About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I've spent a decade watching the Bangkok river scene become a bit of a "RevPAR" arms race where every boat tries to out-glitz the other. Usually, I'd tell you these buffet cruises are just tourist traps designed to fill occupancy quotas, but the White Orchid is a bit of an outlier that actually delivers on the vibe. While most operators charge a premium for every drop of liquid, these guys lean into the "social" aspect—which is industry speak for "we know you want to have a good time without checking your wallet every five minutes." It's not the Orient Express of the water, and thank god for that; it's lively, a bit loud, and the free-flow beer ensures the lead-to-booking ratio stays high for a reason. If you’re looking for a quiet, introspective evening, this isn't it, but if you want to see the skyline without the usual stuffy pretense, it’s a solid bet.
About the Tour
Cruising the Chao Phraya is practically a rite of passage in Bangkok, but the White Orchid adds a layer of high-energy entertainment that sets it apart from the more "corporate" alternatives. With three distinct decks to explore, including a massive 360° open-air top deck, you get a front-row seat to the city’s illuminated icons without feeling cramped.
What to Expect Onboard
The evening begins with a refreshing welcome drink as you board, immediately transitioning into a night of Thai hospitality and performance art. Unlike smaller vessels, the White Orchid is designed for movement; you aren't stuck at your table all night. You can wander between the buffet and the railing to catch views of:
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Glowing in gold against the night sky.
- The Grand Palace: A sprawling masterpiece of Thai architecture.
- Rama VIII Bridge: A modern engineering marvel that looks spectacular when lit.
Dining and "Free-Flow" Perks
The centerpiece of the evening is the international buffet. It’s a generous spread featuring a mix of traditional Thai favorites and Western staples. However, the real draw for many is the unlimited beer, which fosters a much more relaxed, social atmosphere than you'll find on the more formal "fine-dining" cruises.
Entertainment & Atmosphere
The White Orchid doesn't do "background music." The night is packed with programming:
- Classical Thai Dance: Elegant and traditional (available on the night cruise).
- Live Music & Disco: Transitioning the evening from a dinner setting into a floating party.
- Cabaret Show: High-energy performances that are a staple of Thai nightlife.
Pro Tip: The cabaret performers are happy to take photos with guests after the show. While not mandatory, it’s a standard industry practice to offer a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for their talent.
Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just want to see the city lights with a cold drink in hand, the White Orchid provides a fun, "no-stress" way to experience the river magic.
Highlights
- Treat your taste buds to a buffet dinner of Thai and international dishes
- Admire the sights of Bangkok's Chao Phraya Riverbank as you dine onboard
- Enjoy live music, cabaret show, and a traditional Thai dance performance
- Soak in stunning views of shimmering reflections and city lights on the river
- Spend a memorable evening while experiencing the city's nighttime beauty
Know before you go
- Keep in mind that there is a lot of traffic in Bangkok, leave with enough time to arrive on time for departure.
- It is very important to arrive at the meeting point at the agreed time.
- The cruise will not wait for late arrivals and will begin with the participants who are present.
- Those who miss the cruise due to lateness are not entitled to a refund or reschedule, as per the established start-time policy.
- General Admission Seating
- Note: Itineraries are subject to change due to water levels of the Chao Phraya River or other unforeseen circumstances. Refunds or reschedules will not be provided in such cases.
Not allowed
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
3 starting location options:
Asiatique The Riverfront Warehouse 7, ICONSIAM Pier 4, Asiatique The Riverfront
ICONSIAM
Pass by
National Museum of Royal Barges
Pass by
Wat Arun
Pass by
Grand Palace Bangkok
Pass by
Rama VIII Bridge
Pass by
Asiatique The Riverfront
Pass by