Chiang Mai isn’t just about temples and markets; it’s also a great place for boat tours and river cruises. The Mae Ping River offers a perfect backdrop for a peaceful ride where you can see traditional teak houses and lush countryside, making it a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. One standout experience is the Chiang Mai: Mae Ping River Cruise & Optional Transfer—a relaxing journey that combines scenic views with local flavor, including herb juice and ice cream, and visits to local farms. It’s ideal if you want a gentle introduction to the region’s rural life without straying too far from the city.
Many tours also include full-day trips to Chiang Rai with temple visits, boat rides on the Mekong River, and tribal villages, like the Chiang Rai Temples, Golden Triangle & Boat Tour or the Chiang Rai Full Day Tour from Chiang Mai + The Long Neck Hill Tribe With Boat. These combine cultural sights and river experiences, providing a comprehensive day out. If you prefer a more intimate experience, private rides like the Half Day Private Chiang Mai Trishaw Ride and Mae Ping River Cruise offer personalized attention and a chance to see Chiang Mai from a different angle.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of boat tours and cruises in Chiang Mai, from short river cruises to full-day excursions. You’ll find options that include scenic boat rides on the Mae Ping River, full-day trips exploring Chiang Rai’s temples and tribal villages, and private river cruises. Whether you want a quick scenic escape, a cultural deep dive, or a personalized private trip, these options provide practical and memorable experiences. Check out the full list below to find your perfect match.
1. Chiang Mai: Mae Ping River Cruise & Optional Transfer
At number 1, this Mae Ping River cruise combines relaxation and local charm in just 1-2 hours. Starting from Chiang Mai Province, the tour takes you along the river to see traditional teak houses and rural scenes, offering a true taste of Chiang Mai’s waterway life. The boat ride is complemented by visits to floating villages, a local farmhouse, and tasting herbal juice and ice cream loved by locals. The trip also includes a visit to a peaceful farm, giving insight into rural Thai farming life.
The tour is highly rated (4.6/5 from 240 reviews), with many praising its friendly guides and delicious food. One reviewer noted, “A great little trip. Really helpful tour guide who was both friendly and informative.” This is perfect for travelers who want a gentle, scenic experience without the fuss of a full-day outing. The value for money is excellent, with a modest price of $17 per person.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic boat ride with cultural stops and tasty local treats.
2. Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples, Golden Triangle & Boat Tour
This full-day adventure from Chiang Mai hits all the highlights of Chiang Rai, including the White Temple, Blue Temple, and the Black House. It also features a boat trip on the Mekong River at the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. The tour includes visits to the Karen Hill Tribe and provides lunch and entrance tickets, making it a hassle-free experience.
Rated 4.5/5 from over 200 reviews, travelers love the mix of cultural sights and river scenery. One reviewer mentioned, “Incredible! Visiting the tribes and temples was unforgettable.” It’s a great choice if you want a comprehensive day with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a full day of culture, stunning temples, and river views without worrying about logistics.
3. Chiang Rai Day Tour from Chiang Mai + The Long Neck Hill Tribe With Boat
For around $76.69, this day trip combines visits to Chiang Rai’s top sights, including the White Temple, Mae Khachan Hot Springs, and the Long Neck Karen Tribe. It’s a long, 12-14 hour tour, but it offers a deep dive into northern Thailand’s culture and natural beauty.
Traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll stop at Mae Khachan Hot Springs where you can boil an egg in thermal waters—an amusing experience. The tour also includes a visit to a Karen community village, providing a close look at tribal life. The White Temple is a highlight, with glowing white murals and reflective glass, and the hot springs offer a relaxing break.
Many reviewers appreciated the comprehensive itinerary, with some saying, “Perfect for those who want to see a lot in one day.” It’s best suited for travelers willing to spend a full day on the road.
Bottom line: Great for those eager to combine culture, nature, and tribal encounters, especially if visiting Chiang Rai in a day.
4. Sticky Waterfall Chiang Mai and Mae Ngat Boat Tour
This full-day tour (rated 5.0/5 from 11 reviews) takes you to the Sticky Waterfalls, one of Chiang Mai’s most unique natural attractions. It includes a boat trip on the Mae Ngat reservoir, visits to tranquil local villages, and a stop at Wat Ban Den, a stunning temple complex.
