Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok

A Luxurious Night on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River: The Smile Riverside Cruise Experience

When it comes to discovering Bangkok, many travelers focus on temples, markets, and bustling streets. But for a truly special evening, a luxury dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River offers a spectacular perspective that combines fine dining with breathtaking views. The Smile Riverside Cruise stands out as a well-priced option at just under $35 per person, lasting about two hours, and providing a mix of culture, cuisine, and captivating scenery.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing? First, the lavish international buffet is a highlight, featuring fresh seafood like salmon sashimi, river prawns, and baked mussels—perfect for seafood lovers. Second, the live music and traditional Thai performances, including Khon dances, add a cultural touch that complements the city’s luminous nightscape. The option to dine either in a cozy air-conditioned cabin or under the starry open sky caters to different preferences, making this experience versatile.

One thing to consider is that the cruise does not include alcohol beverages, so if you’re looking to sip wine or beer, you’ll need to arrange that separately. Also, because the journey depends on tides, some landmarks might be less visible during certain times, but the overall experience remains memorable. We reckon this cruise suits families, couples, and groups of friends eager for a relaxed yet elegant way to see Bangkok’s skyline at night.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Bangkok landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Rama VIII Bridge from the river.
• Delicious international buffet, especially seafood, with options for various dietary needs.
• Cultural entertainment including live music and Thai classical performances.
• Flexible dining options: open deck or air-conditioned cabin for comfort and ambiance.
• Great value at $34.80 per person for a two-hour luxury experience.
• Free birthday cake if you celebrate your special day during the cruise.

Exploring the Bangkok River by Night: A Deep Dive

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting at ICONSIAM Pier—a modern shopping and cultural hub—the cruise kicks off at 7:15 pm, giving you enough time to settle into your chosen dining spot before the evening’s entertainment begins. From here, you’ll glide along the river, passing some of Bangkok’s most famous sights, each illuminated and casting a magical glow at night.

River City Bangkok is the first stop. Known for its art, antiques, and river views, it’s a great place to appreciate the city’s artistic side, perhaps even catching a glimpse of galleries and shops lit up against the dark water. Though the tour doesn’t specify detailed visits, passing by these landmarks offers a scenic backdrop for your dinner.

Next, the ICONSIAM area is more than just a shopping mall; it’s a cultural landmark with a vibrant market, SookSiam, showcasing Thai craft and cuisine. From the boat, you’ll enjoy views of its impressive design and the bustling activity along the riverbanks.

Siriraj Pimukhsthan Museum is a unique stop for those interested in Thailand’s medical history; however, since the cruise is primarily a sightseeing and dining experience, it’s more about passing by than detailed exploration.

The iconic Wat Arun—the Temple of Dawn—appears majestically along your route. Its colorful porcelain spire is a favorite for photographers, and you’ll love the way it looks all lit up after sunset.

The Grand Palace is another highlight, giving you a chance to admire its shimmering spires and golden rooftops from the river—an especially striking sight at night.

Crossing under the Rama VIII Bridge, with its modern cable-stayed design and golden spire, offers a dramatic visual, perfect for photo buffs. The bridge itself is a symbol of modern Bangkok’s skyline.

Finally, the cruise often concludes at Asiatique the Riverfront, where the lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and a giant Ferris wheel add a lively end to your evening.

Dining and Entertainment: A Culinary and Cultural Feast

The buffet dinner is a major draw, with a wide selection that caters to various tastes. We loved the seafood options, like grilled river prawns, baked mussels, and salmon sashimi—fresh, well-prepared, and generous in portion. The menu also includes stir-fried dishes, Thai salads, soups, and Western favorites like spaghetti carbonara, ensuring there’s something for all.

Desserts are equally tempting, with Thai sweets, seasonal fruits, and assorted cakes. Reviewers have raved about the tasty food and beautiful presentation, noting that the buffet had plenty of variety. The cruise also provides welcome drinks, hot coffee or tea, and pouring water, creating a comfortable dining atmosphere.

Throughout the evening, a live band provides relaxing music, while a Thai classical performance adds cultural flair. One reviewer mentioned that the live music and Thai dancing created an engaging environment, with some even quoting their experience as “amazing” and reflecting on how the entertainment complemented the scenic views.

Practical Aspects and Tips

The cruise is well-organized with mobile tickets and near public transportation, making it accessible. The duration of about two hours is just enough to enjoy a leisurely dinner without feeling rushed. The group size, up to 320 guests, keeps things lively but not overcrowded.

While alcohol is not included, bringing your own or purchasing drinks separately might be a good idea if you want to enhance the experience. Also, the menu caters to dietary restrictions, so if you have food allergies or preferences, the staff can accommodate those needs.

A key consideration is the tide-dependent route, which could affect the visibility of some landmarks. However, the overall ambiance and lighting make for a stunning experience regardless.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise suits couples looking for a romantic evening, families wanting a relaxed, scenic dinner, and groups of friends seeking a memorable night out. It’s also perfect for those who want a taste of Bangkok’s culture combined with fine dining in a setting that’s both scenic and comfortable. If you appreciate delicious food, beautiful views, and live entertainment, this cruise delivers an enjoyable, value-packed experience.

Final Thoughts

The Smile Riverside Cruise offers a wonderful way to see the highlights of Bangkok’s riverside at night while enjoying a superior buffet and engaging cultural performances. For just under $35, you get a relaxed two-hour journey through some of the city’s most iconic sights, all set against the glowing backdrop of Bangkok’s illuminated skyline.

While it may not feature all the bells and whistles of more expensive cruises, its value, delicious food, and spectacular views make it an appealing choice for a broad range of travelers. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to experience Bangkok from a different perspective, this cruise is likely to leave you with cherished memories and plenty of photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for families with children?
Yes, children aged 1-3 can join for free when accompanied by a paying adult, and the price is reduced for children aged 4-10. The relaxed setting and entertainment make it family-friendly.

Does the cruise include alcohol?
No, alcohol beverages are not included in the price. You can plan to bring your own or purchase drinks separately if desired.

What dining options are available onboard?
You’ll enjoy a lavish international buffet featuring seafood, Thai dishes, pasta, salads, and desserts. There’s also hot coffee, tea, and welcome drinks.

Can I choose to dine outside on the open deck?
Yes, the cruise offers the option to dine under the stars on the open deck or in a cozy air-conditioned cabin, catering to different preferences.

What are the main landmarks visible from the cruise?
Expect to see the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Rama VIII Bridge, and views of ICONSIAM and the riverfront at night. Some landmarks might be less visible during low tide.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

In all, the Smile Riverside Cruise combines scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and delicious food into a memorable two-hour evening. If you’re after a relaxing yet impressive way to experience Bangkok, this cruise is a solid choice.