Bangkok Meridian Dinner Cruise from ICONSIAM

Thinking of spending an evening cruising along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River? The Meridian Dinner Cruise from ICONSIAM promises a mix of stunning views, delicious food, and cultural entertainment. We’ve gathered real traveler insights and detailed info to help you decide if this experience is right for you.

What we love about this cruise:
First, the spectacular nighttime views of Bangkok’s landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun are truly picture-perfect. Second, the variety of buffet options including seafood, Thai classics, and international dishes makes it a good value for the price. Lastly, the live music and cultural shows add a lively, authentic touch, making it more than just a dinner.

A potential snag? Some reviewers note that seating arrangements can impact the overall experience, and not everyone gets a prime view or outdoor deck access. This isn’t unusual for river cruises, but it’s worth considering if the view is your priority.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic night out with good food and entertainment, especially if it’s their first time seeing Bangkok’s skyline at night.

Key Points

• Stunning Nighttime Views: See illuminated landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun from the river.
• Refreshments Included: Welcome drink, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and a buffet with seafood, Thai, and international options.
• Cultural Entertainment: Live Thai classical music and traditional performances enhance the experience.
• Flexible Viewing: Access to open-air decks and the option to enjoy views from inside, though seat choice impacts visibility.
• Affordable Price Point: At around $33.50 per person, it offers solid value considering the scenery, food, and entertainment.
• Seating Variability: Some guests report less ideal seating, especially during busy times or last-minute bookings.

A Detailed Look at the Bangkok Meridian Dinner Cruise

Starting Out: Check-in and Departure

The cruise begins at ICONSIAM, a major shopping and entertainment complex on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before the 7:30 pm departure time — plenty of time to check in, grab your welcome drink, and settle into your table. The check-in process, as some reviews mention, can differ slightly from what’s described online, but most found it straightforward, especially with the proximity to public transportation.

The Vessel and Seating

The Meridian cruise boat features two levels with options for indoor and outdoor seating. While the descriptions mention an open-air deck, some guests report that actual seating arrangements can vary — especially if you book last minute. One review detailed being seated towards the back in a lower level near the toilets, with scratched plexiglass windows that spoil the view. Others mention that if you’re lucky, you can sit on the main deck with clear sightlines.

It’s worth noting that seating impacts the experience significantly. Guests seated away from the windows or inside might find it harder to enjoy the cityscape and landmarks. Some reviewers suggest that the best views are on the upper outdoor decks, but these spots can fill quickly, particularly during peak times or with large groups.

The Scenic Tour: Landmarks and Highlights

Once underway, the cruise offers a gentle but captivating journey along Bangkok’s river, passing under the Rama VIII Bridge and past key sites like the National Museum of Royal Barges.

The illuminated skyline is truly the star of the show. Travelers can gaze out over the Grand Palace, which served as the official residence of Thai royalty until 1925, and the shimmering temples of Wat Arun, often called the ‘Temple of Dawn’. The elaborate lighting makes for perfect photo ops, and reviews affirm that the sight of these landmarks at night is a highlight.

Some guests mention that the cruise also passes by Wat Phra Kaeo and Wat Kalayanamitr Varamahavihara, which are beautifully lit and add to the overall visual feast. The boat glides smoothly under the Rama VIII Bridge, offering a different perspective of the city’s skyline.

Food and Beverage Offerings

The buffet dinner is a major draw. At around $33.50, the price includes an international buffet with seafood and soft drinks, plus coffee and tea. Multiple reviews mention the variety and quality of the food — “delicious and a great variety,” says one guest. The buffet includes Thai dishes as well as international options, catering to a range of tastes.

However, some reviews warn about the buffet temperature — “a lot of the food was cold,” one reviewer mentions, which can be a concern if you’re hungry and expecting hot dishes. The inclusion of seafood is a plus for seafood lovers, although a couple of guests report that the buffet could be better, and some dishes may not be served hot.

Entertainment and Cultural Shows

The onboard entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere. You’ll experience live Thai classical music performed by a band, which some reviewers describe as lively and engaging. There are also traditional Thai dance and cultural performances, providing a taste of local artistry.

Guests who appreciated the entertainment say it enhances the overall vibe, making the cruise more memorable. One guest reflected, “The dance and traditional Thai customs put on to entertain us” — adding a unique cultural touch to the evening.

The Open-Air Deck and Final Moments

The cruise’s open-air deck is a highlight for many. It provides panoramic views that are difficult to match from inside. Still, some reviews note that this area can be crowded or filled with tables, making it hard to find a good spot for taking photos or enjoying the view.

