Our team had a quick holiday in Thailand, and we felt that it wouldn’t have been complete without our dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River. With our own money, we booked tickets for this luxurious three-deck ship that comes with a 2-hour buffet, live performances, and a scenic route that showcases Bangkok. Unlike other river cruises, this one was more elegant and spacious, and we loved our overall experience. If you want to know more and see more reviews for the Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise that we booked, click here.

In a nutshell
- What are the most popular dinner cruises? Booked more than 300,000 times on Klook, the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise is the top seller. Here tourists enjoy a wide variety of local and international dishes as well as up to five performances that reflect Thai artistry. Another popular and affordable option is this Bangkok dinner cruise booked by 100k+ tourists.
- Are there more exclusive and high-end options? Sightseeing river cruises on the Chao Phraya are one of the most popular activities in Bangkok. Hence, as many reviews show, you can expect a lot of people on board. If you want to avoid large crowds and have a more comfortable experience with your friends, family, or significant other, you can reserve any of these three options: this luxury dinner cruise with a 4-course meal, the upper deck of Princess Cruise, or the Opulence Luxury Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise, which is the one my team and I booked.
- How much to book a Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise? On average, tickets cost $30 per person. This price typically includes an all-you-can-eat international buffet for 2 hours. If you want to save money, you can book this river cruise and enjoy 25% off when you book for 4 people.
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Dinner Cruise Experience at Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River
My team and I decided to hop aboard a Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise on our first night in Thailand. It seemed fitting for two reasons: we could enjoy a buffet feast that showcases a range of Thai dishes and get an overview of the city’s attractions through the sightseeing cruise.
We were happy with our experience. The Opulence Cruise, which was picked by most of us on team Travlists (my co-founder wanted to book the more intimate Saffron Cruise), gave us an excellent first impression of Bangkok. Not only were we able to take in the charm of Chao Phraya, the country’s historic and significant river, but we also enjoyed an intimate night filled with good food (loved the fresh seafood), live entertainment, and a relaxing ambiance.
I read reviews from tourists saying that taking the river cruises in Bangkok made them a bit dizzy (caused motion sickness) and that the ship can get too crowded, especially on weekends. Because of this feedback, I admit I wasn’t expecting too much with the experience. However, I believe I speak for everyone on my team when I say that it was an overall memorable experience and I would definitely recommend taking a Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise when you visit Bangkok. (If you ever had severe sea sickness, you can also consult a medical professional about the best tablets you can take.)
Best Chao Phraya River Cruises with Dinner Buffet
The following is our team’s shortlist and photo review of the popular river cruises for tourists. We hope this helps you book the perfect option for your trip.
1. Chao Phraya Princess Cruise
Bangkok’s bestselling river cruise

Booked more than 300k times, the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise is the most popular among tourists. It checks a lot of boxes: affordable tickets, organized boarding, friendly and attentive staff, delicious food, and, enlivening performances. The cruise sails on the river for 2 hours and will show you Bangkok’s stunning attractions like the Wat Arun, Wat Kanlaya, Rama Vill Bridge, Memorial Bridge, and Asiatique The Riverfront, among others.
In terms of the food selections or dinner menu at the Princess Cruise, you can feast on local dishes like Pad Thai, Thai Massaman Curry with Chicken, and Tom Yum Kung Soup. They also serve river shrimp, New Zealand mussels, grilled lemongrass chicken, tenderloin steak, and their signature Thai fried rice with eggs.
If you are considering to book the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise, I would suggest getting a seat on the Upper Deck. This is the premium option and more expensive than the standard option, but it has a larger dining space with many good seats for taking photos of the landmarks. (Depending on the boat, the Lower Deck has 110-180 seats while the Upper Deck has 140-270 seats.)
- PRICE: Book here from $32
- OPTIONS:
- Dinner Cruise at Asiatique Pier: 7:30pm-9:30pm
- Dinner Cruise at Asiatique Pier: 7:30pm-9:30pm (Upper Deck)
- Dinner Cruise at ICONSIAM Pier: 7:30pm-9:30pm
- Dinner Cruise at ICONSIAM Pier: 7:30pm-9:30pm (Upper Deck)
- Dinner Cruise at ICONSIAM Pier: 8pm-10pm
- Grand Palace, Wat Arun, & Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Tour Package
- Bangkok Safari World, Chocolate Ville, & Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Package
- INCLUSIONS: Free birthday cake for celebrants, 2-hour cruise, English-speaking staff, international buffet, and live performances
- TAKE NOTE: Check-in is available 1.5 hours before the departure time. We recommend checking as early as possible to avoid huge crowds.
- BEST REVIEW: “The boat is…spacious. [The] staff [was accommodating] and friendly. [The] food [was] so [delicious]… lots of choices and big servings. The [performers were] so talented and… we [were] able to see the historical or tourist spots like temples,” reads a review for the Chao Phraya River Cruise on Klook.
2. Chao Phraya White Orchid Cruise
With open-air deck and Cabaret performances

