Bangkok: The Opulence Chao Phraya Lavish Dinner Cruise

Taking a cruise along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok can be a magical way to see the city’s illuminated skyline and sacred landmarks. This particular experience, called The Opulence Chao Phraya Lavish Dinner Cruise, promises an elegant two-hour journey filled with delicious food, scenic views, and live music. While it has garnered mixed reviews, it offers a taste of Bangkok’s nightlife from a uniquely luxurious vantage point.

We like this cruise for its spectacular river views, especially seeing iconic landmarks like temples and palaces illuminated at night. The buffet-style dining includes a good variety of Thai, Asian, and international dishes, perfect if you’re craving a mix of flavors. The live jazz and saxophone music add a relaxing, upscale vibe, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a special celebration.

However, a potential concern is the mixed reviews, with some guests expressing disappointment in the experience’s overall quality or organization. It’s worth considering whether a more highly-rated cruise might better suit your expectations. Still, for those after a peaceful, scenic dinner with good drinks and music, this cruise can be a suitable choice, especially if you value a centrally located departure point in ICONSIAM.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a romantic, leisurely night out or those wanting to enjoy Bangkok’s famous river scenery in style. It’s also a decent pick if you’re after a relaxing cruise with international cuisine that doesn’t involve too much complexity or over-the-top luxury.

Good To Know

• Scenic views of Bangkok’s landmarks from the river highlight this cruise
• Buffet includes Thai, Asian, and international dishes
• Live music performance sets an upscale, relaxing tone
• Departure from ICONSIAM Pier makes it accessible in the city center
• Duration of 2 hours keeps it a manageable evening activity
• Mixed reviews suggest it’s good but not perfect in execution

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

If you’re craving a relaxed way to see Bangkok at night, this dinner cruise offers a combination of delicious food, scenic views, and live music. It’s a chance to glide past some of the most sacred temples and modern skyscrapers all lit up, creating a stunning backdrop for your meal.

What makes this experience stand out is the viewing platform provided by the boat, offering a unique perspective of Bangkok’s skyline, especially at sunset or after dark. Plus, the buffet caters to diverse tastes with both local and international options, so everyone can find something to enjoy. The live jazz and saxophone performances add an extra layer of sophistication, making it feel like an elegant night out.

A possible drawback is that the cruise’s quality has been mixed, with some guests feeling the experience didn’t quite match expectations. One reviewer’s comment, for example, hints at dissatisfaction: “inadmissible!!! inutile dins,” suggesting some were disappointed with certain aspects, possibly organization or service.

This cruise suits travelers seeking a calm, scenic dinner with the chance to see Bangkok’s most famous sites from the river. It’s less about high-end luxury or exclusivity, and more about enjoying a pleasant evening with good food and views.

What to Expect: A Detailed Breakdown

Meeting Point and Check-in

The cruise departs from ICONSIAM Pier 2, a central location in Bangkok. Check-in begins at 18:00, with boarding starting around 30 minutes earlier. It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid rushing and to ensure you have time to find the pier comfortably.

You’ll need to present your pdf ticket along with your passport for verification. The check-in process appears straightforward, but arriving early allows for a smoother start.

The Cruise Itinerary

Once aboard, the first hour is dedicated to live music by a saxophonist and singers, performing a mix of pop and jazz tunes. This provides a relaxing soundtrack to the initial part of your cruise, creating a nice ambiance. The live music is generally appreciated, though some reviews don’t mention it explicitly, so it might vary depending on the performers.

As the boat glides through the river, you’ll pass Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, including temples and palaces—a visual feast especially at night when they’re illuminated. The views from the boat are described as scenic, making it a great opportunity for photos.

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Dining Experience

The buffet features a variety of dishes, with an emphasis on Thai cuisine alongside Asian and international options. Guests can enjoy appetizers, main courses, and desserts laid out for self-service. The buffet is described as “grandiose,” with a good selection of favorite Thai dishes and international treats.

A highlight for some guests is the excellent wine and beverage selection—a detail that adds value for those wanting a more refined experience. Vegetarian options are available if requested beforehand, which is helpful for dietary restrictions.

Duration and Atmosphere

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it suitable for an evening activity without feeling too long. The dress code is smart casual, so dressing up a bit enhances the experience and fits the upscale vibe.

The overall atmosphere is relaxed but elegant, with the combination of live music, scenic views, and good food providing a memorable night. It’s not overly crowded or noisy, making it ideal for intimate conversations or a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets.

Disappointments and Caveats

One reviewer’s negative feedback hints at dissatisfaction with the overall experience, calling it “inadmissible.” While specific details aren’t provided, it’s a reminder that expectations should be tempered, and it’s wise to read recent reviews before booking.

Guests who are prone to seasickness may want to consider this before booking, as the cruise involves some gentle movement on water. Also, smoking isn’t allowed onboard, which is common but worth noting for smokers.

Value and Price Considerations

While exact prices aren’t specified here, the value of this experience hinges on what you seek—a scenic dinner with good drinks and music. The buffet’s variety, the scenic landmarks, and the live entertainment all add to its appeal, especially for those wanting a relaxed, stylish evening.

The cruise’s two-hour duration means you get a taste of Bangkok’s river life without a hefty time commitment. If you’re on a budget but still want a memorable night, this experience offers a good balance of quality and affordability.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for couples or small groups looking for a romantic, scenic dinner. It’s also suitable for travelers wanting a relaxing, laid-back evening with a touch of elegance.

If you’re after a more luxurious or exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options, especially since some reviews suggest that the quality could be inconsistent. However, if you appreciate live music, good international buffet, and river views, this cruise can hit the right spot.

The Sum Up

The Opulence Chao Phraya Lavish Dinner Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic way to see Bangkok at night, paired with a varied buffet and live jazz music in a charming setting. Its central departure point and manageable two-hour duration make it practical for most travelers.

While the experience may not be flawless, it provides good value for those who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, scenic views, and tasty food—especially if you’re a fan of live music and a good wine selection. It’s a solid choice for couples, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a memorable dinner.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, picturesque, and reasonably priced evening in Bangkok, this cruise could be just what you need. Just keep expectations in check, and consider recent reviews for the latest insights.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request.

What is the check-in time?
Check-in begins at 18:00, with boarding starting about 30 minutes earlier.

Where does the cruise depart from?
From ICONSIAM Pier 2, centrally located in Bangkok.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 2 hours.

Is there live music onboard?
Yes, a saxophonist and singers perform pop and jazz tunes during the first hour.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely, bringing a camera is recommended to capture the cityscape and landmarks.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Are there dress code requirements?
Yes, smart casual attire is suggested.

What landmarks can I see from the boat?
You’ll see Bangkok’s most famous and sacred landmarks, beautifully lit up at night.

Is this experience suitable for people prone to seasickness?
It might not be ideal, as some gentle boat movement is involved.

Overall, this dinner cruise provides a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Bangkok’s evening skyline, with good food, live music, and a touch of elegance. It’s best for those who appreciate good ambiance and don’t mind a few mixed reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby