Bangkok Planate Dinner Cruise Experience

Thinking of cruising along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok? This Planate Dinner Cruise promises a relaxing evening filled with food, music, and views. While some travelers find it a charming way to unwind after a busy day, others have found it falls short of expectations. Here’s everything you need to know to decide if this two-hour boat ride is right for you.

What we like about this experience are the scenic views of Bangkok’s illuminated landmarks, the relaxing atmosphere of dining on the water, and the live music and dance performances that add a lively touch. It’s a great option for couples or groups wanting to enjoy a casual evening in a vibrant setting.

One potential drawback to consider is that some travelers have reported poor food quality and that the route didn’t match the advertised sights — mainly due to high water levels which led to route changes. If you’re expecting a grand sightseeing tour at night, this cruise might not meet those expectations.

This experience is best suited for those seeking a simple, scenic dinner with entertainment rather than a comprehensive tour of Bangkok’s night-time landmarks. It’s suitable for families, couples, or friends looking for a relaxed, informal night on the water.

Good To Know

• Scenic views of iconic Bangkok landmarks like Wat Arun and The Grand Palace
• Relaxed atmosphere with live music, Thai classical dance, and buffet dining
• Value for money at around $54 per person, including seafood and international buffet
• Route variability due to water level changes, leading to less sightseeing than expected
• Food quality has been criticized for being loose and not up to standard
• Short duration (about 2 hours), ideal for a quick, easy evening activity

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Welcome Drink

Your cruise begins at Asiatique The Riverfront at 8:00 pm. The initial moment is marked by a welcome fruit cocktail served on the deck, designed to set a relaxed tone as you prepare to glide along the river. The cruise departs promptly at 8:00 pm, heading downstream to admire some of Bangkok’s most photogenic sights.

Scenic Passages

While on board, you’ll pass Icon Siam, a modern shopping and entertainment complex, and Wat Arun, known for its stunning spires. The boat also offers views of The Royal Grand Palace, Wat Pra Kaew, and the impressive Rama VIII Bridge. These sights are the main draws for many, especially if the water level permits clear views of these landmarks at night.

However, a significant note from reviewers is that routes may be altered due to high water levels—a fact that can impact what you see. One reviewer noted, “We have not been able to make the scheduled tour and have not seen a single temple or monument at night. Too bad!”

Dining Experience

At around 8:15 pm, dinner is served under candlelight on the deck. The buffet includes seafood and international dishes arranged elegantly, from appetizers and main courses to desserts. The menu is designed to appeal to international tastes, with a focus on seafood, which is a highlight for many.

The quality of food has been a common point of criticism. One reviewer mentioned, “Very loose and poor quality food,” which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a gourmet meal. Still, the buffet provides enough variety to keep most diners satisfied, especially if you’re hungry after a day of exploring.

Entertainment

Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy live music performed by a duo, creating a soothing background, and Thai classical dance performances that add an authentic touch. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with some guests even dancing to the disco music at the end of the night.

Return and Disembarkation

The cruise concludes back at Asiatique around 10:00 pm. The short duration makes it an easy addition to your evening plans, especially if you want a relaxing way to end your day.

How This Experience Fits Into Your Bangkok Trip

While this cruise offers a chance to see some of Bangkok’s most iconic sights from the water, it’s important to set realistic expectations. If your goal is to experience a comprehensive night-time sightseeing tour, this cruise might fall short, especially if routes are altered unexpectedly. The viewing of landmarks like Wat Arun and the Royal Palace is not guaranteed, especially during high water levels, which some reviews highlight.

For those interested in dining and entertainment, the buffet and live performances can make for a pleasant evening, but be prepared for variability in quality. The price point of around $54 per person is reasonable for a two-hour cruise with food and entertainment included, but you’ll want to weigh that against the possibility of a less-than-stunning route and mediocre food.

Practical Considerations

Timing: The cruise departs at 8:00 pm, so plan to arrive a little earlier at Asiatique to settle in comfortably. The 2-hour duration makes it manageable even after a busy day.

Group Size: The tour can host up to 300 travelers, so it’s a lively, social environment, but it could also feel crowded, especially during peak times.

Price and Value: At roughly $54, this cruise offers a quick, scenic, and entertaining evening. However, the food quality and uncertain sightseeing might make it less appealing for travelers looking for a premium experience.

Accessibility: The departure point is near public transportation, making it accessible if you’re staying in central Bangkok.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is a good fit for families, couples, or friends seeking a casual evening with entertainment and scenic views. If you’re not overly concerned about seeing every landmark at night but value relaxing music, good company, and a buffet, it’s worth considering.

However, if gourmet dining or guaranteed landmark viewing is your priority, you might want to explore other options or consider private boat tours with more personalized routes.

FAQ

Does this cruise include sightseeing of Bangkok’s landmarks?
The cruise offers views of icons like Wat Arun and The Grand Palace, but due to high water levels, the route can be altered, and some landmarks might not be visible at night.

What’s the food like?
The buffet includes seafood and international dishes, but some travelers have found the food quality to be loose and not very refined. It’s enough to satisfy most appetites, but don’t expect gourmet cuisine.

What entertainment is included?
You’ll enjoy Thai classical dance performances, live music by a duo, and disco, creating a fun, lively atmosphere throughout the cruise.

Is this a romantic experience?
While the setting is romantic with candlelit dinners and scenic views, the overall experience depends on personal expectations. Some reviews mention the atmosphere as relaxing and charming, but the food and route variability may affect the mood.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a short but enjoyable evening activity.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Bangkok Planate Dinner Cruise offers an easy, laid-back way to enjoy the city’s illuminated sights and an evening of entertainment on the water. It’s an experience that balances scenic views, live performances, and a buffet meal, all at a reasonable price.

However, travelers should keep in mind that route changes due to water levels and food quality issues may impact satisfaction. It’s best suited for those who prioritize relaxation and entertainment over sightseeing and are okay with a more casual dining experience.

If you’re seeking a simple, enjoyable cruise with some authentic Thai touches, this could be a good addition to your Bangkok trip. But for more spectacular sights or gourmet dining, exploring other options might be worthwhile.

This cruise is an accessible, fun option for a relaxed evening, but manage your expectations and consider what you want most out of your night on the river.