As the cruise winds down, you’ll pass back under the Rama VIII bridge to return to ICONSIAM. The entire experience lasts roughly two hours, perfect for a relaxed evening without feeling rushed.

What Travelers Say: Honest Perspectives

While many reviews praise the delicious food, charismatic guides, and stunning scenery, some mention issues worth considering. Several guests shared that seating can be unpredictable; one reviewer lamented being seated next to the toilets with a scratched window obscuring the view, which significantly impacted their experience.

Others appreciated the value for money, noting that the buffet, entertainment, and views create a good overall package. “Enjoyable and value for money,” one said, “lovely food and fun atmosphere.” Conversely, a few felt the experience didn’t live up to expectations, citing cold food, limited drinks (only water was consistently available, despite promises of cocktails), and the inability to choose a preferred seat.

A critical review pointed out that some seats offer poor vantage points, especially if you’re seated downstairs or during a private event. This highlights the importance of arriving early and requesting the best available spot if possible.

Notable Review Highlights:

• “The tour was excellent, with delicious food and great entertainment,” says one happy guest.
• “It was a very relaxing dinner, with fabulous music and beautiful views,” echoes another.
• Several reviews mention that the live music and cultural performances add a lively, festive atmosphere.
• Conversely, some travelers warn about cold buffet food and less-than-ideal seating, which can diminish the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

Booking and Price: At around $33.50 per person, the cruise offers decent value, especially considering the scenic views and live entertainment included. Booking 15 days in advance seems typical, but last-minute seats might be less desirable due to seating variability.

Duration and Timing: The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, departing at 7:30 pm. The timing allows you to enjoy the illuminated cityscape at night, but it also means you’ll want to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or busy nights.

Meeting Point: The check-in location is ICONSIAM’s Sooksiam zone (G Floor, Pier 2). It’s conveniently close to public transport, which makes reaching the departure point straightforward.

Inclusions and Extras: The tour includes a welcome drink, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and a buffet dinner. Alcoholic drinks are included in the welcome beverage, but additional drinks or tips are not covered.

Seating and Comfort: Considering the mixed reviews on seating, arriving early is recommended. If you prefer outdoor views, request a seat on the upper deck early in the booking process or upon check-in.

Accessibility and Child Policy: Children aged 4-10 years and less than 120 cm tall are charged at a child rate, making it family-friendly for some. Check-in and the cruise are accessible for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should verify the specific arrangements.

Weather and Cancellations: Since this experience depends on good weather, cancellations due to rain are possible, but full refunds or alternative dates are offered if that occurs.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a relaxed evening of scenic views, good food, and cultural entertainment, this cruise provides a worthwhile experience. The price point makes it accessible, and the combination of landmarks, live music, and buffet is appealing.

However, do keep in mind that seating arrangements can vary, and some guests may find the buffet temperatures or limited drinks disappointing. If you’re after a top-tier view, arrive early or specifically request an outdoor seat.

This tour is best suited for:

• First-time visitors wanting a scenic overview of Bangkok at night
• Couples or groups looking for a relaxed, enjoyable evening
• Those who value live Thai performances and a lively atmosphere
• Travelers who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability with seating or buffet quality

Who might want to skip this tour?

If you’re highly focused on perfect views, or seeking a luxurious, private experience, you might find better options elsewhere. Also, if you’re a foodie expecting hot dishes, prepare for some buffet surprises.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-10 years and under 120 cm tall are charged at a child rate, making it family-friendly.

Do I need to arrange my own transport?
Yes, you should make your way to ICONSIAM’s G Floor Pier 2 for check-in; the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers a welcome drink, soft drinks, coffee, tea, buffet dinner (including seafood), live music, cultural performances, and access to open-air decks.

Can I choose my seating?
Not directly; seating is assigned upon check-in. Early arrival can help you secure a better seat, preferably on the upper outdoor deck.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled because of rain, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Are drinks included after the welcome beverage?
No, additional alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks are not included. Be prepared for extra charges if you want more.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is fine, but smart casual is recommended for a more polished look.

Will I see all the major landmarks?
Most of Bangkok’s iconic sites along the river are visible, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the Royal Barges Museum, especially in the evening light.

In The Sum Up, the Bangkok Meridian Dinner Cruise from ICONSIAM offers an affordable way to see Bangkok’s sparkle from the river, combined with good food and lively entertainment. It’s ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy the city’s nightscape without fuss or formality. Keep expectations realistic regarding seating and buffet quality, and you’ll likely leave with some memorable photos and stories.