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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.

How to Get Around and Explore Bangkok Sights by Boats 

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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.

View of the Chao Phraya River from a Riverside Hotel (Bangkok, Thailand)
View of the Chao Phraya River from a Riverside Hotel (Bangkok, Thailand)

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.
Stops of Chao Phraya Tourist Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Boats (Bangkok, Thailand)
Stops of Chao Phraya Tourist Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Boats (Bangkok, Thailand)

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.

One of the highlights is the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), one of Bangkok's most beautiful landmarks.
One of the highlights is the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), one of Bangkok's most beautiful landmarks.

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:

You can join a group tour or book a private tour for your party.

Экскурсия по каналам Бангкока - возможность увидеть повседневную жизнь местных жителей
Bangkok canals tours is a chance to see local daily life

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:

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.

Chao Phraya Express Boat Interior (Bangkok, Thailand)
Chao Phraya Express Boat Interior

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.
Chao Phraya Express Boat Fares and Routes (Bangkok, Thailand)
Express Chao Phraya Express Boat Fares

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.
All Chao Phraya Express Boat Schedule (Bangkok, Thailand)
Chao Phraya Express Boats Schedule

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 Express Boat Route Map (Thailand, Bangkok)
Chao Phraya Express Boat Route Map
Chao Phraya Express Boat Route Map (Thailand, Bangkok)
Chao Phraya Express Boat Route Map

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.

About the author

The author of AsiaPositive Iryna Rasko

I am a passionate traveller and photography is my greatest love. Asia is a constant source of inspiration for me.

The information I share in my articles is based on personal experience and extensive research. It is my sincere hope that my articles will assist you in planning your travels in Asia and beyond.

Please note that English is not my first language and I apologise for any errors or awkward phrasing.

© Iryna Rasko