Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok

A Complete Guide to the Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok

Trying to capture the magic of Bangkok at night? The Smile Riverside Cruise offers a relaxing way to see the city’s most famous landmarks while enjoying a sumptuous buffet and live performances. This two-hour journey along the Chao Phraya River merges scenic views with fine dining, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking a memorable evening.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines luxury and culture in a relaxed setting—you get to take in the city’s glittering temples, bridges, and skyline while savoring a variety of international and seafood dishes. Plus, the open deck options mean you can stand under the stars or cozy up in the air-conditioned cabin, depending on your mood and the weather.

A potential drawback? The cruise can be affected by the tides, meaning some landmarks might be less visible during certain times. Also, while the buffet is extensive, some may find it slightly generic compared to local street food options. Still, for those after a balanced blend of sightseeing, entertainment, and comfort, this cruise fits the bill well. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting a special evening in Bangkok without the hassle of navigating the city at night.

Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a lover of scenic views combined with good food and live entertainment, this cruise is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited to travelers wanting a relaxed yet luxurious experience that offers a different perspective of Bangkok’s skyline. It’s also a great way for first-timers to see major landmarks without the fuss of city traffic or multiple bookings.

Key Points

• Stunning Nighttime Views: Iconic sights like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Rama VIII Bridge are beautifully illuminated, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
• Delicious Buffet: The extensive menu features fresh seafood, international dishes, and Thai desserts, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
• Comfortable Options: Dine either on an open deck under the stars or inside a cozy air-conditioned cabin—great versatility for weather and preference.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music and traditional Thai performances, including classical dances, adding a cultural touch to your evening.
• Cultural Stops: The cruise includes stops at key cultural spots like River City Bangkok and ICONSIAM, enriching your sightseeing experience.
• Value for Money: At around $35 per person, the experience offers a good balance of scenic beauty, entertainment, and dining, especially considering the included live shows and multiple stops.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting Point and Timing

Starting from ICONSIAM Pier at 7:15 pm, the cruise sets off into the evening. Most travelers find this timing perfect for catching both sunset views (if weather permits) and the city lights coming alive. The meeting point at ICONSIAM, with its luxury shopping and cultural offerings, is convenient for visitors already exploring the riverside.

The cruise lasts about two hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience. The group size can go up to 320 guests, which means the boat is spacious enough to feel comfortable without feeling crowded. The tour offers a mobile ticket, simplifying the process of arrival and check-in.

Detailed Itinerary and Landmark Highlights

River City Bangkok is the first stop. Known for its art galleries and antique shops, it’s a hub for art lovers. Here, you might enjoy a quick stroll before heading back onto the boat, or simply take in the views from the riverfront. From this vantage point, the city’s riverside charm is immediately evident.

Next, the boat moves to ICONSIAM, Bangkok’s premier luxury shopping and cultural complex. Its striking design and vibrant SookSiam market make it a must-visit spot, blending modern architecture with traditional Thai elements. While the main tour focus is the cruise, many guests appreciate the chance to admire this iconic building from the water.

Siriraj Pimukhsthan Museum offers a more educational stop. It showcases Thailand’s medical history through interactive exhibits and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the country’s scientific progress and cultural health traditions.

The cruise then passes by Wat Arun—the Temple of Dawn. Its towering spire decorated with colorful porcelain makes it a highlight, especially as it’s beautifully lit at night. Many reviewers say the views here are breathtaking, perfect for photos.

The Grand Palace is another major site visible from the river. Although tours typically don’t stop here on the cruise, the sight of this gilded complex illuminated at night adds to the magic of the experience.

Meanwhile, Rama VIII Bridge stands out as an architectural masterpiece. Its elegant, cable-stayed design and golden spire are especially striking at sunset or when lit at night, making it a favorite for photographers.

Finally, as the cruise nears the end at Asiatique, the lively riverside night market and entertainment complex provide a lively backdrop. It’s a perfect spot to explore after the cruise or to grab a snack if you want to extend your evening.

Dining and Entertainment

The buffet is what truly elevates this cruise. Priced at around $34.80, it offers a wide selection—everything from fresh salmon sashimi and grilled river prawns to baked mussels with butter. The menu also includes Thai dishes like spicy prawn soup, papaya salad, and various salads, ensuring a balance of familiar and exotic flavors.

For dessert, you’ll find Thai sweets, assorted cakes, seasonal fruits, and specialty desserts like Tubtim Krob and Lod Chong. The inclusion of hot coffee and tea and pouring water adds to the comfort of the experience.

The live music band provides a lively soundtrack, while a traditional Thai classical performance adds a cultural dimension. Reviewer Watchara_K mentioned the “amazing views,” “tasty seafood,” and “live music and Thai dancing,” which together create a vibrant, festive atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

The cruise is accessible near public transportation, making it easy to reach the meeting point. Children aged 1-3 are free but must be accompanied by an adult, and children aged 4-10 benefit from a discounted rate. The tour is not suitable for those seeking alcohol, as beverages are not included, and personal expenses and gratuities are additional.

The cruise can be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, with full refunds available if notified in advance. It’s worth noting that high or low tides can influence which landmarks are visible, so some scenic views might vary depending on the day.

Final Thoughts

The Smile Riverside Cruise offers a pleasant blend of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment. It’s a relaxed way to see Bangkok’s riverside landmarks illuminated at night without the hassle of navigating busy streets or booking multiple tours. The buffet’s variety ensures that most guests will find something to enjoy, and the live performances add a special touch that elevates the experience.

While the experience is not overly exclusive, its value lies in the combination of stunning panoramic views, cultural performances, and delicious food—all within a well-organized, comfortable setting. It’s especially suited for those wanting a flexible yet elegant evening activity, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wishing to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances visual splendor, culinary delights, and a taste of Thai culture, this cruise is a delightful choice. It provides a unique perspective of Bangkok that many travelers cherish long after the night ends.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 1-3 can join for free if accompanied by a paying adult. Children aged 4-10 get a discounted rate, making it family-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the luxury buffet dinner, welcome drink, hot coffee/tea, water, live music, and Thai classical performances. Personal expenses and alcohol are not included.

Can I choose to dine outside on the open deck?
Yes, you can opt for dining under the stars on the open deck, which many guests find more atmospheric, especially on clear nights.

What are the main landmarks viewed during the cruise?
Expect views of Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, Rama VIII Bridge, and the vibrant riverside scenes of ICONSIAM and Asiatique.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 2 hours, providing a relaxed yet comprehensive river tour.

Is the tour affected by tides?
Yes, high or low tides might limit visibility of certain landmarks, but the cruise will still operate as scheduled.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 12 days in advance, ensuring availability, especially during peak seasons.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The tour caters to all dietary requirements, including allergies and intolerances, with prior notice.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate. Bring a light jacket if you prefer to dine outside, especially during cooler evenings.

To sum it up, the Smile Riverside Cruise offers a fine balance of scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and culinary pleasure — all within a comfortable setting. It’s an experience designed to showcase Bangkok’s night-time charm while providing guests with a memorable, hassle-free evening. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone keen to enjoy the city’s illuminated skyline with a touch of luxury.