I’ve at all times beloved seeing Bangkok from the river, and this time, I made a decision to hitch the Vijit Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise — one thing I’d been eager to strive for some time. The cruise occurred to coincide with the passing of Queen Sirikit, so the standard fireworks present was respectfully paused. Nonetheless, the evening turned out to be particular in its personal method — calmer, extra reflective, however nonetheless vigorous.
We boarded from the pier at Terminal 21 Rama 3, a handy start line with loads of eating places and a vigorous environment earlier than departure. Because the cruise started, I used to be genuinely thrilled after we approached the Krung Thon Bridge, one of many lowest bridges alongside the route. Everybody obtained excited, telephones out, heads lowered a bit of as we handed below — it was such a enjoyable, surprising second that had the entire deck cheering and laughing.
Dinner was served buffet-style, and whereas the queue was a bit of lengthy, it moved steadily, and there was greater than sufficient meals for everybody on board. The unfold was spectacular — from contemporary seafood and native Thai dishes to pasta with meatballs, plus a variety of varied truffles, desserts, and fruits to finish the meal on a candy word. I could or could not have gone again for seconds.
There was additionally a standard Thai dance efficiency in the course of the night, including a contact of native tradition and magnificence to the cruise. The dancers, wearing lovely costumes, moved gracefully to conventional music, and it was a type of moments that made you pause to actually admire Thailand’s appeal.
At one level, as we handed by the Grand Palace, everybody on board stood up for a minute of silence to pay respect to the late Queen Sirikit. It was a quiet and emotional second, one which made the night really feel much more significant.
Midway via, the sky determined to hitch the enjoyable — it began raining. However actually, that didn’t cease us. We merely moved downstairs into the indoor cabin, and it felt like a wholly completely different expertise. The glass home windows fogged up barely, raindrops traced traces down the facet, and gentle dwell music performed within the background as we cruised previous landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace glowing within the distance. It was heat, cozy, and a bit of romantic — the form of scene you’ll be able to’t plan, however find yourself remembering most.
Even with out the fireworks, the night turned out to be a type of quietly lovely nights. Typically, the only moments — the sound of rain, good meals, and a river view — are what make a visit unforgettable.
In the event you’re ever in Bangkok, I’d say the Vijit Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise continues to be value doing. Go together with no expectations, and simply benefit from the experience.
