About this activity
Editor's Note
I’ve spent a good decade watching travel brands try to squeeze every last drop of revpar out of the Chao Phraya, often packing tourists onto rusted "luxury" boats like sardines. It's refreshing, frankly, to see a newcomer like The Planet actually deliver on the hype without the usual corporate soul-sucking atmosphere. While most operators are busy chasing leads and cutting costs on their buffets, this cruise manages to balance that high-end "brand new" feel with a vibe that's actually, well, fun. Is the industry finally realizing that travelers want more than just a lukewarm Pad Thai and a view? Maybe. If you’re timing your visit for the Vijit Chao Phraya festival, you’re basically gaming the system—getting front-row seats to drone shows that cost the city millions, all while sipping a welcome drink. It’s a smart move in a city that’s usually too crowded for its own good.
About the Tour
When the sun dips below the horizon in Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River transforms into a liquid stage. The Planet isn't just another boat; it is a three-deck luxury vessel designed specifically to showcase the "River of Kings" in its best light. Whether you choose the golden hour of the Sunset Cruise or the glittering dark of the Dinner Cruise, you’re in for a Masterclass in riverside sightseeing.
The Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 Special
If you are lucky enough to book between November 9 and December 23 (Friday–Sunday), you'll witness the Vijit Chao Phraya 2025. This annual festival turns the river into an outdoor gallery. From your vantage point on the open-air rooftop, you will see:
- Massive Drone Shows: Between 500 and 1,000 drones painting the sky.
- Waterfall Fireworks: Cascading sparks over the water.
- Light Displays: The city’s history told through projection mapping and lasers.
Landmarks and Luxury
As the boat glides, you'll pass Bangkok’s "Greatest Hits." The silhouette of Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), the majestic Grand Palace, and the modern architectural marvel of ICONSIAM provide a backdrop that no land-based restaurant can match.
The onboard experience is just as curated. A live band keeps the mood swinging between romantic and energetic, and the international buffet serves up a legitimate spread of Thai, Asian, and Western dishes. But the real kicker? The staff. When the right song hits, the whole crew breaks into a synchronized dance—it’s infectious, slightly chaotic in the best way, and makes you forget you're on a "tour."
Note: Always look for "The Planet" English sign at Pier 1 to avoid the usual pier confusion. This is one of the few cruises where the occupancy feels well-managed, giving you actual space to breathe and take those panoramic shots.
Highlights
- Experience a brand-new 3-deck cruise with open-air rooftop views
- Admire Bangkok’s iconic illuminated landmarks along the Chao Phraya River
- Enjoy an international buffet with live band music in a romantic atmosphere
- Choose from Sunset, Dinner, or New Year Cruise packages to suit your needs
- Year-end discounts available this month — special promotional rates
Know before you go
- Exchange ticket: Asiatique The Riverfront Warehouse 7-8
- Sunset Cruise
- Ticket exchange time: 04.00 pm - 05.00 pm
- Boarding time: 05.00 pm - 05.15 pm
- Cruise time: 05.15 pm - 06.45 pm at Pier 1
- Dinner Cruise
- Ticket exchange time: 06.00 pm - 07.50 pm
- Boarding time: 07.50 pm - 08.00 pm
- Cruise time: 08.00 pm - 10.00 pm at Pier 1
What to bring
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
Starting location:
Asiatique The Riverfront
Sightseeing cruise
(2 hours)
Chao Phraya River
Dinner, Meal onboard, Scenic views on the way, Traditional dance show (2 hours)
River City Bangkok
Pass by
Wat Pho
Pass by
Grand Palace Bangkok
Pass by
Rama VIII Bridge
Pass by
Wat Arun
Pass by
Santa Cruz Church
Pass by
Thammasat University
Pass by
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
Pass by
ICONSIAM
Pass by
Arrive back at:
Asiatique The Riverfront