DEAL: Book for 4 pax, and get an extra 25% discount. Valid until May 1, 2025 only. Learn more or see other offers ➜
When it comes to partying on the Chao Phraya, no other river cruise does it better than White Orchid. Featuring nightly Cabaret performances, free-flowing beer, and an open-air deck that boasts 360-degree panoramic views, this fleet is perfect for friends and couples looking for a memorable night out in Bangkok.
Like most, the White Orchid River Cruise offers a 2-hour voyage on the Chao Phraya, showcasing landmarks like Wat Kanlayanamit Woramahawihan, The Grand Palace, River City Bangkok, and others. However, this operator offers two fleets that travelers can choose from: the standard Chao Phraya White Orchid Cruise and the more chic Luxury White Dinner Cruise. Both are three-decker river cruises, but the Luxury White has a more modern finish. (As you may find in the photo reviews here, most tourists booked the standard ship that offered the classic river cruise experience. If you don’t mind the bit outdated fleet, this would be a good choice. Otherwise, you will love the Luxury White ship.)
For the dinner buffet, the White Orchid’s menu specials are their river shrimp, sashimi, sushi, and crab fried rice. They also serve salmon soup, Pad Thai, Hong Kong-style fried noodles, Massaman Chicken, pasta, fried fish in tamarind sauce, and a variety of desserts.
- PRICE: Book here from $26.49
- OPTIONS:
- Chao Phraya White Orchid Cruise: Dinner (Cruising Time: 19:45-21:45)
- The Luxury White Dinner Cruise: Dinner (Cruising Time: 20:15-22:15)
- INCLUSIONS:
- Chao Phraya White Orchid Cruise: 2-hour cruise, dinner buffet, free-flowing beer, Cabaret Show, live performances, & free birthday cake for celebrants
- The Luxury White Dinner Cruise: 2-hour cruise, welcome drink, free-flowing beer, Cabaret Show, & live performances
- BEST REVIEW: “…It has three floors, [and there is air-conditioning in] the boat… the food on the boat [was] also delicious, including ice cream and all-you-can-drink beer. It’s a pity that I don’t drink beer. Fortunately, hot tea and hot coffee are provided.”
3. The Opulence Cruise
Bespoke Chao Phraya river cruise


