Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok

<h3 id="section-0">What’s in this review?

We’re taking a detailed look at the Smile Riverside Cruise, a popular evening journey along Bangkok’s famous Chao Phraya River. This cruise combines sightseeing, fine dining, and entertainment, making it a favorite option for those wanting a relaxed yet luxurious experience of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

What we love about this experience:
– The stunning views of Bangkok’s illuminated skyline, including landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.
– The lavish international seafood buffet that offers fresh salmon sashimi, grilled river prawns, baked mussels, and a variety of desserts.
– The live music and Thai performances, adding authentic cultural flair to the night.

A possible consideration:
The cruise lasts around 2 hours, which might feel a little rushed if you’re eager to explore the city on foot. Also, alcohol beverages are not included, so expect to pay extra if you want drinks beyond water and soft drinks.

This tour suits couples, families, or groups looking for a memorable night with scenic views and great food without the hassle of city traffic. If you want to combine sightseeing with a fancy dinner, this cruise fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury: At around $34.80 per person, it offers good value considering the included buffet, entertainment, and river views.
• Flexible dining: Options to sit inside in a cozy air-conditioned cabin or enjoy the open deck under the stars.
• Prime locations: Stops at top attractions like ICONSIAM, River City Bangkok, Wat Arun, and the Grand Palace.
• Authentic entertainment: Thai classical performances and live music make the experience lively and culturally enriching.
• Family friendly: Children aged 1-3 are free, making it a great outing for families.
• Good advance booking: Most tend to book about 12 days early, reflecting its popularity.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The cruise begins at ICONSIAM Pier 4, a prime riverside location easily accessible via public transportation. The meeting time is at 7:15 pm, which means you’ll get to enjoy Bangkok’s lively evening atmosphere just before boarding. The cruise lasts roughly 2 hours, so plan for a relaxed, yet well-paced evening.

Why the Location Matters

Iconsiam is the perfect starting point, sitting right next to luxury shopping and the vibrant SookSiam market. It sets the tone for an elegant night, with the boat departing just as the city lights begin to sparkle. The journey takes you past landmarks like the Rama VIII Bridge, whose design is especially striking at sunset and evening, and offers an excellent opportunity for photos.

The Itinerary – A Tour of Bangkok’s Riverside Gems

The cruise makes several stops at some of Bangkok’s most famous riverside attractions:

• River City Bangkok: Known for its art and antiques, this spot is ideal for art lovers or souvenir hunters. While it’s not a formal sightseeing stop, the views from the boat here are scenic and give a taste of Bangkok’s cultural scene.
• ICONSIAM: The highlight for many, this luxurious shopping complex combines high-end retail, gourmet dining, and cultural exhibitions. From the boat, the design of ICONSIAM is stunning, especially at night.
• Siriraj Museum: An intriguing stop that offers insight into Thailand’s medical history and innovations. The museum’s exhibits are interactive, making it a more educational part of the cruise for those interested in the country’s scientific progress.
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Perhaps the most photographed site along the river, its colorful porcelain-adorned spire is even more striking lit up at night. You’ll get a great view whether you’re on deck or inside.
• The Grand Palace: An absolute must-see, this majestic complex is a grand reminder of Thailand’s royal heritage. The boat’s vantage point offers a unique perspective of its intricate architecture.
• Rama VIII Bridge: The cable-stayed bridge with its golden spire provides a dramatic backdrop, especially at sunset or night when lit up.
• Asiatique the Riverfront: A lively market and entertainment hub, this spot combines shopping, dining, and entertainment options, perfect for a post-cruise stroll or a quick visit.
• Taksin Bridge: The final photo op, especially at dusk, with a panoramic view of Bangkok’s skyline.

The Buffet and Food Quality

The international buffet stands out as a major highlight. It features a broad selection, including fresh salmon sashimi, grilled river prawns, baked mussels with butter, and assorted sushi, catering well to seafood lovers. The menu also includes Thai favorites like papaya salad, spicy prawn soup, salads, and desserts like assorted cakes, Thai sweets, and seasonal fruits.

