River Star Princess Dinner Cruise Tour from Bangkok

Imagine gliding along Bangkok’s famous Chao Phraya River aboard the sleek River Star Princess, a two-deck cruise ship designed for comfort and style. For around $37.70 per person, you get roughly two hours of gentle cruising past some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and the Rama VIII Bridge. The cruise starts at 7:30 pm from River City Bangkok, and the experience promises scenic views, a buffet dinner, live music, and cultural performances.

What we like about this experience is the chance to see Bangkok from a different perspective—gliding past glittering temples and buildings lit up at night. The panoramic views from the open-air upper deck are especially enjoyable if you want to feel the breeze and see the city skyline. Plus, the dinner buffet, featuring both Thai and international dishes, offers a convenient way to enjoy a variety of flavors as you relax on board. The live classical dance or Khon mask performances add a touch of cultural charm that’s often appreciated by visitors.

One potential drawback is the inconsistency in the experience, highlighted by a review from Ronald, who noted that the tour was canceled just an hour and a half before their scheduled time—an ordeal that understandably frustrated travelers. Also, while the food is generally considered good, the experience’s value can be affected by weather conditions or group size, as with many river cruises. Expect to pay extra if you want alcoholic beverages, as they are available for purchase onboard but not included.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic city views, cultural performances, and a relaxed evening atmosphere. If you’re looking for a memorable way to see Bangkok’s lights and enjoy a buffet, it could be a good fit—just be prepared for some variability in execution.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Bangkok’s landmarks from the river, especially at night.
• Includes a Thai and international buffet, with options for different tastes.
• Cultural shows, such as classical dance and Khon masks, add a cultural touch.
• Flexible pricing with alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard.
• Potential for last-minute cancellations, so check the policy before booking.
• Limited duration of roughly two hours makes it a quick, relaxed experience.

An In-Depth Look at the River Star Princess Dinner Cruise

Cruising along the Chao Phraya River offers a unique perspective of Bangkok that’s hard to match from land. With the River Star Princess, the experience combines the charm of a stylish boat with the convenience of a buffet dinner and entertainment. Priced at just under $40 per person, it’s an accessible way to enjoy an evening in Bangkok, especially if you’re keen on scenic views and cultural shows.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The cruise departs at 7:30 pm from River City Bangkok, a well-known spot easily accessible by public transportation. From there, you’ll settle into your seat—either inside the air-conditioned cabin or on the open-air upper deck for unobstructed views. This choice allows you to tailor your experience: inside if you prefer comfort and climate control, outside if you want to feel the breeze and see the river lights.

As you glide down the river, you’ll pass by Bangkok’s most famous landmarks. The Wat Arun temple’s spires glow softly at night, reflected in the water, creating a magical backdrop. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are visible from a distance, offering photo opportunities. You’ll also see the Rama VIII Bridge and the buzzing Asiatique The Riverfront, both beautifully illuminated and enhancing the nighttime scenery.

Food and Entertainment

One of the highlights is the buffet dinner. Offering both Thai and international cuisine, it caters to diverse palates, making it convenient for groups or families. The food quality seems generally satisfactory, with some reviews praising the delicious tapas-style dishes and variety. The buffet is served by candlelight, adding a romantic or festive atmosphere to the meal.

Throughout the cruise, a live music band plays, setting a relaxed mood. The cultural shows, including classical Thai dance and Khon mask performances, bring a touch of tradition to the evening. These performances are typically graceful and well-executed, adding a layer of authenticity to your experience.

The Atmosphere and View

The open-air upper deck is where we found the best views—golden lights flickering on the river, the reflected glow of temples, and the passing boats all add to the lively, serene ambiance. The gentle waves and the cool night air enhance the relaxing vibe. Inside, the air-conditioned cabin offers comfort if you prefer a calmer, less windy environment.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the cruise offers a lovely setting, the experience can feel somewhat inconsistent. As noted by Ronald, there’s always a risk of last-minute cancellations—something to keep in mind, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or celebrating a special occasion. The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance but offers no refund for cancellations within that window.

Plus, since alcohol isn’t included, drinking on board will cost extra. For some, this might be an added expense, especially if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience. The tour is also relatively short—about two hours—which is enough for a quick scenic overview but might leave those wanting more feeling a bit shortchanged.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic introduction to Bangkok’s riverfront at night. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy dining with a view, cultural performances, and a lively yet elegant atmosphere. However, those who value punctuality or are sensitive to last-minute changes might want to consider other options or confirm their booking carefully.

Final Thoughts

The River Star Princess Dinner Cruise offers a charming way to see Bangkok from the water, combining scenic views, a buffet, and cultural entertainment into a two-hour evening package. The vibrant city lights, the delicious food, and the elegant setting make it a pleasant, memorable experience if everything goes smoothly.

That said, it’s not without its uncertainties. Last-minute cancellations, extra costs for drinks, and the short duration mean you should approach this tour with realistic expectations. For travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic sights, and a touch of traditional entertainment, it can be a worthwhile addition to your Bangkok itinerary—just keep an eye on the details.

If you’re seeking a special night out with a view and are flexible about potential hiccups, this cruise could be a good choice. For those wanting a more reliable, seamless experience, exploring other river cruises or cultural tours might be advisable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 7:30 pm from River City Bangkok.

Is the price inclusive of food and entertainment?
Yes, the price includes a buffet dinner, live music, and cultural shows.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is available for purchase onboard but not included in the ticket price.

Can I choose to sit outside?
Yes, you can enjoy the open-air upper deck, which offers the best views of the river and city skyline.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
You’ll cruise past Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, the Rama VIII Bridge, and Asiatique The Riverfront.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the short duration and moderate price make it suitable for families seeking a relaxed evening.

What happens if the cruise gets canceled?
You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather or insufficient numbers.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately two hours, making it a quick and scenic outing in the evening.

Are there any group size limitations?
The tour can accommodate up to 200 travelers, so it’s relatively intimate but also popular.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is possible more than 24 hours before the start, but no refund if canceled within 24 hours.

To sum it up, the River Star Princess Dinner Cruise can be a charming way to unwind and enjoy Bangkok’s illuminated sights from the river. Just remember that last-minute cancellations and additional costs for drinks are possible downsides. If you’re flexible, appreciate good food, and seek a relaxing evening with cultural flair, this cruise offers a pleasant, scenic escape—perfect for a gentle introduction to Bangkok’s vibrant nightscape.