Ocean Pattaya Dinner Buffet Cruise

Taking a cruise for dinner might sound romantic or fun, but as with many such experiences, the details matter—and not all cruises are created equal. The Ocean Pattaya Dinner Buffet Cruise offers an evening of dining, entertainment, and views that promise a memorable night, but travelers should keep their expectations balanced. With a little planning, you can enjoy some gorgeous scenery and tasty food, but be aware of potential drawbacks like crowded conditions and the authenticity of the experience.

What we do like about this cruise is the breathtaking sunset views over Pattaya’s coastline, which truly can be a highlight of the evening. The variety of international and local dishes served in the buffet is another plus—there’s a good range of seafood and local specialties that cater to a broad palate. Plus, the live crew performances add a lively touch that elevates the overall atmosphere. On the flip side, some find the experience less polished, citing issues like the difficulty in locating the boat and the crowded environment.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, family-friendly evening or a romantic outing with scenic water views, this cruise could work reasonably well. However, it may not satisfy travelers expecting a smooth, high-end dinner experience or those looking for exclusive privacy. Read on for a detailed look at what this tour involves—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Breathtaking sunset views over Pattaya’s coastline make for memorable photos.
• The buffet offers a wide variety of international and local dishes, mainly seafood.
• Live entertainment onboard adds energy and fun to the cruise.
• The experience can be crowded and somewhat rushed, according to reviews.
• Finding the meeting point at Bali Hai Pier might be tricky without clear signage.
• The cruise is best suited for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a relaxing evening on water.
• The price of $76 includes food, entertainment, and transfers but may lack exclusivity or luxury.
• Expect a ferry-like ride with over 45 passengers, which can feel busy and informal.

An in-Depth Look at the Ocean Pattaya Dinner Buffet Cruise

The Experience: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour’s core offering is a 1 hour 30 minute cruise on a watercraft that departs from Bali Hai Pier. The package includes speedboat transfer to the boat, the all-you-can-eat buffet, snacks, fruits, water, and cola, along with live performances by the crew. A guide is provided in person to help guests navigate the start of their evening.

The buffet features a variety of international dishes and local favorites, with the emphasis perhaps leaning toward catering to Japanese and Chinese travelers, as one review notes. You’ll find seafood prominently featured—crab, shrimp, and fish—plus a mix of other cuisines. The food is described as decent but not extraordinary, and some reviewers mention feeling rushed while trying to get their food, which can be a disappointment if you’re hoping for a leisurely dine.

The Scenic Highlights: Sunset and Views

One of the main draws is the panoramic water views and the opportunity to watch the sunset over Pattaya’s coastline. As the boat glides across the water, the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and pinks—an ideal moment for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Reviewers highlight that the sunset views are stunning, and the water’s shimmering surface adds to the overall ambiance.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Live performances by the crew are meant to add excitement—some describe lively music and performances that lift the mood. However, reviews suggest that the crowd can be quite dense, with over 45 passengers onboard, making the atmosphere more bustling than intimate. The entertainment is generally described as amusing but not necessarily elaborate or professionally produced.

Logistics and Practicalities

Getting to the departure point, Bali Hai Pier, may pose some challenges. Reviewers mention difficulty in finding signs or assistance, which could frustrate some travelers. The tour’s description states that most travelers can participate, but the experience might feel crowded, especially during peak times. The boat is more of a ferry than a speedboat, and with over 45 people onboard, it can sometimes feel cramped.

The group size limit of 45 travelers means you’ll likely be part of a lively, social group, but not an exclusive one. For some, this adds to the fun; for others, it may detract from a feeling of peaceful intimacy.

What Reviewers Say (In Their Own Words)

A reviewer named Sigentry describes the experience as “interesting”, but points out that finding the cruise is a nightmare—no clear signs, no help, just asking around. They also note the buffet is “decent, nothing exceptional,” and the crowd is quite dense. This suggests that if you prefer well-organized, quieter evenings, this cruise might not meet your expectations.

James_B’s review is quite negative, citing poor service and confusion at the dock. They mention pre-paying but being rejected upon arrival, and it took over an hour to sort out the issue, which could be a red flag for travelers expecting smooth logistics. Their experience emphasizes the importance of arriving early and being prepared for potential hiccups.

Caroline_B shares that the experience might be more enjoyable with friends rather than family, noting that the ferry is crowded, and the food felt rushed. She suggests that the description doesn’t fully capture what to expect, primarily emphasizing that it’s more of a crowded ferry ride with buffet dining rather than an elegant cruise.

Is it Worth It? An Honest Look at Value

At $76 per person, you get a combination of transportation, food, entertainment, and scenic views. This can be a fair price for a relaxed evening out, but it’s not a luxurious experience. The value depends on what you’re seeking: if you want to enjoy a beautiful sunset, a good variety of food, and lively entertainment, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re after tranquility, exclusivity, or gourmet dining, this isn’t the right fit.

The crowded atmosphere and the less polished logistics may turn off those expecting a more seamless experience. Still, for travelers who enjoy lively group settings and don’t mind a bit of hustle, it can be a fun way to spend an evening.

The Sum Up

The Ocean Pattaya Dinner Buffet Cruise offers a solid, if somewhat informal, way to enjoy Pattaya’s coastline. The breathtaking sunset views and the diverse buffet stand out as main highlights. It’s ideal for families or groups looking for a relaxed, social experience with scenic water views and lively entertainment.

However, it’s important to go into this with realistic expectations—it’s a busy, casual cruise, not a luxury dinner. The logistics can be tricky, and the experience might feel rushed or crowded, especially during peak times. If you value beautiful scenery, good food, and a fun, communal atmosphere, this cruise could be a memorable part of your trip.

Those seeking peaceful, high-end dining or exclusivity will want to consider other options. This experience suits travelers who are flexible, enjoy lively settings, and are happy to embrace a somewhat bustling, informal cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour includes a speedboat transfer from Bali Hai Pier to the cruise ship, making it simple to start your evening without extra hassle.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the meal, views, and entertainment without feeling rushed.

Is the buffet meal included?
Yes, the price covers a buffet featuring international and local dishes, seafood, fruits, and snacks. Be prepared for some items to cater more toward Asian tastes.

Are there live performances onboard?
Yes, the crew presents live entertainment, including music and performances designed to add a lively touch to your evening.

Is the experience crowded?
Yes, reviews indicate that the boat can hold over 45 passengers, leading to a bustling, lively environment. Some guests find it crowded and rushed.

How do I find the meeting point?
The departure point is Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya, but some travelers report difficulty locating signs or assistance—arriving early and asking around helps.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate. Since you’re outdoors and on water, bring layers and be prepared for potentially breezy conditions during sunset.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In essence, the Ocean Pattaya Dinner Buffet Cruise is a lively, scenic option that offers good value for relaxed, social evenings. It might not be the most polished experience, but it does deliver beautiful views, tasty food, and fun entertainment—perfect for those wanting a casual night on the water.