Bangkok water transport still plays an important role in the system of Bangkok public transport. As a tourist, you can charter a boat and explore Bangkok’s canals or join one of Bangkok's river cruises on the mighty Chao Phraya River. However, the most fun way of exploring the waterways of the Thai capital is joining locals on public water transport. Discover a detailed guide to public Bangkok water transport with Chao Phraya Express Boat, Thai Smile Boat, canal boat, and cross-river ferry services.
Chao Phraya Express Boat in Bangkok
Chao Phraya Express Boat service operates along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and, together with cross-river ferries, connects both banks of the river in the Thai capital. Chao Phraya Express Boat service is a very useful means of Bangkok public transport, not only for commuting in the central part of the city but also for sightseeing, as a big part of Bangkok's top attractions can be found by the river.
The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat service operates from Phra Arthit Pier to Sathorn Pier. Starting from 11:30, the route is extended all the way to Asiatique The Riverfront. The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat route connects the touristy district of Khao San Road (N13/Phra Arthit Pier) with Thonburi Railway Station, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the Flower Market, Chinatown, ICONSIAM, the BTS SkyTrain Saphan Taksin station, and Asiatique the Riverfront.
Thai Smile Boat in Bangkok
Thai Smile Boat, previously known as MINE Smart Ferry, is an electric Bangkok riverboat service operating on the Chao Phraya River. It's a more comfortable and environmentally friendly alternative to the more common Chao Phraya Express Boat. Thai Smile Boat service operates at around 20 piers along the Chao Phraya River, so it is not as widely available as Chao Phraya Express Boat. However, most important tourist attractions can be visited by using the electric Bangkok riverboat.
If you will be using the electric boat and bus service several times a day, get Thai Go Day Pass that covers all Thai Smile Bus routes as well as Thai Smile Boat routes.
Khlong Saen Saeb Boat in Bangkok
Khlong Saen Saeb Boat is one of Bangkok's public transport services that is operating along the canal named “Khlong Saen Saeb.” The route is served by 100 boats with 40-50 seats each, running from the west to the east through Bangkok and back. The route is over 18 kilometers long and connects many shopping spots and attractions, such as Central World, Pratunam, Nana, and MBK.
With the Saen Saep Canal Electric Boat, the journey on the same canal can be extended further to Minburi.
Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Boat
Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Boat service is the first electric passenger boat service in Bangkok, which is provided on the Phadung Krung Kasem Canal and connects the Hua Lamphong area with the Phra Nakhon district.
Bangkok Cross-River Ferry Services
Bangkok cross-river ferries are available at many piers along the river in central Bangkok for crossing to the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya River. These river-crossing ferries can be very useful if you’re planning to visit Bangkok attractions on the opposite side of the Chao Phraya River, such as Wat Arun.
Bangkok Water Transport Tips
For a special experience on the Chao Phraya River, choose one of the scenic Bangkok River Dinner Cruises.
Join the Ayutthaya Day Tour with River Cruise and visit the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the capital of Siam. Enjoy a river cruise and take in the beautiful scenery and sites along the Chao Phraya River on the way back from Ayutthaya to Bangkok.