Best dining cruises in Bangkok

A striking new addition to the Chao Phraya River, this origami-inspired Japanese ferryboat is turning heads with its innovative design and unique experience. Offering two distinct excursions, the River of Gold sets sail at 5.30pm, providing the perfect backdrop for an orange-hued sunset, while the Symphony of River offers a romantic journey under the starlit sky. Unlike traditional river cruises, this experience embraces Japanese-inspired elegance, featuring plush cushions and floor seating for a cosy, authentic ambiance. The culinary highlight? Exceptional Japanese cuisine, with beautifully presented sashimi and sushi served aboard miniature boats, adding a touch of artistry to every bite. For B1,400, you can embark on this three-hour voyage, with premium packages available for additional perks. To ensure a silky-smooth start to your journey, an exclusive waiting lounge is available before boarding. 

Asiatique The Riverfront, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem.. 02-687-9000. Cruising time 5.15pm Starting B1,400 

As one of the most popular cruises in the city, the Royal Princess River Dinner Cruise also deserves a top spot on our list. With a more traditional river cruise feel, this contender focuses on seafood sourced from the capital itself, with a buffet menu full of fresh grilled prawns and crab, imported oysters and salmon and a generous helping of Thai, Japanese and Western favourites. This dinner cruise has a definite romance to it, so best enjoyed with a better half who can share with you the food, live music and landmarks along the way. Start your journey at Asiatique pier – arrive early to explore the vibrant shops and stalls or enjoy a refreshing cocktail before boarding. Then, embark on a culinary adventure showcasing flavours from around the globe.

Asiatique The Riverfront, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem. 099-418-8889. Cruising time 5.15pm. B1,290 

Take your dinner cruising to another level (three in fact) aboard the aptly named Opulence Buffet Dinner Cruise – a gigantic three-storey ship that can welcome over 700 guests at any given time. Unlike most other dinner cruises, don’t expect personalised service here. Instead, absorb the vibe of neon lights and luxurious ballroom seating that glows like a beacon, calling people to enjoy its busy buffet of seafood and international fare. While aboard, explore each floor and choose your vibe. Will you go for comfortable aircon ballroom seating or take in the sights from the open air rooftop?

Iconsiam Pier, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San. 02-675-4200. Cruising time 5pm. B1,800 

The antique artistry and retro setting of the Manohra Cruise makes it stand out against its peers, with the boat itself taking the form of a traditional reua krachaeng, essentially a traditional walnut-shaped wooden boat. Manohra offers three journeys a day: Sun (5pm), Stars (7pm) and Moon (8.30pm). Whatever time you leave, your journey will feature magnificent views of the famous Wat Arun along with a peek at the royal residence. For those craving food with historical context, this is the one to choose as you can enjoy traditional Thai fare with a rolling tapestry of Bangkok’s most iconic riverside architecture, including Customs House, the Rosary Church, Wat Arun and Santa Cruz Church.  

257/1-3 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Samrae. 02-431-9487. Cruising time 5pm, 7pm and 8.30pm.  Starting B3,199

A Chao Phraya River staple since 2001, this historic cruise provides an accessible dining experience with a wide array of choices. Offering convenient boarding from ICONSIAM, Asiatique Riverfront, and Pier 21, guests can savor Thai seafood, an international buffet, or an Indian buffet for those seeking bolder flavors. Live music featuring Thai and Western hits completes the international ambiance.

Iconsiam Pier, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San. 02-860-3700. Cruising time 7.30pm. B1,200

Experience the energy of a lively cabaret show paired with authentic classics like pad thai, tom yum kung, and massaman curry. Sip on free-flowing beer as you take in panoramic river views from the rooftop deck – ideal for a larger group. Prefer a cosier setting? Head to the second floor, where warm, traditional wooden decor creates an inviting atmosphere. On a budget? Visit the website for exclusive discounts that make this experience even more accessible.

Asiatique The Riverfront, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem. 084-136-1199. Cruising time 5pm. B699     

Alangka sets itself apart from other river cruises by delivering an authentic Thai cultural experience. Instead of the typical international buffet, guests are immersed in the beauty of Thai tradition with Ramayana-inspired dance performances and soothing live music. Sashimi lovers will delight in the fresh seafood and sliced salmon, while vegan diners are accommodated with prior notice. This sleek, modern luxury vessel offers the best of both worlds – air-conditioned indoor seating for comfort and a panoramic rooftop for breathtaking views of the river.

Iconsiam Pier, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San. 063-214-0999. Cruising time 7.15pm. B750

Embark on a refined Chao Phraya River journey with a rooftop dining cruise that combines fine dining with sophisticated ambiance and design. Step aboard the luxurious two-storey vessel, complete with an elegant oval-shaped bar deck inspired by Banyan Tree’s iconic Moon Bar. Unlike ordinary river cruises, Saffron Cruise offers meticulously curated Thai, vegetarian, and children’s set menus, crafted by Chef Renu Homsombat, the culinary visionary behind Banyan Tree. To enhance your journey, indulge in a monthly wine pairing, carefully selected to complement the flavours of the menu.

Iconsiam Pier, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San. 02-679-1200. Cruising time 7pm. B2,850 

This new, minimalist cruise, accessible from Iconsiam, offers a clean and modern atmosphere. Designed for up to 1,000 passengers, it boasts comfortable lounge seating and modern sound systems, making it ideal for events. Whether you're planning a wedding, company gathering, or private party, the ship's all-white space is adaptable. The generous seafood buffet, featuring succulent grilled river prawns, is a must-try.

Iconsiam Pier, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San. 089-670-1515. Cruising time 8.15pm