The Chao Phraya River flows through the heart of Bangkok, passing by historic temples, winding between modern skyscrapers, and splashing against the wooden stilts of slum houses. A boat trip along this river offers a remarkable perspective of Bangkok, showcasing its diversity and allowing you to see the city's main attractions. In this article, I will guide you on which boats to use, the best routes to take, and how to purchase discounted tickets. You will learn about tourist boats, public water transport in Bangkok, excursions along the city's vibrant canals, and impressive dinner cruises with shows.
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Things to Do in Bangkok eSim with Unlimited Data Plans Taxi from or to Bangkok Airports
Brief History of Bangkok's Water Transport
Before the first roads were built in Bangkok between 1862 and 1964, the Chao Phraya River and its network of canals, known as "klongs," were the city's main transport routes. Locals used these waterways as roads for transporting people and goods, and for bustling market trade on the water.
Today, the Chao Phraya River remains a vital transport channel, evident from the numerous barges, ships, and boats navigating Thailand's largest river. In addition to the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is crisscrossed with canals where long wooden boats, akin to water buses, zoom by. For locals, a boat ride is as routine as a subway or bus trip is for us.
Tips: Consider booking a room in a hotel along the Chao Phraya River for stunning views. You can find these hotels on booking.com by selecting the Riverside area.
Chao Phraya Tourist Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Boats
Chao Phraya Tourist Sightseeing Boats are a very convenient way to see the main sights of Bangkok, located on the bank of the Chao Phraya River.
- Chao Phraya Sightseeing Boats is hop-on hop-off tourist transport in the heart of Bangkok city:
- You can hop off at any stop to explore a sight, then return to the pier and board the next boat with the Chao Phraya Sightseeing Boat logo.
- If you purchase a day ticket, you can enjoy unlimited transfers.
- Operation hours: daily from 9:00 to 19:15, with departures every 30 minutes.
- Route: The tourist boat route includes 10 stops:
- Stops conveniently located near Bangkok's most popular attractions, metro stations, and the famous Khao San Road.
- In the evening, the route extends to Asiatique, featuring a night market and an amusement park.
Onboard Amenities:
- Open upper deck: Perfect for enjoying the view and taking beautiful photos.
- Closed lower deck: Provides shelter in case of rain or extreme heat.
- Facilities onboard: a toilet and free Wi-Fi.
Tickets:
- You can purchase discounted tickets on the Klook website.
- Price: 150 baht for a day ticket, allowing unlimited trips and transfers throughout the day.
- Extras: Each ticket comes with a map detailing all stops and boat schedules.
Chao Phraya Tourist Sightseeing Boats is one of the best ways to explore Bangkok and capture stunning photos. Make sure to prioritize these tourist boats for a memorable experience.
Bangkok Canals and Chao Phraya River Sightseeing Tours by Long-tail Boat
Long wooden boats are the best choice for navigating the narrow canals of Bangkok. These canals, known as "klongs," branch off from the main river and extend deep into the city, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Bangkok.
I recommend booking a Bangkok's canals tour on the Klook website, where you can find highly-rated tours with many positive reviews.
While you can purchase group or individual excursions on long-tail boats at various piers, be cautious. Sellers at these piers are often only interested until you pay, and you might end up on a dull trip with long waits at closed locks. Therefore, I advise against booking tours this way.
Tip: use the Klook website to buy discounted tickets and book interesting, affordable excursions. Despite its somewhat confusing layout, the Klook website and app are reliable and helpful.
Here are two recommended excursions along Bangkok's canals:
- Bangkok's Canals & Chaophraya River by Longtail Boat to Wat Arun.
- Big Buddha (Wat Paknam) and Canal Longtail Boat Sightseeing Tour in Bangkok.
You can join a group tour or book a private tour for your party.
Chao Phraya Cruises with Dinner and a Show
Evening cruises offer stunning views of Bangkok's landmarks, a delicious dinner, and a vibrant show.
Tips: When choosing an evening boat cruise, check the ratings and reviews from other tourists. Dress nicely, as if attending a festive event at a good restaurant.
Getting Around Bangkok by Public River Transport
Chao Phraya Express boats are a major mode of transport in Bangkok, providing a fast and scenic way to travel along the Chao Phraya River.
Don't confuse:
- Chao Phraya Express Boats - Bangkok's public transport boats.
- Chao Phraya Sightseeing Boats - tourist boats. These sightseeing Boats are more expensive but have routes and stops better suited for visiting Bangkok's attractions.
Tips: To effectively use public boats in Bangkok, you need an internet connection. Stops are announced only in Thai, if at all. Use a map to determine which pier to disembark at. All piers are marked on Google Maps, and there is even a boat schedule, although it may not always be accurate.
The Chao Phraya Express Boats serve as public transport for Bangkok residents. They travel along the Chao Phraya River, stopping at over 50 piers, including in the suburbs of Bangkok, from Nonthaburi in the north to Sathorn in the south.
Advantages of the Chao Phraya Express Boats
- Escape Bangkok's notorious traffic.
- Budget-friendly affordable fares.
- Enjoy sights like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, various temples, skyscrapers, and riverside slums.
- Sitting closer to the side offers great photo opportunities.
The Chao Phraya Express boats operate on colour-coded routes, each marked with a flag:
- Orange Boat Route: Nonthaburi to Wat Rajsingkorn, daily, 16 baht.
- Yellow Boat Route: Nonthaburi to Sathorn, weekdays, 21 baht.
- Green/Yellow Boat Route: Pakkret to Sathorn, weekdays, fare depends on distance.
- Red Boat Route: Nonthaburi to Sathorn, weekdays, 30 baht.
Recommended Route for tourists is the Orange Chao Phraya Express Boats Route:
- Frequency: Operates daily, every 20 - 30 minutes.
- Stops near Major Attractions:
- Tha Chang Pier: The Grand Palace.
- Tha Tien Pier: Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and the Museum of Siam.
- Ratchawongse Pier: Chinatown.
- Sathorn Pier: Transfer to the BTS Skytrain at Saphan Taksin Station.
Chao Phraya boats offer an inexpensive way to explore Bangkok from the water, allowing you to move around the city quickly and avoid traffic jams. You'll be surrounded by locals, giving you a glimpse into everyday life in non-touristy Bangkok. But be prepared to research routes and ensure you have access to online maps and navigation.
Internet in Thailand - everything tourists should know is an article that you may find helpful.
