Eland Han River Cruise & Ashley Marine Buffet

Eland Han River Cruise & Ashley Marine Buffet: An Authentic Slice of Seoul’s Nightlife

Imagine floating along the Han River, with Seoul’s glittering skyline unfolding around you—this is what the Eland Han River Cruise promises. Paired with a sumptuous Ashley Marine buffet, this experience offers a lovely mix of sightseeing, good music, and tasty food. If you’re seeking a relaxing evening with stunning city views and some entertainment, this tour might just be worth considering.

What we like about this experience is the chance to see iconic landmarks like the N Seoul Tower and the 63 Building from a vantage point that’s both peaceful and visually striking. The live music aboard adds a layer of charm, making the cruise feel more like a special night out. However, a potential downside is that some travelers have reported long wait times between the buffet and boarding, along with unclear instructions. Still, for those who appreciate a scenic, leisurely cruise with a touch of local flavor, this tour fits nicely into a Seoul itinerary, especially if you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable evening.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Get close-up sights of Seoul’s skyline, bridges, and landmarks like Jamsil Olympic Stadium and the Konghang Train Bridge.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music that complements the serene river scenery.
• Quality Dining: The Ashley Marine Buffet offers a diverse selection of dishes, perfect for a relaxed meal with a view.
• Practical Details: Duration of 2.5 hours and a moderate price point around $50 make this a good value for a memorable night.
• Potential Wait Times: Be prepared for some delays, especially with check-in and boarding processes.
• Limited Winter Operation: The cruise doesn’t operate if the water freezes, so plan accordingly.

What to Expect on the Cruise: A Closer Look

The Eland Han River Cruise typically departs from Yeouido Dock, an accessible and popular starting point for river tours in Seoul. Once aboard, you’ll be treated to a 2.5-hour journey along the Han River, which acts as a natural divider and showcase of Seoul’s modern and historic architecture.

The Landmarks and Views
As the boat gently glides, you’ll see Seoul’s skyline light up at night, a cityscape that includes the towering N Seoul Tower—a symbol of Seoul—and the sleek 63 Building, which is also visible from the river. The cruise passes under Banpodaegyo Bridge and the Konghang Train Bridge, both of which add a touch of industrial charm to the scenery. Watching the city’s lights reflect off the water gives a calming yet invigorating perspective that photos simply cannot capture fully.

Many reviews highlight the scenic beauty, with one traveler noting, “Very nice buffet and cruise,” but also mentioning a long wait between dinner and boarding. This points to one of the logistical nuances: check-in can be a bit confusing, as the ticket issued by the operator isn’t the actual boat ticket, and visitors need to visit a ticket booth and show their passport. Planning extra time for this can help avoid rushing or missing the cruise altogether.

Music and Atmosphere
The onboard live band adds a delightful soundtrack to your evening, with melodies that complement the twinkling cityscape. It’s a relaxed, festive mood that enhances the sense of occasion without feeling overly formal. This makes the cruise appealing to couples, families, or anyone wanting a night out with a view.

Dining at Ashley Marine
After the cruise, or sometimes before (depending on the schedule), you can indulge in the Ashley Marine Buffet. With a variety of dishes, the buffet aims to satisfy many tastes, from traditional Korean fare to Western-style options. Savoring your meal with panoramic windows framing the city lights transforms dinner into a memorable event. Some reviews mention the buffet’s extensive selection, though a few note that the wait for the buffet can be lengthy—so patience is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Practical Tips for Your Experience

• Timing is Everything: Check availability and starting times in advance. The cruise runs for about 2.5 hours, so plan around sunset or night hours for the best views.
• Arrive Early: To avoid missing the cruise, arrive well before your scheduled departure, especially since check-in involves showing your passport and possibly filling out forms.
• Be Prepared for Waits: As some reviewers have pointed out, waiting times between dinner and boarding can be long. Bringing a book or having a quick walk nearby might help pass the time.
• Consider the Weather: The cruise doesn’t operate when water freezes in winter, so if visiting in colder months, double-check the schedule.
• Bring Your E-Ticket: After booking, your ticket will be sent via email. Remember, do not rely on the GYG QR code or confirmation voucher—your e-ticket is what you’ll need for entry.
• Bring Cash or Extra for Things like Seagull Food: While not essential, you might find it fun to buy some seagull food (KRW 2,000 per cup) to feed the birds if they’re around.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand apart from other river cruises? Primarily, it’s the combination of stunning views, live music, and the setting of Seoul’s vibrant nightscape. While some critiques mention the program’s weakness or the lengthy waits, the core appeal remains: an accessible, visually rewarding way to see the city from a different angle. The guides or staff may not be overly chatty, but the scenery and atmosphere do much of the storytelling for you.

The reviews offer a balanced picture: many enjoyed the cruise’s relaxing pace and beautiful sights, while some wished for clearer instructions or a more engaging program. For first-timers, this cruise provides a gentle introduction to Seoul’s landmarks from a perspective that’s hard to match from land.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for travelers looking for a stress-free evening with fantastic night views and decent value for money. It suits couples, families (kids 3 and up pay the same as adults), or anyone wanting a taste of Seoul’s skyline without too much fuss. It’s especially attractive if you enjoy live music and a leisurely meal with a panoramic backdrop.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, be aware that the boat’s stability might be an issue. Also, if you’re after a highly detailed guided tour, this isn’t it—it’s more about the scenery and atmosphere than narration or historical context.

For those planning winter visits, note that the cruise doesn’t operate if the water freezes. Better to plan during milder months for the best experience.

Final Thoughts

The Eland Han River Cruise & Ashley Marine Buffet offers a reasonable way to see Seoul from a different angle, combining scenic views with live entertainment and good food. It’s a moderate-length, relaxed experience that’s well-suited for travelers wanting a memorable evening out in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

While some logistical hiccups and long waits have been noted, the overall experience remains charming and visually stunning. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward, enjoyable cruise with a touch of local flavor and a chance to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

This tour provides good value for its price, especially when considering the beautiful cityscape, the live music, and the quality buffet. If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and relaxing way to enjoy Seoul at night, this cruise should definitely be on your list.

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FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, offering plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Yeouido Dock, which is a central location easily accessible in Seoul.

Is it suitable for children?
Children aged 0-2 can enter free of charge, but for kids 3 and older, the adult rate applies. It’s a family-friendly experience.

Can I expect to see specific landmarks?
Yes, landmarks like the N Seoul Tower, 63 Building, Jamsil Olympic Stadium, Banpodaegyo Bridge, and Konghang Train Bridge are included in the views.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or a copy for check-in, and consider bringing some cash if you want to buy seagull food or other small extras.

Does the cruise operate in winter?
No, the cruise does not run if the water freezes during winter months.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The buffet offers a variety of dishes, but it’s best to check with the operator beforehand if you have specific needs.

In the end, this cruise is a simple yet charming way to see Seoul’s skyline, offering a bit of entertainment, good food, and memorable views—perfect for a relaxing evening or a special night out.

You can check availability for your dates here: