Golden Sunset White Orchid River Cruise from ICONSIAM

A Look at the Golden Sunset White Orchid River Cruise from ICONSIAM

If you’re craving a peaceful yet visually captivating way to spend an evening in Bangkok, the Golden Sunset White Orchid River Cruise offers a comfortable way to combine sightseeing, dining, and a touch of entertainment. Priced at around $28.50 per person, this 1.5-hour cruise departs from the bustling ICONSIAM mall, a modern shopping and cultural hub. Led by a friendly crew (though their names aren’t specified), the cruise navigates along the Chao Phraya River, showcasing iconic sights like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace in a relaxed, dinner setting.

What we appreciate most about this experience is the luxurious setting—the boat itself feels upscale enough to enhance the special feel of a sunset sail. The lavish buffet featuring seafood, Thai, and Western dishes delights the senses, and the live music adds an enjoyable soundtrack to the evening. Plus, the spectacular river views—especially at sunset—make for memorable photographs and a serene escape from Bangkok’s busy streets.

However, it’s worth noting that some may find the food temperature and flavor slightly lacking, as one review mentioned the dishes were “barely warm” and “bland by Thai standards.” Also, with only beer included and soft drinks charged extra, it may not be the best choice if you’re hoping for a fully inclusive alcohol experience.

This cruise works well for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Bangkok’s riverside sights in a relaxed setting, or for those looking for a gentle evening activity with a lively, yet elegant ambiance. If you’re after a more authentic or immersive cultural experience, this might feel a bit on the surface, but for a hassle-free, scenic evening, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Elegant setting: The cruise’s upscale atmosphere makes it suitable for a special night out.
• Iconic views: You’ll see Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and other landmarks illuminated at sunset.
• Good value: At around $28.50, it includes a buffet, live music, and scenic cruising, offering decent bang for your buck.
• Food and drinks: The buffet includes a variety of Thai and Western dishes, but the temperature and flavor may vary.
• Entertainment: Live music and cabaret shows on deck add a lively touch, though some may find the sights along the route limited.
• Limitations: Soft drinks are extra, and the food might disappoint those expecting authentic Thai flavors or warm dishes.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect on the White Orchid River Cruise

Departure and Setting Off from ICONSIAM

The journey begins at ICONSIAM, a sleek, modern mall that’s easy to reach via public transportation. The meeting time is 5:00 pm, giving you just enough time to soak in the lively atmosphere of Bangkok as the city transitions from day to night. From here, you’ll board the White Orchid, a boat that exudes a sense of style and comfort, creating an ideal backdrop for an evening of leisure.

Once aboard, the crew greets you with a welcome drink—a simple gesture that sets a pleasant tone. The boat’s spacious decks are designed for optimal viewing, with ample seating and areas to enjoy the scenery.

The Itinerary and Landmark Highlights

While this is primarily a dinner cruise, it’s much more than a meal. The cruise’s route includes several notable stops and sights that help you grasp Bangkok’s riverside charm.

• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Known for its colorful porcelain spires, this temple looks especially striking at sunset, making it a favorite for river cruise photography. You might find yourself captivated by its intricate design reflected on the water.
• Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: These icons of Thai culture shine under the evening sky, their golden spires and glittering architecture visible from the river, offering a glimpse into Bangkok’s regal past.
• Rama VIII Bridge: An impressive modern structure with golden cables, this bridge adds a contemporary touch to the skyline—you’ll likely get some good photos of its silhouette against the sunset.

Some reviews mention that the sights are not en route in an in-depth manner—meaning the cruise focuses more on ambiance than a detailed sightseeing tour. Still, the views from the boat are stunning enough to make the experience worthwhile.

Dining Experience

The buffet features a diverse menu, with fresh seafood, Thai favorites like Pad Thai and curry, and Western dishes such as baked chicken and pasta. The Mixgrill Station offers grilled shrimp, scallops, mussels, and more—perfect for seafood lovers. There’s also a variety of appetizers, salads, and desserts like fresh fruit and Thai sweets.

One reviewer noted that the food was barely warm and somewhat bland, which might be disappointing if you’re expecting authentic Thai flavors or a culinary highlight. Still, the selection is generous—enough to satisfy most appetites—especially considering the two-hour duration.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Live music and cabaret shows keep the mood lively, especially on the upper deck. The music provides a soothing soundtrack, and the performers add a touch of glamour. The overall ambiance is relaxed, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet captivating evening.

Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

While the experience is generally pleasurable, some travelers find that the sights en route are limited, and the food doesn’t quite meet expectations for flavor or temperature. One reviewer succinctly said, “It’s ok I suppose,” highlighting that this cruise is more about the experience than a spectacular sightseeing tour.

The cost is reasonable, but if you’re hoping for a full bar experience or more authentic Thai flavors, you might need to look elsewhere or pay extra. The soft drinks are charged separately, which adds a small inconvenience.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors to Bangkok seeking a relaxing evening with iconic views and live entertainment. It’s also a solid choice for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy the river at sunset without the hassle of planning a full day’s tour.

If you’re looking for a more immersive cultural experience or want to explore Bangkok’s lesser-known sights, this cruise might feel a bit superficial. But for a well-priced, scenic, and comfortable way to spend an evening, it delivers on many fronts.

The Sum Up

The Golden Sunset White Orchid River Cruise offers a relaxing, scenic way to experience Bangkok’s riverside landmarks without leaving the comfort of a well-appointed boat. Its value lies in the combination of beautiful views, decent food, and live entertainment, making it an attractive option for those wanting a laid-back evening.

While the food quality may not wow everyone and the sights are somewhat limited, the overall atmosphere and the chance to see Bangkok’s stunning temples illuminated at sunset make this a worthwhile experience—especially if you’re after a romantic or memorable night.

This cruise is particularly suited to first-timers, couples, or groups looking for a simple yet elegant introduction to Bangkok’s beauty from the river. If your priority is authenticity or a hearty culinary experience, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re after value, comfort, and iconic views in a relaxed setting, this cruise hits the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The cruise features a 2-hour dinner, welcome drink, a buffet with Thai and international dishes, and live music onboard.

Are drinks included?
Beer is included in the price, but soft drinks and additional alcohol are charged separately. You can request alcoholic beverages for an extra fee.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The departure point is ICONSIAM at 299 Charoen Nakhon Road. The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours and returns to the same location.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before departure are not refundable.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Children aged 4-10 pay a child rate, while those under 3 join free. It’s not recommended for children under 1 year old.

What should I expect in terms of sights?
While the cruise offers beautiful views of Wat Arun, Grand Palace, and the Rama VIII Bridge, the sights are mostly seen from the boat rather than being closely explored.

If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic way to end a day in Bangkok with good food and memorable views, the White Orchid River Cruise provides a comfortable option. Just keep expectations aligned—this is more about the ambiance and environment than an in-depth cultural tour.