Bangkok: Longtail Boat Canal Cruise

Exploring Bangkok’s vibrant canals on a longtail boat cruise is a captivating way to immerse ourselves in the city’s local charm. With prices starting at just $33.87 per person, this 2-hour journey promises a memorable adventure through wooden houses, lively markets, and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a unique cultural experience or simply want to relax and soak in the scenic surroundings, this tour offers a delightful glimpse into the heart of Thailand’s capital.

Key Points

• Explore Bangkok’s local life and culture through a 2-hour longtail boat cruise along the city’s picturesque canals, starting at Elefin Coffee.
• Visit notable landmarks like Wat Arun and Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, where a 70-meter tall Buddha statue offers a photo opportunity.
• Discover the 200-year-old Khlong Bang Luang Artist House, a community art space showcasing local artists’ paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts.
• Experience an intimate connection with everyday Thai life by observing wooden houses, swimming children, and vendors selling fresh produce and handicrafts.
• Enjoy competitive pricing, flexible booking options, and a personalized small-group experience with high-rated guides and transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Although the Bangkok Canal Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s waterways, the pricing and booking options are equally noteworthy.

Priced from $33.87 per person, this 2-hour tour provides a flexible and hassle-free experience. You can reserve now and pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Plus, the small group size ensures a personalized experience. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous outing or a relaxing cruise, the Bangkok Canal Cruise caters to your preferences with its competitive pricing and convenient booking policies.

Itinerary Highlights

The Bangkok Canal Cruise begins at Elefin Coffee, where we embark on a 20-minute river boat ride.

Set out on a 20-minute river boat ride beginning at Elefin Coffee for the Bangkok Canal Cruise.

We then pass by Wat Arun before stopping at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen for a guided tour and photo opportunity with the 70-meter tall Buddha.

Next, we visit the over 200-year-old Khlong Bang Luang Artist House, where we explore the community art space, enjoy scenic views, and have free time for shopping.

Finally, we return to Elefin Coffee, having experienced the local life along Bangkok’s canals.

Exploring Local Life

As we glide along the canals, we’re immersed in the vibrant local life unfolding around us.

Wooden houses line the waterways, with elderly residents sitting on the balconies observing our passage. Children playfully swim in the cool waters, waving to us as we pass.

The scent of local cuisine wafts through the air, beckoning us to explore further. Vendors in small boats sell fresh produce and handicrafts, offering a glimpse into the daily routines of the canal community.

This intimate connection with everyday Thai life is a highlight of our canal cruise experience.

Visit to Baan Silapin (The Artists House)

Stepping off the longtail boat, we eagerly make our way to Baan Silapin, also known as the Artists House. This over 200-year-old community art space offers a glimpse into local life.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| History | The house has been passed down through generations of artists. |

| Art | Paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts by local artists are on display. |

| Workshops | Visitors can participate in traditional Thai art workshops. |

| Views | The scenic riverside location provides picturesque views. |

Wandering through the charming house and grounds, we get a taste of Bangkok’s vibrant artistic community and the enduring traditions that shape it.

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Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen and the Big Buddha

Leaving the Artists House behind, we now make our way to Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, home to Bangkok’s largest Buddha statue.

At 70 meters tall, this massive golden Buddha is an impressive sight. Our guide leads us on a quick tour, explaining the temple’s history and significance.

Towering at 70 meters, the colossal golden Buddha captivates with its majestic presence and rich historical significance.

We snap some photos, marveling at the sheer scale of the statue. Though construction is ongoing, we can still appreciate the serene atmosphere and grandeur of this holy site.

Soon, it’s time to board our boat and continue our journey along the canals, eager to uncover more of Bangkok’s hidden gems.

Transportation and Meeting Point

To begin our canal cruise adventure, we’ll want to meet at the designated starting point – the bus stop opposite Elefin Coffee on Maha Rat Road.

This meeting location provides a convenient and accessible spot to start the tour.

When arriving, keep in mind a few important details:

1. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, babies under 1, or people over 70 and 95 years old.

2. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.

3. While the tour operates rain or shine, occasional delays at water gates may occur.

Suitability and Restrictions

While the tour operates rain or shine, it’s important to note that the canal cruise isn’t suitable for everyone.

Those with back problems, mobility impairments, babies under 1 year, and people over 70 and 95 years should avoid this activity.

Alcohol and drugs are also not allowed on the tour.

Occasional delays at water gates may occur, so patience is advised.

The construction of the Big Buddha at Wat Pak Nam Phasicharoen is expected to be completed by March 2025.

Keeping these restrictions in mind will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The reviews for this canal cruise are quite positive, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 1,630 reviews.

The guide rating stands at 4.5/5, and the transportation rating is 4.5/5 as well.

Regarding value for money, customers have rated it 4.2/5.

Some highlights include:

1. "Such a good trip… Our guide Nikki was brilliant!" – Rachel (UK)

2. "Excellent trip seeing hidden gems… Our guide Sunday was knowledgeable and funny." – Neil (UK)

3. "Our guide Anna was perfect, very enlightening." – Kaya (Turkey)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols on the Tour?

We follow strict COVID-19 safety protocols to ensure your well-being. Our boats operate at reduced capacity, and we provide hand sanitizer. Masks are required throughout the tour. Let us know if you have any other concerns about safety.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

We’re sorry, but you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the boat. The tour operator prohibits outside food and beverages to maintain cleanliness and safety on the vessel. We recommend enjoying the refreshments provided during the cruise.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or those over 70 years old. We’d recommend looking into more accessible boat tours or activities in Bangkok that better accommodate those with disabilities.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

We didn’t see any discounts or special offers mentioned for this tour. However, the booking is flexible, and you can reserve now and pay later. Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Can I Customize or Extend the Tour to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize or extend the tour to suit your preferences. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, and they’re happy to accommodate special requests within reason. Just let them know what you’d like to do!

The Sum Up

The Longtail Boat Canal Cruise offers a unique glimpse into Bangkok’s local life and cultural heritage. With its picturesque sights, guided visits, and small group setting, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil respite from the city’s bustling streets or a chance to explore its rich history, this cruise is an ideal way to experience the charm of Bangkok.

You can check availability for your dates here: