Scenic Bangkok Unicorn Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River

Review of the Scenic Bangkok Unicorn Dinner Cruise on Chao Phraya River

Taking a cruise along the Chao Phraya River is one of those bucket-list experiences in Bangkok, and the Unicorn Dinner Cruise promises a magical evening with city lights, tasty food, and relaxing vibes. While it’s not a high-end luxury experience, it offers a charming way to see Bangkok from the water, especially for those who love a casual, scenic dinner with a touch of entertainment.

What we love about this cruise is the stunning views of iconic landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace illuminated against the night sky—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The international seafood buffet is another highlight, featuring river prawns, Chilean mussels, and salmon sashimi that satisfy seafood lovers. Plus, the live band adds a lively soundtrack, making the whole cruise feel festive and relaxed. Lastly, the affordable price point of around $37 makes it accessible for many travelers seeking a memorable evening without overspending.

One aspect to keep in mind is that the cruise can be quite crowded, with up to 400 guests on board, which might affect the intimacy or quietness of the experience. The two-hour duration is perfect for a relaxed evening, but if you’re seeking a more private or exclusive night, this might not be your ideal choice. This cruise suits those looking for a fun, scenic, and tasty introduction to Bangkok’s river sights—families, couples, or solo travelers who want an enjoyable evening with a good balance of sightseeing and dining.

Good To Know

• Stunning Night Views: Highlights of Bangkok’s landmarks illuminated against the night sky.
• Tasty Seafood Buffet: An international selection with fresh seafood, sushi, and tasty sides.
• Live Entertainment: A live band sets a lively, enjoyable atmosphere.
• Convenient & Value-Packed: Affordable price for a two-hour river cruise with food and music included.
• Crowded but Enjoyable: Can feel bustling with up to 400 guests, which adds energy but less privacy.
• Ideal for Casual Sightseeing: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic dinner experience on the water.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point & Departure

The adventure begins at the ICONSIAM Pier, a modern, easily accessible location near public transportation. From here, you’ll board the Unicorn Cruise at 7:00 pm, just in time to catch the sunset and the onset of city lights turning on across Bangkok’s skyline. The check-in process is described as smooth, with reviews mentioning organized boarding—so you won’t have to worry about chaos or confusion.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The cruise’s route covers some of Bangkok’s most photographed landmarks, with some stops that add cultural and artistic layers to the experience:

• River City Bangkok (RCB): A lively art and antiques hub, this stop offers a glimpse into Thailand’s artistic scene. Visitors can explore galleries and view rare antiques, often enjoying views of the riverfront. While this stop isn’t a major sightseeing highlight, it adds a cultural flavor to the cruise.

• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Known for its intricate porcelain mosaics and towering spires, Wat Arun is a favorite among travelers. On the cruise, you get to admire it from the river, and some reviews note that during sunset, it glows beautifully, offering excellent photo opportunities.

• Wat Phra Kaew & The Grand Palace: These are Bangkok’s crown jewels, with towering spires and vivid murals. The Emerald Buddha housed here is a must-see, and many find the views from the river at night particularly beautiful. It’s worth noting that the cruise doesn’t stop here, but you get a full view from the water.

• Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha): The massive, gold-covered Reclining Buddha, measuring 46 meters long, is visible from the river. The cruise provides a nice perspective on this historic temple without the crowds of visiting in person.

• Rama VIII Bridge & Taksin Bridge: These architectural marvels offer modern contrast to the historic temples. The bridges are especially striking at sunset, and the reviews mention the sweeping views here as a highlight.

• Asiatique the Riverfront: A lively night market and entertainment zone, Asiatique is a bustling spot with dining, shopping, and a Ferris wheel. The cruise offers a great vantage point to see its illuminated lights and lively atmosphere.

• Riverside views & panoramic scenery: From the deck, you’ll enjoy a continuous showcase of Bangkok’s riverfront, skyline, and bridge architecture. Reviewers mention that the views are especially beautiful at night, offering a different perspective of the city.