Reviewers have raved about the tastiness and variety of the food, with one mentioning “lots of tasty food like seafood, pasta, and desserts.” The buffet is served on board, either inside an air-conditioned cabin or outside on the open deck, which is perfect for enjoying the nighttime breeze and river views.

Entertainment and Cultural Performances

Live music and Thai traditional dances add a lively, authentic touch. The Thai classical performance is engaging, and the music blends well with the river ambiance. The entertainment feels curated to give a taste of local culture while maintaining a relaxed vibe, making the experience more memorable.

Comfort and Atmosphere

The cruise’s two seating options cater to different preferences. Inside, the air-conditioned cabin offers a comfortable escape from Bangkok’s heat, while the open deck provides a more romantic, starry setting. Many reviewers note that the views from the deck are fantastic — you’ll love the way the city’s lights reflect on the river, creating a magical scene.

Group Size and Booking

Most travelers book about 12 days in advance, which suggests this is a popular choice. The cruise accommodates up to 320 guests, making it sufficiently spacious but still lively. Smaller groups will enjoy the intimate feel, while larger groups can experience the bustling, vibrant atmosphere.

Price and Value

At $34.80 per person, this cruise offers reasonable value considering the included buffet, entertainment, and sightseeing. Food quality, especially the seafood options, has been praised, and the scenic views make the price worthwhile. Extra costs are mainly for alcohol beverages, which are not included, so if you plan to drink, bring some cash for drinks or buy at the onboard bar.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The meeting point at ICONSIAM is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children aged 1-3 (who ride free). Just remember, the cruise might not pass certain landmarks during high or low tides, which could affect the views but generally shouldn’t detract from the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a blend of scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and good food. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, families looking for an enjoyable evening, or groups of friends wanting a social yet relaxed experience.

If you love stunning night views of Bangkok’s landmarks, a delicious seafood buffet, and live cultural performances, this cruise checks all those boxes. However, if you prefer a more active sightseeing day or want a fully guided tour of the city’s history, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Smile Riverside Cruise offers a thoughtful way to enjoy Bangkok’s riverfront in style. For around $35, you get a two-hour glide past some of the city’s most famous sights, combined with a hearty seafood buffet, live music, and traditional performances. It’s a relaxing, elegant way to see the city’s illuminated skyline, especially if you’re tired of walking or navigating busy streets.

While it’s not a full sightseeing tour, it’s a fantastic complement to a day of exploring Bangkok’s temples and markets. The views, food, and atmosphere make it a memorable evening that many travelers find well worth the investment.

This cruise shines brightest for those who want a luxurious yet accessible experience that combines scenery, culture, and great food in one smooth package. It’s best for visitors who appreciate a relaxed pace and are looking to create special memories without the hustle of daytime sightseeing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 1-3 can join for free when accompanied by a paying adult, making it family-friendly.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the luxury buffet dinner, welcome drink, hot coffee and tea, pouring water, live music, and Thai cultural performances.

Are alcohol beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included in the package. You can purchase drinks separately onboard if desired.

Can I choose to sit outside on the deck?
Yes, there are options to dine either in the cozy air-conditioned cabin or outside on the open deck, which is ideal for enjoying the views and breeze.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
You will pass landmarks like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, the Rama VIII Bridge, and the beautifully lit-up Bangkok skyline.

What should I wear or bring?
Smart casual is appropriate. Consider bringing a jacket if you plan to sit outside, especially during cooler evenings, and have some cash handy for extra drinks or souvenirs.

In summary, the Smile Riverside Cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to spend an evening in Bangkok. With stunning views, tasty seafood, and engaging entertainment, it’s a good pick for those who want to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury. Whether celebrating a special event or simply wanting a memorable night out, this cruise ticks many boxes for a fair price.