True to its name, The Opulence is an elegant and modern cruise with a feel of exclusivity. It is not only one of the newest Chao Phraya river cruises with dinner in Bangkok; it is also the largest with a seating capacity of up to 770 guests. Many locals that we talked to consider the three-tiered Opulence as the preferred sightseeing vessel. Family gatherings, social banquets, and corporate events are typically held here. For tourists like us, the Opulence is an upscale yet affordable option that offers a more comfortable buffet-on-water experience. This is something that our team vibed to, which is why we chose to book this ship.
With an HACCP certification, the kitchen behind The Opulence takes pride in their food. I could say that there was a lot of thought and care that went into the preparation and presentation. The dinner spread was delicious and satisfying, especially the Thai choices. Not all of the dishes were of my liking, but for a buffet made for hundreds of people, I could say it was of above-average quality.
Below is the dinner menu of The Opulence Cruise in Bangkok (subject to change depending on the season):
Appetizers | Nicoise Salad, Hawaiian Salad, Assorted Canape, Thai-style Glass Noodle Salad |
Soup | Tom Yum River Prawn Soup & Creamy Potato Soup |
Japanese Zone | Sushi & Sashimi |
Seafood on Ice | River Prawns & New Zealand Mussels |
Grilled Seafood & Steak | Grilled Prawns & Meat |
Mains | Beef Stew, Fried Fish with Lemon Sauce, Lasagna, Spaghetti, Chicken Nanban, Green Curry with Chicken, Pad Thai with Prawns, Stir-fried Beef with Kimchi, Fried Rice, & White Rice |
Dessert | Fruits, cakes, ice cream, and traditional Thai sweets |
Aside from the food, other things that stood out in our experience were the hospitable staff and live performances. I also liked how there is a space on the Upper Deck that is reserved for sightseeing. It was good to be able to take photos of the Chao Phraya and other attractions without having to disturb anyone who was having a meal.
- PRICE: Book here from $53.49
- OPTION: Dinner Cruise at ICONSIAM Pier: 08:00 PM – 10:15 PM
- INCLUSIONS: 2-hour cruise, Thai and international dinner buffet, welcome drink, coffee and tea, live performance, and free birthday cake on the celebrant’s birthday month
- BEST REVIEW: “The Opulence is one of the best dining cruises you can book, especially since the ship is still pretty new. This ship is really much bigger than the Princess… if you are looking for a cruise experience, you will not be disappointed… [The food] was excellent… they had roast beef, river prawns, salmon sashimi, and more…”
4. Saffron Cruise by Banyan Tree Bangkok
Luxurious ship with signature 4-course meal

Saffron is cruise ship royalty, a luxurious vessel that commands the River of Kings. The classy interior delights the senses, with arching windows that dramatically reveal Bangkok’s most photographed landmarks. The dim lights nurture a space of intimacy, and the warmth of the attendants brings out the soul of Saffron. There is no denying that the ship is of Banyan Tree.
While the essence of Saffron is to give a tour of the Chao Phraya, the concept is unlike others. With no buffet-style feasts and retro-style dance parties, you can expect an elevated gourmet experience and a relaxing three-hour voyage. On deck, you will be served a four-course meal curated by the creative chefs at Banyan Tree (click here to see the latest menu). While other ships boast of a vast open-air deck, Saffron Cruise has a cozy bar with a nice Sky Bridge where you can take in the charm of the city’s top attractions.
If you are looking for the finest dining experience on the Chao Phraya, this 3-hour dinner cruise is the one to book.
- PRICE: Book here from $93.59 (vs. regular price of $98)
- PROMO CODE: Reserve here with our Klook promo code TRAVLISTS to get up to 8% discount
- INCLUSIONS: 3-hour cruise on the Chao Phraya River and 4-course set menu (vegetarian and kids’ options available)
- BEST REVIEW: “The most unforgettable thing [in our trip] was the Banyan Tree cruise experience. The atmosphere was great, the dinner was delicious… and the service was first-class… It is especially suitable for couples [who want to] enjoy 3 hours of romantic time together.”
5. Manohra Dinner Cruise in Bangkok
Thai heritage meets indulgent local cookery

There are two things that make Manohra an excellent choice: the unique fleet of restored rice barges and a prix fixe menu that puts the spotlight on Thai flavors. Manohra has three antique ships, each one a century-old rice barge that recreates history. They sail along the Chao Phraya and present the Taksin Bridge, The Old Customs House, The Rosary Church, and the Grand Palace from a different perspective. The river cruises are not huge nor modern; they are of Thai heritage. With a seating capacity of only 30-60 people, this is the perfect option for couples and honeymooners.
When it comes to the menu at Manohra Dinner Cruise, they typically serve grilled prawn salad, chicken soup with coconut broth, charcoal-grilled striploin, codfish, and Mango sticky rice. (Click here to see the most recent menu.) The course-menu is perfect to those who are looking to celebrate an anniversary, Christmas, or Valentine’s Day in Thailand.
- PRICE: Book here from $85.79
- OPTIONS:
- INCLUSIONS: 2-hour cruise on the Chao Phraya River, set menu, and English-speaking service
- BEST REVIEW: “It was a very good experience. I was very satisfied with the itinerary, [food,] and service. There were eight tables on the whole ship. Unlike other cruise ships with dozens or hundreds of people, everyone was fully enjoying the scenery… it was very quiet. [The food] was delicious,” reads a review for Manohra Cruise.
6. The Meridian Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise
Budget-friendly with promotions for families and friends

DEAL: Book for 4 pax, and get an extra 25% discount. Valid until November 1, 2025 only. Learn more or see other offers ➜
The Meridian Dinner Cruise is another popular option among families, with more than 100k bookings on Klook. They offer affordable rates starting at around $26.6 per person (their sunset cruise starts at $17), and you can get a 25% discount if you book for 4 pax here.
While cheaper than most options, the Meridian offers the full river cruise experience: a 2-hour voyage on the Chao Phraya River, a Thai and international dinner buffet, and live entertainment. Their fleet also departs from ICONSIAM Pier 2, which is right across the iconic shopping mall. This is perfect if you want to spend the day shopping or touring and end the night on a fun party vessel.
Another good thing about booking The Meridian is that you can select if you want to dine on the Front Deck or Open-Air deck. This guarantees that you get your preferred seats on the boat.
- PRICE: Book here from $26.59
- OPTIONS:
- INCLUSIONS: 2-hour Chao Phraya River Cruise, dinner buffet, live music, Thai classical performance, free birthday cake, and softdrinks
- BEST REVIEW: “The cruise is relatively simple compared to other [cruises] in Bangkok, but the staff and food are excellent. It’s a great experience with a variety of delicious dishes [at an] affordable price… The atmosphere was lively with live music…”
7. The Legacy Chao Phraya River Private Yacht
Private Chao Phraya river cruise with dinner

Finally, if you want to throw a party, a casual corporate gathering, or just want to have a private cruising experience in Bangkok, consider The Legacy. This stylish yacht — one of the newest vessels to sail the Chao Phraya — offers packages ideal for 20-30 people (around $83-88 per person). You can choose to have a package with a gourmet set menu or light canapes. If you want to save money, you can also use our Klook promo code TRAVLISTS here to get an extra 3-8% off on your booking.
- PRICE: Book here from $1,775
- OPTIONS:
- INCLUSIONS: 2-hour Chao Phraya River Cruise, choice of free-flowing canapes or set menu (Western or Thai cuisine), cocktails or wine, softdrinks, and mocktails
- The River Cafe & Terrace at The Peninsula Bangkok (200+ booked)
- Riverside Terrace at Anantara Riverside Bangkok (50+ booked)
- Sirimahannop Asiatique The Riverfront (50+ booked)
- Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Maeklong Railway & Amphawa Day Tour (200k+ booked)
- Floating Market Half Day Tour With Boat Ride (30k+ booked)
- Private Floating Market Day Tour by AK Travel (10k+ booked)
- DIORA Luxe Sukhumvit Spa (20k+ booked)
- One More Thai Massage (60k+ booked)
- Let’s Relax Spa at Central World (300k+ booked)
Chao Phraya River Cruise: Dinner vs. Sunset Cruise
Aside from dinner cruises, which typically run between 7:30-10pm, tourists in Bangkok can also enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the Chao Phraya river. This option is typically offered between 5pm-6:30pm and are more affordable than the dinner cruises. The food spread on sunset cruises is typically not as full as the dinner cruise, but you can still enjoy a good time basking on the golden hour views of the city.
Here are the best Chao Phraya sunset river cruises:
- Meridian River Cruise from $17.7 (with welcome drink)
- White Orchid Cruise from $21 (with free-flowing beer)
- Royal Galaxy Cruise from $25 (with free-flowing beer)
- Princess Cruise from $25 (with free-flowing beer)