Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise at Bangkok Admission Ticket (SHA Plus)

Taking a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River is a popular way to see Bangkok from a different vantage point, and the Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to do just that. Priced at around $49.69 per person, this experience combines a scenic river journey, a generous buffet, and some live music—making it a solid choice for those wanting an evening out that mixes sightseeing, good food, and relaxed entertainment.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is its accessibility and the opportunity to see some of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks from the water—like the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple—without the hassle of navigating busy streets. The onboard buffet, featuring both Thai classics and international options, is another highlight, offering variety for different tastes. However, it’s worth noting that this cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers, and it isn’t available on certain peak days like Loy Kathong, Valentine’s, New Year’s, or Christmas Eve, which might be a consideration for some travelers.

This experience fits best for travelers who enjoy scenic, laid-back evenings and want to combine sightseeing with a delicious meal. It suits couples, families, and even groups of friends looking for an easy way to enjoy Bangkok’s ambiance from the river. If you’re seeking an authentic cultural experience or a more immersive tour, you might want to explore other options; but for a straightforward, enjoyable night out, this cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just under $50, this cruise offers good value for a scenic dinner experience.
• Iconic Views: See Bangkok’s landmarks like the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha from the water.
• Varied Buffet: The gourmet buffet includes Thai dishes and international treats suitable for different tastes.
• Live Music: The onboard band plays throwback tunes from the 1980s and ’90s, adding a nostalgic vibe.
• Convenient Schedule: Departure at 7:30 pm with a 2-hour 20-minute round trip makes it a manageable evening activity.
• SHA Plus Certified: The operation follows Covid-19 health protocols, offering peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Arrival

You’ll need to book your tickets at least five days in advance, which is a good idea during peak seasons to secure your spot. The check-in process at Terminal 21 Pier begins at 7:00 pm, giving you ample time to arrive, check in, and settle before departure at 7:30 pm. The location is accessible via Bangkok’s Skytrain; you can get off at Surasak Station and hop on a shuttle bus every 15 minutes, making the journey straightforward even if you’re unfamiliar with the city.

The Cruise Itinerary and Landmarks

Once aboard the Chao Phraya Princess, the cruise glides smoothly along the river, offering views of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. The cruise lasts approximately two hours, a perfect window to appreciate the city’s nighttime beauty without feeling rushed. Expect to see the glittering facades of the Grand Palace, the majestic Emerald Buddha Temple, and other historic sites illuminated against the night sky.

Travelers who have reviewed similar experiences often comment on how the water level gives a different perspective: “Seeing the Grand Palace lit up from the river makes it feel even more grand,” one reviewer noted. It’s a peaceful, scenic way to take in the city’s skyline without the congestion of street-level touring.

Dining Experience

The buffet is the centerpiece of this cruise, and it’s more than just a simple meal. The spread includes various Thai dishes that highlight local flavors, alongside international options, ensuring there’s something for all. The reviews mention that “the food was surprisingly good and plentiful,” and that the variety meant even picky eaters found something to enjoy.

The buffet setup is laid out for easy self-service, and you can take your plate to the open-air deck to enjoy the view while eating. The quality and presentation tend to be above basic cruise fare, making this a worthwhile feature. It’s important to note that no alcohol is included, but you are free to bring your own.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The onboard live band plays throwback hits, creating a relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere. The music adds a fun soundtrack to your evening, and many guests mention that the tunes helped set a lively tone for the cruise. The band’s repertoire is mostly from the 1980s and ’90s, appealing to those who enjoy classic hits.

The overall ambiance is casual and family-friendly, with many couples, groups, and even solo travelers enjoying the experience. Some reviews mentioned that “the music wasn’t too loud, so you could still chat,” which is ideal for those wanting a laid-back, social evening.

Practical Considerations

Since the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Terminal 21 Pier. The timing is structured to make the most of your evening—check-in at 7 pm, departure at 7:30 pm, and return around 9:30 pm—so plan accordingly.

The cruise is not available on key dates like Loy Kathong, Valentine’s Day, or during the Christmas and New Year’s period, which is worth noting if you’re planning your trip around those days. Plus, the experience is not suitable for those looking for a private, intimate setting or a highly immersive cultural tour, but it offers a fun, scenic, and reasonably priced night out.

The Value Proposition

At $49.69, this cruise provides an enjoyable combination of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment. It’s a good deal compared to private boat tours or more elaborate dinner cruises, especially considering the views and the variety offered. The fact that it operates with safety protocols in place (SHA Plus certification) also adds to its appeal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed evening with picturesque views of Bangkok’s illuminated landmarks. It’s suitable for couples celebrating a special night out, families seeking a fun activity, or groups of friends looking to enjoy live music and good food in an easy, no-fuss setting. If you’re after an authentic cultural experience or a private boat adventure, this may not be the ideal choice. However, if you appreciate good value, scenic viewing, and a lively atmosphere, this cruise ticks those boxes.

It’s especially suited for those new to Bangkok who want to quickly see the city’s key sights from the water without committing to a longer or more expensive tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included with this cruise?
No, the experience does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Terminal 21 Pier.

What days is this cruise available?
The cruise is not applicable on Loy KATHONG, Valentine’s, New Year’s, and Christmas Eve. During these times, surcharges may be applied or the experience may be unavailable.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 2 hours, from 7:30 pm to around 9:30 pm, providing a comfortable window to enjoy the sights and meal.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and welcomes travelers of all ages, making it a good outing for families or groups with kids.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
While the buffet offers a variety of Thai and international dishes, specific dietary accommodations aren’t mentioned. It’s best to contact the provider if you have special requirements.

What do reviews say about the food and music?
Guests mention that the food was “surprisingly good and plentiful,” and the live band’s throwback tunes added to the relaxed ambiance, with some noting that “the music wasn’t too loud, so you could still chat” — perfect for socializing.

Final Thoughts

The Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Bangkok’s famous riverside landmarks in a relaxed setting. The combination of scenic views, a tasty buffet, and nostalgic live music makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers. It’s not a formal, high-end experience, but rather a fun, value-packed evening activity that captures some of the city’s magic from the water.

For those who want a hassle-free way to enjoy the city’s illuminated skyline while dining on good food and listening to music, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s particularly suitable for visitors seeking a memorable but affordable night out without the fuss of complex arrangements or high prices. Just remember to plan your transportation and check the calendar for blackout dates to ensure your perfect evening on the river.