Cruise offers a solid balance of affordability and visual spectacle. For around $36.66, you get a buffet dinner, live entertainment, and the chance to see Bangkok from its most photogenic angle—on the river at night. The experience’s highlight is undeniably the breathtaking views of the city’s luminous temples and bridges, which make it a memorable outing for many.

While some reviewers point out issues with organization and seating, these are often overshadowed by the overall enjoyment of the scenery and the lively atmosphere onboard. It’s a relaxed, casual way to spend an evening in Bangkok, especially if you’re not looking for a high-end cruise but more a fun, scenic night out.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who prioritize value, engaging entertainment, and stunning visuals over perfection in logistics. If you’re prepared for a slightly chaotic start and a few crowded moments, you’ll find this experience worthwhile, especially for a first-time visitor wanting to tick off a quintessential Bangkok activity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the cruise departs from Asiatique The Riverfront, so you need to arrange your own transportation.

What is the start time?
The cruise begins at 7:30 pm, with check-in advised at least 30 minutes early.

Can I choose a specific seating area?
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, but booking in advance increases your chances of securing a higher deck or better spot.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
The review mentions a vegetarian meal was arranged upon request, so special dietary needs might be accommodated if communicated beforehand.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the buffet dinner, one welcome fruit cocktail, live band music, cabaret show, and refreshments like coffee, tea, and desserts.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children aged 4-10 and under 120 cm tall are charged at a child rate. Younger children might need to be supervised closely.

Is the experience suitable for couples?
Absolutely. The romantic sights of Bangkok’s lit-up skyline make this a popular choice for couples.

What if it rains?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, a different date or full refund will be offered.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

This Bangkok dinner cruise offers an entertaining, scenic, and reasonably priced way to end a day of sightseeing. Just keep in mind the organizational quirks and arrive early for the best experience. Whether you’re watching the sunset fade into city lights or simply enjoying good food and music, it’s a relaxing way to see the city from a new perspective.