Bangkok: Prince Alangka Cruise with Buffet and Live Music

If you’re looking to add a touch of romance and a splash of local charm to your Bangkok trip, a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River might just fit the bill. This experience combines stunning nighttime views of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks with a lively atmosphere, good food, and entertainment—all for a surprisingly reasonable price of just $29 per person.

We love how this cruise offers a seamless way to see the city’s glittering skyline while relaxing on the water. The international seafood buffet is a standout, with fresh prawns and mussels that make the meal memorable. The live cabaret show adds a lively, colorful element, and the open-air rooftop deck invites you to soak in the sights while feeling the breeze.

One potential consideration is the fixed departure time—timing is strict, so arriving late means missing out without a refund. Still, this cruise tends to appeal most to travelers seeking a lively, all-in-one evening experience that blends sightseeing, dining, and entertainment. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a special night out with a view.

Good To Know

• Affordable luxury: Great value for a comprehensive experience with food, entertainment, and skyline views.
• Iconic sights: Pass by landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Rama VIII Bridge, and Memorial Bridge illuminated at night.
• Diverse entertainment: Live Thai cabaret, music, and dance performances enhance the evening.
• Delicious buffet: A wide selection of seafood and hot dishes, with options like river prawns and New Zealand mussels.
• Flexible boarding points: Options at ICONSIAM or Asiatique The Riverfront make access convenient.
• Well-equipped ship: Three decks, including an open-air rooftop, ensure comfort and great photo opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

The journey begins with choosing your preferred boarding point—either ICONSIAM or Asiatique The Riverfront—both vibrant shopping and dining districts that ripple with Bangkok’s energy. After exchanging your voucher for a paper ticket at the local counter, you’ll step aboard the Prince Alangka, a spacious three-deck cruise ship designed to maximize sightseeing and comfort.

The Ship and Its Layout
The vessel’s design makes the most of the surroundings: the third deck offers an open-air rooftop where you can stand back for panoramic views, perfect for snapping photos of the city’s illuminated skyline. Meanwhile, the second deck’s front outdoor section gives an unobstructed view of landmarks as you glide past them. The indoor areas, on the first and second decks, are air-conditioned—ideal if you need a break from the heat or humidity.

The Itinerary & Views
As the cruise sets sail, you’ll be treated to a sparkling nightscape. Passengers often mention how breathtaking it is to see the Grand Palace and Wat Arun lit up, creating a magical backdrop for your dinner. The Rama VIII Bridge and the Memorial Bridge add a modern contrast, their lights dancing on the river’s surface. The entire cruise is a great way to relax and take in sights usually only visible from the water—no need to hassle with traffic or crowded streets.

Food & Beverage
The highlight for many is the international seafood buffet. The spread includes Thai classics and more international dishes—think hot Thai curries, river prawns, New Zealand mussels, and a variety of hot dishes. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and freshness of the seafood, with some calling it “delicious enough to rival high-end restaurants.” During the cruise, drinks like beer are self-service and included, alongside hot coffee and tea, making it easy to stay refreshed as you enjoy the show.

Entertainment & Atmosphere
Entertainment is lively and authentic. Expect a Thai cabaret show with lively costumes and talented performers, alongside live band performances and traditional Thai dance. One guest noted that the cabaret was dazzling, adding a fun, colorful element to the evening. The music is lively but not overpowering, allowing for conversation while still feeling festive.

Timing & Duration
The cruise typically lasts around 2 hours, making it a relaxed but substantial evening outing. The departure time is punctual, and guests are advised to arrive early as there are no refunds for late arrivals—so plan to leave enough time for Bangkok’s notorious traffic.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Booking & Payment: You can reserve your spot in advance and opt to pay later, giving flexibility to your plans.
• What to Bring: Just a camera, some sunscreen if it’s still light when you arrive, and comfortable clothes for the evening.
• What Not to Bring: Smoking is not allowed on the ship, so plan accordingly.
• Accessibility: The cruise isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals prone to seasickness.
• Weather Considerations: As it’s an outdoor experience, dress appropriately and be prepared for potential weather changes.

Overall Value & Who Will Love It

This cruise offers an impressive balance of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment at an accessible price point. For around $29, you get a well-rounded evening that showcases Bangkok’s beauty from the river while enjoying a delicious seafood buffet and engaging performances. It’s a fantastic choice for couples looking for a romantic night, small groups seeking a lively atmosphere, or travelers who want a stress-free way to see the city’s night skyline.

While the experience leans into a vibrant, lively vibe, it’s also quite accommodating with indoor, air-conditioned spaces if you need a break from the heat. The concerted effort to include multiple viewing decks maximizes photo opportunities and comfort, making it an all-around enjoyable experience.

The only real caveat is the strict timing—arrive on time or risk missing out, which can be a small hassle given Bangkok’s traffic. However, if you’re prepared, the cruise delivers excellent value and memorable scenery, making it a highlight for many visitors.

Final Thoughts

The Prince Alangka Cruise truly stands out as a budget-friendly, entertaining way to experience Bangkok’s iconic river at night. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate good food, lively entertainment, and spectacular vistas in one package. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an atmospheric evening out, this cruise offers a friendly and immersive way to enjoy the charms of Bangkok’s waterways.

If you’re after a blend of visual splendor, tasty seafood, and a fun, engaging atmosphere, this experience is likely to leave you with lasting memories—without breaking the bank.

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FAQ

How do I board the cruise?
You can choose to meet at either ICONSIAM or Asiatique The Riverfront, exchange your voucher at the local ticket counter, then board the Prince Alangka cruise ship.

What’s included in the price?
The fare covers the seafood buffet, live music, Thai dance performances, a welcome drink, drinking water, hot coffee and tea, a free mini birthday cake, and self-service beer.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Transportation to the boarding points and any expenses outside the listed inclusions are not included. You’ll need to cover your own travel to and from the meeting points.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for a warm evening, and don’t forget your camera. It’s an outdoor experience, so dress accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally suitable for most, it may not be ideal for pregnant women, those with back issues, or people prone to seasickness. Children should be supervised, and families can enjoy the vibrant performances.

What happens if I’m late?
The cruise departs punctually, and no refunds are given for late arrivals. It’s best to arrive early to avoid missing the boat.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change suddenly.