Meridian Dinner Cruise in Bangkok (Weekends)

Taking in Bangkok from the vantage point of the Chao Phraya River can be a highlight of any trip—if the experience is worth the price and expectations. The Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise promises a scenic two-hour journey with a buffet dinner, live music, and views of some of Thailand’s most famous landmarks. But as with many tourist experiences, it’s important to look beyond the surface and understand what you’re signing up for.

What we love about this cruise: the opportunity to see Bangkok’s riverside attractions illuminated at sunset, the chance to enjoy a diverse buffet with international flavors, and the relaxing ambiance created by live music. The setting at ICONSIAM, a renowned shopping center, adds to the convenience.

One consideration: the reviews reveal that poor management, especially regarding guest placement, can dampen the experience. If you’re particular about comfort and a seamless experience, this is something to keep in mind.

Who might enjoy this: travelers seeking a scenic overview of Bangkok’s key sights, especially those new to the city or interested in combining sightseeing with a leisurely dinner. But those expecting luxury or a perfectly managed experience might need to brace for some hiccups.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Pass by Bangkok’s iconic landmarks like Wat Arun, Grand Palace, and King Rama I Bridge at sunset.
• Practical Dining: Enjoy a buffet dinner offering Thai and international dishes in a romantic setting.
• Limited Duration: The cruise lasts around 2 hours, perfect for a relaxed evening but not overly lengthy.
• Management Concerns: One reviewer pointed out poor guest placement, which suggests some unpredictability in service quality.
• Comfort & Group Size: The cruise is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere.
• Certification: The operator is SHA Plus certified, indicating adherence to COVID-19 health protocols.

An In-Depth Look at the Meridian Dinner Cruise Experience

Embarking at ICONSIAM: Starting Point and First Impressions

Your journey begins at ICONSIAM, one of Bangkok’s top shopping destinations, conveniently located with nearby public transportation options. Check-in occurs between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm at the Meridian Cruises counter, with boarding at 4:50 pm. The early check-in is helpful, but some reviewers have noted that even arriving early doesn’t guarantee a good spot onboard. You might find yourself assigned a less desirable location, which can impact your overall enjoyment.

The Cruise Itself: A Scenic Two-Hour Voyage

At 5:00 pm, the cruise kicks off with a warm welcome and a chance to settle into your spot. The boat is designed to showcase Bangkok’s most famed riverside sights. As it moves gently along the river, you’ll pass the King Rama I Bridge, Wat Kalayanamitre (famous for its Big Buddha), Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), the Grand Palace, and the King’s residence. These visuals, especially at sunset, are quite captivating and offer a different perspective than viewing from land.

Dining Experience: Buffet with a View

The buffet opens at the start of the cruise, featuring a mix of Thai and international options. It’s designed to cater to diverse tastes, with appetizers, main courses, and desserts. The setting is intended to be romantic and relaxing, with live music enhancing the atmosphere.

However, some reviews suggest that the quality and variety of the buffet may not always meet high expectations. While the concept is promising, the actual execution might feel somewhat lacking—especially if you’re craving authentic Thai flavors or a gourmet experience.

Live Music and Entertainment: A Nice Touch

Professional musicians perform during the cruise, adding to the ambiance. The live music is appreciated by many guests, providing a soothing soundtrack to the river views. It’s a nice touch that elevates the experience from simply sightseeing to a more memorable, relaxed evening.

The Return Journey: Cruising Back to ICONSIAM

At around 7:00 pm, the cruise begins its return to ICONSIAM. The journey back offers more chances to view the landmarks illuminated against the night sky. But, as one reviewer noted, the experience can be marred by issues with guest placement and management, which might mean less comfort or privacy than expected.

Authentic Insights from Guest Experiences

One review sums up disappointment with the statement: “Even though we checked in early, we were assigned a very very bad location. This shows poor management and lack of consideration for guests.” Such comments highlight that, despite the beautiful views and ambiance, organizational flaws can negatively influence the overall experience.

Another guest mentioned that they would never book Meridian Cruise again, emphasizing the importance of a well-run operation. This points to the fact that, while the cruise offers stunning scenery and a charming setting, the execution may sometimes fall short.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for those who prioritize scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere over flawless service. It’s ideal if you’re after a romantic sunset, enjoy live music, and want a casual dining experience onboard. But if you’re looking for a highly polished, exclusive event, you might find this cruise more average than exceptional.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

• Timing: The cruise departs around 5:00 pm, so arriving early is advised, but be prepared for potential seating issues.
• Duration: At approximately 2 hours, it fits well into an evening plan without being overly long.
• Cost: At $52.14 per person, the price includes a buffet dinner, live music, and a scenic cruise. Consider whether the value is worth the organizational quirks.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 guests, which can foster a more intimate vibe but also means less flexibility in group arrangements.
• Special Dates: The cruise isn’t available on Loy Krathong, Valentine’s, New Year, or Christmas Eve, and surcharges may apply for these dates.
• Covid-19 Protocols: The operator is SHA Plus certified, offering some peace of mind regarding health safety.

Final Thoughts: Is the Meridian Dinner Cruise Worth It?

For travelers seeking a laid-back way to see Bangkok’s iconic riverside landmarks, this cruise offers a convenient and scenic option. The views of Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and the Rama VIII Bridge at sunset are genuinely memorable. The inclusion of live music and a buffet adds to the relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

However, the experience’s overall value can be affected by management issues, particularly guest placement, which has been a point of frustration for some. The buffet’s quality and variety might also leave some guests wanting more, especially those expecting a gourmet meal.

If you’re flexible and open-minded, and you’re not overly concerned about perfect organization, this cruise can be a pleasant addition to your Bangkok itinerary. But if seamless service and comfort are your priorities, it might be worth exploring other options or preparing for some potential hiccups.

FAQs

Is the Meridian Dinner Cruise suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the cruise is designed to be accessible and limited to 15 guests, fostering a cozy atmosphere. However, those expecting luxury or flawless organization may be disappointed.

What does the cruise include?
The package features a welcome drink, a buffet dinner with Thai and international options, a 90-minute sunset cruise passing major landmarks, and live music performed by professional musicians.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses are not included. The tour does not operate on certain holidays, such as Loy Krathong, Valentine’s, New Year, or Christmas Eve, and surcharges could apply on these dates.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It departs from ICONSIAM, one of Bangkok’s most famous shopping centers, with the activity concluding back at the same location.

What should I expect during the cruise?
Expect scenic views of Bangkok’s riverside landmarks at sunset, an international buffet dinner, and live music. Be prepared for the possibility of less-than-ideal seating arrangements, depending on management.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, most travelers can enjoy this experience, but it’s best suited for those looking for a relaxed, scenic evening rather than a highly curated or luxury experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Meridian Dinner Cruise offers a lovely way to see Bangkok from the river, especially if you’re after a relaxed, scenic evening with good food and music. Just keep in mind that management issues have been noted, so temper expectations regarding organization and service quality. Overall, it’s a decent option for those wanting an easy, enjoyable river cruise but may fall short for travelers expecting a flawless, high-end experience.