Opulence Buffett Dinner Cruise & Cultural Show

Opulence Buffett Dinner Cruise & Cultural Show

Imagine floating along the Chao Phraya River in a beautifully appointed vessel, soaking in luminous city sights, all while enjoying a gourmet buffet and live cultural entertainment. This cruise, offered by I Asia Thailand, costs around $62.62 per person and lasts roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes. It’s a popular choice, often booked 11 days in advance, which indicates good interest from travelers seeking a mix of luxury, scenic beauty, and authentic Thai culture.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning views of Bangkok’s illuminated landmarks — especially the temples and the Grand Palace — are unforgettable, particularly at night when everything sparkles in the dark. Second, the gourmet buffet offers a solid variety of Thai and international dishes, perfect for those wanting a taste of local flavors in an elegant setting.

On the flip side, a possible drawback is the chaotic boarding process, which some guests have mentioned, along with long buffet lines. Also, because it’s a food-only menu, beverages are extra, so don’t forget to budget for drinks if you want a glass of wine or cocktail. Still, this cruise is ideal for couples, families, or groups looking for a romantic, relaxing, and scenic evening with a touch of luxury.

If you’re after a luxurious night out that combines breathtaking river vistas with cultural flair, this cruise is likely to suit you well. Just be prepared for a busy boarding process and a lively atmosphere.

Key Points

• Luxurious setting with elegant decor and attentive service
• Scenic views of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks lit up at night
• Gourmet buffet with a mix of Thai and international dishes
• Live entertainment including music and cultural performances
• Boarding can be chaotic, so arrive early
• Drinks are extra, not included in the ticket price
• Suitable for romantic evenings, families, or groups seeking a special experience
• Weather can affect the experience, especially views of landmarks at night

A Deep Dive into the Experience

What to Expect and How It Feels

Starting at the ICONSIAM pier at 8:00 pm, you’ll board a sophisticated vessel designed to impress. Guests have described the boat as beautiful and elegant, with many reviews highlighting its cleanliness and upscale appearance. From the moment you step aboard, you’re greeted with a welcome drink—a nice touch that sets the tone for an evening of indulgence.

The boarding process can be a little hectic, with some reviews noting chaos at the buffet line, but once settled, you can relax and soak in the breathtaking views. As the boat glides along the river, you’ll see Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and the Rama VIII Bridge, among other sights.

Guests frequently comment on how these landmarks look spectacular illuminated at night. However, some reviews mention that high or low tide might restrict access to certain sights, which is beyond the cruise operator’s control. The scenic river views are truly a highlight, whether you’re on the main deck or the top rooftop area.

Food and Beverage Offerings

The buffet offers a Thai and international menu, with many guests praising the variety and quality of the food. One reviewer specifically noted that the sushi was great, while others appreciated the decent seafood options.

A frequent theme in reviews is the long buffet lines and somewhat chaotic service, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to start your feast. Since beverages are not included, you’ll need to purchase drinks onboard, which can be added to your bill. Guests with specific dietary preferences, like vegetarians, have found vegetarian options available and appreciated the courteous staff accommodating their needs.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The cruise features live music, with some reviewers describing the band as excellent and noting that the music ranged from soft dinner tunes to lively dance numbers. In some reviews, guests mention that people danced toward the end of the night, contributing to a festive, lively vibe.

Many passengers mention the romantic and elegant atmosphere, especially when the boat is moving smoothly along the river with city lights glimmering around them. The rooftop area is a particular highlight, offering a more open view of the city’s skyline.

Is This Experience Worth Its Price?

At roughly $62.62, the cruise offers good value for a scenic, gourmet experience. The quality of the food, beautiful setting, and live entertainment all contribute to a memorable evening. However, it’s worth noting that the chaotic boarding process and additional costs for drinks might be downsides for some.

Most reviews indicate the experience exceeds expectations, especially when weather cooperates. Many guests mention that they would recommend this cruise to friends, especially for those celebrating special occasions or seeking a romantic night out.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: ICONSIAM Pier

Guests usually meet at ICONSIAM, a major shopping and cultural hub, which is accessible via public transportation. Arriving early is recommended to avoid the rush and to ensure you’re onboard on time. The start time at 8:00 pm means you can enjoy a leisurely evening, especially if you want to take some photos or explore the surroundings.

Stops and Landmarks

Although the cruise is primarily a water journey, it passes by several key landmarks:

• River City Bangkok: This arts and antiques center is an interesting sight from the river, adding some local flavor to the view.
• Wat Arun: The Temple of the Dawn is one of Bangkok’s most iconic monuments, especially stunning when lit up at night.
• Wat Phra Kaew: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is highly revered and often visible from the river, depending on the tide.
• The Grand Palace: This sprawling complex was the former royal residence and remains a symbol of Thailand’s regal history.
• Rama VIII Bridge: A suspension bridge that’s particularly beautiful when illuminated at night.

End of the Tour

The cruise concludes back at the same ICONSIAM pier. The timing is convenient for guests who want to continue exploring Bangkok after the cruise or head directly to their hotel.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

From the reviews, we find a mix of enthusiastic praise and honest critique. Several guests have called it the “best boat ride for a night cruise” and “a great experience overall.” They loved the spectacular views, the excellent food, and friendly staff.

Some mentioned that weather could spoil the fun — rain or high tides might restrict the view or delay the experience. Still, even with minor setbacks, most agreed that the visual spectacle of the illuminated city was worth it.

A few guests expressed frustration with buffet chaos, but acknowledged that once seated and enjoying the surroundings, they felt it was worth the wait. If you’re someone who values seamless service and quiet elegance, arriving early is advisable.

The Sum Up

The Opulence Buffett Dinner Cruise in Bangkok offers a luxurious and scenic way to spend an evening. With spectacular views, delicious food, and live entertainment, it provides a memorable mix of relaxation and culture. While the boarding process can be a little hectic and drinks are extra, most guests find the overall experience well worth the price.

This cruise suits couples celebrating special occasions, families wanting a safe environment with entertainment, or anyone eager to see Bangkok’s landmarks from the water in a refined setting. It’s not perfect, but the beauty of the river at night and the quality of the experience make it a worthwhile addition to your Bangkok itinerary.

If you’re looking for a romantic, scenic, and culturally rich evening with good value, this cruise will likely match your expectations. Just remember to arrive early, hold your drinks, and enjoy the glittering city lights from the comfort of a beautiful boat.

FAQs

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise begins at 8:00 pm, so arriving a little early helps avoid the rush and ensures a smooth boarding.

Is the buffet included in the price?
Yes, the Thai and international dinner buffet is included. Beverages, however, are extra and can be purchased onboard.

Can I see Bangkok’s landmarks from the boat?
Yes, you will pass by Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and other iconic sites. The best views are in the dark at night, weather permitting.

What if it rains during the cruise?
Rain can limit visibility of landmarks and sometimes force the boat to stay below deck. Reviewers mention that bad weather can spoil the view but still offers an enjoyable river ride.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, several reviews mention vegetarian dishes that were excellent and well-catered for.

Is the experience suitable for families?
Absolutely, many reviews cite it as great for families wanting a relaxing, scenic night with entertainment.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate. The boat is elegant, and many guests dress nicely but comfortably.

In all, this dinner cruise is a great way to see Bangkok from the river, enjoy delicious food, and soak in the city’s lights and sounds in a setting that feels special without being overly formal. With a little planning, it’s an experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Bangkok’s vibrant evenings.