Navigating Bangkok by Boat: A Guide to River and Canals

Forget sitting in Bangkok’s notorious traffic – Bangkok by boat offers a faster, cooler, and more interesting way to explore. A 20-baht boat ride can save you an hour of travel time while treating you to river breezes and views of glittering temples. Plus, you’ll discover parts of Bangkok most visitors never see: morning alms-giving by boat, riverside street food stalls, and quiet canal-side neighbourhoods where traditional wooden houses still stand.

Whether you’re heading to the Grand Palace, searching for hidden markets, or just want to experience the city like a local, here’s everything you need to know about Bangkok’s boat services.

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How to get around Bangkok – Chao Phraya River Transport Guide

Before you step onto your first boat, let’s break down Bangkok’s river transport system. The Chao Phraya River is your main highway, running north to south through the city centre. After numerous trips on Bangkok’s boats – from missing stops to getting splashed – I’ve learned that while most tourists stick to the dedicated tourist boats, you’ll save money and see more of local life using the regular services.

The trick is knowing which boat to catch. That orange flag boat might look crowded, but it’s often your fastest route to the Grand Palace. Or maybe you want a shuttle to zip straight to ICONSIAM.

Here’s a complete guide to each service, starting with the cheapest options:

Express Boats (16-20 baht)

These are Bangkok’s water buses – the most frequent and affordable option. Look for the coloured flags which signify the route the boat travels.

• Orange Flag: Local service stopping at most piers (16 baht) – perfect for temple hopping and the most useful for visitors.
• Green/Yellow Flag (sometimes called Gold Flag): Weekday commuter service between Nonthaburi and Sathorn (20 baht)
• Green Flag: Weekday express service with fewer stops (20 baht)
• Red Flag: Limited northern service for reaching Nonthaburi area (16 baht)

Thai Smile Boat (30 baht)

A modern alternative with air-conditioning and easier boarding. Thai Smile Boats offer three routes that include many of the key stops.

Features of the Smile services include:

• Stable, quieter electric boats
• Card payment accepted
• Daily price caps with HOP card
• Clear English announcements
• Perfect for families and less mobile visitors

Blue Flag Tourist Boat (60 baht)

The Blue Flag Tourist Boat is designed specifically for sightseeing, with comfortable seating and English commentary. At 45 baht per trip (or 200 baht for a day pass), it’s more expensive than regular boats but includes:

• All-day hop-on-hop-off access
• English commentary
• Free wifi
• Stops only at or near major attractions
• More space for luggage and cameras

Want to plan the perfect sightseeing route? Check out our complete guide to making the most of the Bangkok Tourist Boat.

ICONSIAM Shuttle

This convenient shuttle service connects Bangkok’s newest riverside mall complex with two major piers, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing.

• Operates 9am-11pm daily
• Connects to Sathorn Pier (Pier 1) and Si Phraya Pier (Pier 4)
• Fare applies (Last time I took it, it was 8 Baht, but check current rates at pier)

Hotel Shuttles

If your hotel isn’t near a public pier, make sure it offers a free shuttle service – it’ll save you lots of time and taxi fares.

Several riverside hotels operate their own boat services to ICONSIAM and Sathorn Pier:

• The Siam Hotel
• Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel
• The Peninsula Bangkok
• Mandarin Oriental Hotel
• Baan Chao Praya
• Banyan Tree Residences
• Chatrium Riverside

Pro tip: Check boat schedules directly with your hotel as times vary by property

How to Ride the Express Boats

First time on an express boat? They can feel intimidating, but these tips will help you ride like a local:

Sathorn Pier is well-organised with clear signs and route maps for all the services that operate on the river. You will find English speaking staff ready to help. It’s a great starting point for your first ride.

Choosing Your Ticket

Check the route maps near the ticket windows. Tell the staff your destination and they will do the rest. While they often recommend the Tourist Boat to visitors (it’s easier for first-timers), if you don’t want this ticket you can simply tell them which service you want to use.

Don’t feel pressured – they’re not trying to oversell, just making sure you’re comfortable. Regular boats are cheaper but more crowded

Once you have paid the wharf attendants will direct you to the correct waiting area based on your ticket.

Boarding the boat

At Sathorn Pier – The main pier is well-organised with clear staff directions and safety lines – simply follow their instructions and be ready for some movement as boats dock.

At other Piers – Look for your boat’s coloured flag and have your fare ready, then follow the locals’ lead – they’ll start moving before the boat fully stops, as vessels only pause briefly at each pier.

Some larger stops have indicator boards but these are not that common.

Current Service Information (Jan 2025) – There are continual improvements being made to the piers along the river so you may find stops temporarily closed.

• Wat Arun is now accessed via cross-river ferry from Tha Tien Pier (5am-7pm daily). The Orange flag service no longer stops here.
• Some piers are temporarily closed for renovation, including Oriental Pier (N1) and Wat Khema Pier (N26)

Pro tip: Google Maps often misses these boat routes, but they can be the fastest way to get around. I’ve sometimes saved an hour by taking a boat instead of a taxi.

Essential Pier Guide

Now that you understand the boat services, let’s explore where they can take you. These key piers not only connect with Bangkok’s other transport systems but also serve as gateways to some of the city’s most fascinating areas.

Sathorn Pier (Central)

Consider Sathorn Pier your gateway to Bangkok’s waterways. Connected to BTS Saphan Taksin Station by a covered walkway, this central hub is where most visitors start their river journey.

The pier’s organization makes it ideal for first-time boat users, with clear signage and staff ready to help you find the right service.

If you arrive in need of a coffee, its worth the short 7 minute walk to Sarnies. You’ll find it in a gorgeous old building. All their drinks are great but the flat white is my go to. For a beer with a view, Jack’s Bar, in a few minutes away. Order a cold beer and a serve of chicken wings. Thank us later!

Tha Tien Pier

Tha Tien serves as your jumping-off point for Bangkok’s most famous temples. From here, catch the cross-river ferry to Wat Arun (running 5am-7pm), or take a short 400-metre walk to reach Wat Pho, home of the Reclining Buddha.

The surrounding area has plenty of local food vendors, and the Tha Tian Market is an interesting stroll between between temple visits. As a main connection point for historic Rattanakosin Island, this pier puts you at the heart of old Bangkok.

Tha Chang Pier

Most visitors head to Tha Chang for its proximity to the Grand Palace, just a 10-minute walk away. But the real charm lies in the surrounding streets, where historic shophouses house local restaurants serving traditional Thai dishes. We like Thong Heng Lee which is a few minutes walk away.

Don’t miss the fascinating amulet market, where collectors and believers browse thousands of tiny Buddhist amulets and religious objects.

Memorial Bridge Pier

Memorial Bridge Pier offers access to some of Bangkok’s most atmospheric spots. The 24-hour Pak Khlong Talat flower market comes alive between 2am and dawn, when wholesalers arrive with fresh blooms. If you are not an early bird, don’t worry, its pretty most times of day.

Take in sweeping river views from the elevated Chao Phraya Sky Park, then explore the surrounding streets that transform into a bustling street food paradise after 4pm. From here, it’s an easy walk to the narrow lanes of Chinatown, especially atmospheric in the evening.

Shopping & Entertainment Stops

The riverside has transformed into one of Bangkok’s premier shopping and entertainment districts, with these piers giving you easy access to the best spots:

ICONSIAM Pier

Bangkok’s newest luxury mall complex dominates this pier, operating from 10am to 10pm daily. The real highlights come in the evening with spectacular fountain shows at 6:30pm, 8pm, and 9pm.

Inside, explore the ground floor’s indoor floating market food court for local flavors, then head up to the 6th floor observation deck for sweeping river views.

River City Pier

This creative hub houses Bangkok’s finest art galleries and antique shops, open from 10am to 8pm. Regular exhibitions showcase both traditional and contemporary Thai art.

The complex’s riverside restaurants offer some of the best sunset dining in Bangkok, and the pier provides easy access to the nearby Sheraton and Royal Orchid hotels.

Asiatique Pier

This former trading port transforms into a vibrant night market from 4pm until midnight. Take a ride on the riverside Ferris wheel (300 Baht) for spectacular river views, then explore the mix of street food stalls and restaurants.

Note that after 3:30pm, this pier is only accessible via the Blue Flag Tourist Boat.

Temple and Culture Stops

Many of Bangkok’s most famous temples are easiest to reach by boat. Here’s where to find them:

Wat Arun Pier (via Tha Tien)

The iconic Temple of Dawn welcomes visitors from 8am to 6pm daily (entrance 100 baht), accessed via a quick cross-river ferry from Tha Tien (5 baht, running 5am-7pm).

Beyond the temple’s stunning spires, explore the local market tucked behind the complex, or relax at one of several traditional massage shops.
One of our favourite chicken rice shops Mui Lee Chicken and Rice, is just 4 minutes walk away and great for an early lunch (or late breakfast) it usually closes about 1pm.

📸 Photo Tip: The best shots of Wat Arun come just before sunset (around 5:30-6:30pm), when the temple’s spires catch the golden light. Position yourself at Sala Rattanakosin’s rooftop bar or Tha Tien Pier for the perfect angle. Morning light (7-9am) offers beautiful backlit shots from the Wat Arun side.

Rajinee Pier

Just a two-minute walk from Sanam Chai MRT station, Rajinee Pier connects you to several cultural highlights. Visit Museum Siam (10am-6pm, closed Mondays, 200 baht) to understand Thai history, or take the cross-river ferry (3 baht) to the historic Santa Cruz Church.

The pier area features numerous local food stalls and sits within walking distance of the flower market. The surrounding historic neighbourhood showcases some of Bangkok’s finest traditional architecture.

Local Life Spots

Looking for the real Bangkok? These lesser-known piers connect you to authentic local neighbourhoods:

Si Phraya Pier

Si Phraya Pier will drop you in Charoen Krung 30 home of Bangkok’s arts area. With the Warehouse 30 complex and walls of street art this a fun place to stroll. Wander inside the art deco style old post office building where you will find the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC)

The neighbourhood’s traditional shophouse cafes and the side alleys feature some of Bangkok’s most interesting local street art. Try to drop by Central: The Original Store, this is the location of the very first Central Department Store and today houses an excellent bookshop.

Marine Department Pier

Marine Department Pier drops you right in the middle of Taled Noi. The area retains its old-world charm with preserved Chinese shophouses, now home to hidden coffee shops in beautifully aged buildings. Visit in the morning before the crowds arrive for the best photography opportunities.

For something completely different to Hong Sieng Kong, drop into the Sou Heng Tai House a beautifully preserved 19th-century Hokkien mansion. It features traditional Chinese architecture in various stages of decay and a peaceful courtyard pool. The 50 baht entrance fee can be redeemed for a drink – try their excellent coffee upstairs while enjoying views of the historic building. A quiet escape perfect for experiencing old Bangkok’s charm.

Ratchawong Pier

Serving as a gateway to Chinatown just 400 meters away, Ratchawong Pier connects you to the historic Song Wat Road area.

The surrounding streets house traditional Chinese shrines and medicine shops that have operated for generations. Many of these old shophouses are finding new life as third-generation family members transform their century-old trading spaces into trendy bars, cafes, restaurants, and galleries, while maintaining their historic charm. Visit either early morning to see traditional businesses in action, or after 4pm when the neighborhood comes alive with its vibrant mix of old and new.

Check out our self guided tour of Song Wat Road and spend a few hours here. It’s brilliant!

Planning Your River Journey

Knowing the routes is only half the story – timing is crucial. Bangkok’s waterways transform throughout the day, from bustling commuter runs to leisurely tourist trips. Here’s how to time your journey for the best experience.

Best Times for Different Activities

Temple Visits and Photography:

• Early morning (7am-9am): Best light, fewer tourists
• Late afternoon (3pm-5pm): Golden light on Wat Arun
• Avoid midday heat (11am-2pm)

Shopping and Entertainment:

• ICONSIAM: 10am-9pm (fountain shows at 6:30pm, 8pm, 9pm)
• Asiatique: After 4pm
• River City: 10am-8pm (galleries best midday)

Local Markets:

• Morning markets: 6am-9am
• Flower market: 24 hours (best midnight-dawn)
• Weekend markets: 9am-4pm

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Service Hours

Weekdays:

• Orange Flag: 6am-6:10pm (every 5-20 minutes depending on time of day)
• Tourist Boat: 8:30am-6:30pm (every 30 minutes)
• Cross-river ferries: 5am-7pm (continuous service)
• Thai Smile Boat: 7am-7pm (every 15 minutes)

Weekends:

• Orange Flag: Saturdays from 7:30am, Sundays from 9am
• Tourist Boat: Regular schedule
• No commuter services (Gold/Red)

📸 Photo Tip: Early morning express boat rides (6am-8am) offer magical photo opportunities as the sun rises over the river. Sit on the boat’s left side heading north for the best temple views. The soft morning light is perfect for capturing the golden spires of riverside temples, and you’ll often catch monks collecting alms by boat.

Looking for floating markets? The express boats don’t go to the famous floating markets like Damnoen Saduak. For these, you’ll need to book a tour or arrange private transport.

From Public Transport to Private Adventure

While express boats are perfect for efficient travel along the main river, Bangkok’s true charm lies in its canals. Step away from the scheduled routes, and you’ll discover a network of waterways where life moves at a different pace entirely.

These iconic boats, powered by converted car engines mounted on long poles, are to Bangkok’s canals what gondolas are to Venice – but with a lot more horsepower. They’re your key to accessing the quieter, more traditional side of the city that most express boat passengers glimpse but never explore.

Exploring the Thonburi Canals by Long-tail Boat

While express boats give you a taste of river life, the real magic happens when you turn off the mighty Chao Phraya into Bangkok’s maze of canals. Here, in neighbourhoods like Thonburi, time seems to slow down.

But many visitors feel overwhelmed by aggressive touts and unclear pricing at the main piers. Don’t let this put you off – here’s how to explore the canals without the stress.

You have two options, prebooked tours or do it yourself adventures.

Pre Booked Tours

The easiest option is booking in advance through your hotel or online. You’ll pay a bit more (typically 1000-1500฿ per hour), but everything is arranged for you, including hotel pickup and an English-speaking guide.

Most tours run 2-3 hours and follow set routes covering the main sights.

If you are keen to explore some of the smaller canals, check out this private long-tail boat tour.

DIY Adventures

If you’re comfortable negotiating, arranging your own tour at the pier can save money and offer more flexibility.

Head to either Sathorn or Tha Chang piers and look for the official boat ticket counters – ignore any touts who approach you on the street.

Expect to pay:

• 1000-1200฿ per hour for 1-4 people
• 1300-1500฿ per hour for 5-8 people
• Add 500฿ for each additional hour

Always agree on the total price and duration before boarding, and confirm if any entrance fees are included. Ask them to include some of the canal stops below.

Popular Canal Tour Stops

Most tours include these highlights, but if you’re arranging your own boat, be sure to discuss which spots you want to visit:

Thonburi Canals

The old capital’s canals offer glimpses of traditional life:

• Artist’s House (Baan Silapin): A 200-year-old teak house hosting traditional puppet shows at 2pm (except Wednesdays)
• Wat Pak Nam: Massive temple with a striking neon-lit pagoda
• Local Food Stops: Try canal-side noodle shops where boats pull up to serve customer

Local Markets

For a more authentic experience than the famous Damnoen Saduak:

• Khlong Lat Mayom: Weekend floating market (Sat-Sun, 8am-4pm) known for excellent local food and produce
• Bang Nam Pheung: Hidden in Bangkok’s “Green Lung” area, this weekend market (Sat-Sun, 8am-2pm) offers a truly local experience
• Taling Chan: Smaller weekend floating market (Sat-Sun, 8am-4pm) with boat noodles and seafood grilling

Note: Market opening times can vary by season and during holidays. Check current times when booking your tour.

What you’ll See Along the Way

The journey between stops is often as interesting as the destinations themselves. Watch for:

• Wooden houses on stilts
• Small family-run orchid farms
• Local spirit houses
• Children fishing
• Riverside temples
• Monitor lizards sunbathing

📸 Photo Tip: On canal tours, keep your camera ready during the journey between stops. Some of the best shots come unexpectedly: an elderly woman tending her riverside garden, children feeding fish, or monks padding barefoot along wooden jetties. For the clearest canal reflections, book your tour in the early morning when the water is calmest.

A canal tour offers a unique perspective on Bangkok that you won’t get from temples and markets alone. Whether you choose a guided tour or negotiate your own adventure, you’ll discover a slower, more traditional side of the city that hasn’t changed much in generations.

Making the Most of Bangkok’s Waterways

After mastering Bangkok’s boat services, you’ll wonder why anyone bothers with taxis. Here are the key points to remember:

Choose Your Route Wisely:

• Stick to Orange Flag boats for main attractions
• Use Thai Smile Boat for comfort
• Save canal boats for when you’re confident
• Consider private tours for hidden spots

Money-Saving Tips:

• Regular express boats over tourist boats when possible
• HOP Card if using Thai Smile Boat frequently
• Combine boat types for efficient routes
• Share long-tail boat costs with other travellers

Whether you’re commuting on an express boat or exploring hidden canals by long-tail, Bangkok’s waterways offer something no other form of transport can: a journey through both space and time.

They’re not just transit routes but living museums, where you can experience both the city’s ancient rhythms and its modern pulse. The key is knowing when to stick to the convenient express boats and when to venture off into the quieter canals – and now you know how to do both.

➡️ Planning your first visit? Here’s our beginners guide to Bangkok Public Transport
➡️ Just landed? Here’s our detailed airport transport guide
➡️ Need to transfer between airports? Check our tips
➡️ Ready to tackle the trains? Check our complete BTS & MRT Guide
➡️ Interested in bus travel? See our Bangkok By Bus tips

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