Food & Beverage Experience

The international seafood buffet is designed to satisfy a variety of palates, featuring options like river prawns, Chilean mussels, and salmon sashimi. The buffet also includes Thai favorites such as tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup), stir-fried vegetables, and a selection of rice dishes. Desserts range from tropical fruits to cakes, plus fried bananas—well-loved by many reviewers.

A welcome drink and drinking water are included, along with hot coffee and tea, but additional beverages aren’t covered. Some guests have noted that the seafood quality is good for the price, though not luxurious, which aligns with the cruise’s focus on value rather than fine dining.

Entertainment & Atmosphere

The live music duo creates a relaxed, convivial ambiance. Guests have described the musical performances as lively and fun, adding to the overall enjoyment. The presence of a free mini birthday cake suggests some cruises might have special touches for celebrations.

Duration & Group Size

The cruise lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the sights, food, and music without feeling rushed. However, with up to 400 guests onboard, it’s a lively, bustling environment. While some reviews mention that it wasn’t overcrowded, others say it felt quite busy, which can be a plus or minus depending on your preference for social energy or quiet.

Price & Value

At $36.91 per person, this cruise offers a solid value for a scenic, dining, and entertainment package. The inclusion of a buffet, live music, and river views makes it a more affordable way to experience Bangkok’s night scene than private dinners or luxury cruises. When comparing the cost against the variety of sights and food, it’s a package that suits budget-conscious travelers wanting a fun, flexible evening.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Advance booking is recommended, with most travelers booking about 16 days ahead.
• The cruise departs promptly at 7:00 pm—arrive a little earlier to settle in.
• The experience is suitable for children (ages 4-10), with free entry for kids under 3, though they must be accompanied by an adult.
• It’s weather-dependent; if rain or storms occur, the cruise may be canceled or rescheduled.
• No gratuities are included, so tipping staff is discretionary but appreciated.
• The cruise isn’t suitable for those seeking a quiet, intimate experience or a private dinner.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This dinner cruise is perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed dining experience. Families with kids, couples celebrating a special occasion, or solo adventurers looking for a lively way to see Bangkok’s landmarks will find this tour appealing. It’s also a good choice for those on a budget, as the price includes food, drinks, and entertainment, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy the river.

However, if you’re seeking a serene, exclusive atmosphere or detailed commentary about landmarks, this might not be the ideal pick. The crowd can feel energetic and busy, which adds fun but may detract from serenity.

Final Thoughts

The Scenic Bangkok Unicorn Dinner Cruise offers a charming mix of beautiful night views, delicious seafood, and lively music at an accessible price. It’s a casual yet memorable way to see Bangkok’s most iconic sights from the water, especially for those who enjoy a bustling, sociable environment. While it’s not luxurious or exclusive, it provides genuine value and a fun, relaxed atmosphere suitable for a wide range of travelers.

If you’re after a relatively inexpensive, scenic, and entertaining evening on the river, this cruise is well worth considering. Just remember to book early, arrive on time, and enjoy the vibrant lights and flavors that Bangkok has to offer.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-10 can join at the children’s rate, and children aged 0-3 can participate for free if accompanied by an adult.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an international seafood buffet, welcome drink, drinking water, hot coffee and tea, live music, and a free mini birthday cake.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Additional beverages outside what’s provided are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want extra drinks.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 2 hours, including time from departure to return.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get views of Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the Rama VIII Bridge, Taksin Bridge, and Asiatique, among others.

Is there a dress code?
The tour doesn’t specify a strict dress code, but smart casual is recommended, especially in the evening.

How crowded will it be?
Up to 400 guests can attend, making it lively but not overly cramped according to most reviews.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before. Canceling less than 24 hours in advance means no refund.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
At ICONSIAM Pier 4PGH6+2PC, accessible via public transportation, with departure at 7:00 pm sharp.

This cruise offers a lively, scenic snapshot of Bangkok by night, great for those wanting a casual, flavorful evening with a view. It’s a fun way to tick off some key landmarks without the hassle of daytime crowds or complicated itineraries.