The highlight is the Sticky Waterfalls, where the mineral-rich sandstone allows for climbing and swimming in the natural pools. The tour’s diverse stops, from temple visits to rural markets, make it an enriching experience. Tour guide Saman is praised for his helpfulness, and reviewers say, “The waterfalls were incredible, and I learned a lot about local agriculture and Buddhism.”
This tour is perfect for travelers interested in nature and off-the-beaten-path sights combined with cultural exploration. The $61.11 price includes a mix of scenic adventure and cultural insight.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want a mix of natural wonder and rural charm in one day.
5. Chiang Rai Full Day Tour with Boat Trip and Longneck Village
For $77.06, this full-day tour covers all the main Chiang Rai highlights, including the White Temple, Golden Triangle, and Long Neck Karen Village. It’s a well-rounded trip that combines cultural, scenic, and tribal experiences.
The trip includes a boat ride on the Mekong River and visits to the hot springs and temples, with a focus on local tribal culture. Reviews mention the trip’s long but rewarding nature, with many noting the diverse sights and friendly guide.
It suits travelers who want an all-in-one day without the hassle of planning transportation and entrance logistics.
Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day exploring northern Thailand’s cultural and natural wonders.
6. Half Day Private Chiang Mai Trishaw Ride and Mae Ping River Cruise
This private, half-day experience combines a customized trishaw ride with a relaxing Mae Ping River cruise. For $95 per person, you get a VIP experience exploring Chiang Mai’s vintage architecture and secret spots.
Starting with a longtail boat ride along the river, you’ll enjoy views of traditional wooden houses and local life. The tour then continues with a trishaw ride passing through historic streets and stopping at landmarks like Tha Phae Gate and Wat Phra Singh. The personalized attention makes it ideal for travelers who want flexibility and a more intimate look at the city.
Guests describe it as “a VIP experience that covers everything from scenic river views to charming old streets.” It’s a pricier option but offers private comfort and tailored stops.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a personal, flexible day exploring Chiang Mai’s waterway and streets.
7. Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai: White-Black-Blue Temple-Golden Triangle-Keren-Boat Trip
This long day tour (around 13 hours, $77.51) hits all major spots in Chiang Rai, including the White Temple, Black House, Blue Temple, and Golden Triangle. It also features a boat trip on the Mekong River and a quick visit to the Karen Long Neck Tribe.
What sets this apart is its comprehensive itinerary—covering more than just temples—making it ideal for those short on time but eager to see diverse sights. The Black House is a surreal art collection by Thawan Duchanee, giving an artistic flavor to the trip.
Reviews mention the long drive but highlight the variety of sites and the value of seeing so much in one day. It’s best for travelers comfortable with a lengthy schedule.
Bottom line: Suited to travelers wanting a full immersion into northern Thailand’s art, temples, and tribal culture in one day.
How to Choose Your Boat Tour or Cruise in Chiang Mai
When deciding between these options, consider your time availability, interest in culture or nature, and budget. For a quick scenic escape, the Mae Ping River Cruise offers great value. If you’re after a full-day adventure exploring Chiang Rai’s temples and tribes, Tours like the Chiang Rai Full Day or White Temple and Golden Triangle are ideal. For personalized experiences, the private trishaw ride or the full-day Long Neck Village tour provide flexibility and comfort.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date. Also, think about the local experiences you want—whether it’s a relaxing boat trip, a cultural temple visit, or an immersive tribal experience.
Final Thoughts
Chiang Mai offers a surprising variety of boat and river experiences, from peaceful river cruises to full-day cultural explorations. Whether you prefer a short scenic trip on the Mae Ping River or an extensive journey that includes temples, tribal villages, and boat rides, there’s something for every traveler. The Chiang Mai: Mae Ping River Cruise provides a delightful introduction, while the full-day trips to Chiang Rai reveal northern Thailand’s diverse beauty.
For those seeking a personal touch, private tours like the Half Day Private Chiang Mai Trishaw Ride will make your day special. Whatever your interests, booking your tour in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Dive in and enjoy your water-bound adventures in Chiang Mai—these tours promise a mix of relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat.