How to Use Bangkok’s Water Taxis and Ferries for an Unforgettable City Tour?

Once you get a taste of Bangkok, it’s quite hard to like any other city as much. At first, it may seem like there’s too much stimulation, and you may find it overwhelming, but give it some time, and you’ll come to see the fascinating side of Bangkok. This is a city where the past meets the present. This is also true when it comes to the city’s transport system. Tuk-tuks and taxis are modern facets, while river taxis and ferries hark back to history. 

Express Boat River Taxis 

The Chao Phraya River adds a touch of the natural world to Bangkok. One of the best ways to get around the city is by taking the Express Boat River Taxis on the Chao Phraya River. These boats run up and down the river, making stops at piers and popular attractions such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. They also make stops at markets. The Express Boats are a great way to see the city from the water while also travelling. Plus, they don’t cost you an arm and a leg. 

Now, not all the boats are the same; you’ll notice different coloured flags on each boat: orange, yellow, and green. These flags indicate the route. For example, boats with the orange flag stop at most piers and are more affordable.

Long-Tail Boats 

If you want to experience some adventure while getting around the city, hire a long-tail boat. These boats are a quintessential Southeast Asian feature. They’re narrow and have a loud engine at the back. In Bangkok, these boats run not only on the Chao Phraya River but also in small canals called klongs. You’ll pay between 500 to 1,500 baht, which may seem a bit expensive, but you’ll get your money’s worth. Also, long-tail boats take you to see floating markets and hidden temples that are not part of the typical tourist repertoire.

Now, while water-based transport is all fun and exciting, you may have no choice but to use land transport to get to some places in the city. This is why you should stay at a hotel close to transport hubs. You have several options, including SilQ Hotel and Residence, a popular choice for those interested in studio apartments in Sukhumvit.

River Crossing Ferry 

Both locals and tourists use river-crossing ferries to get to the other side of the river. Remember Express Boats? They go up and down the river, while river-crossing ferries travel across, essentially creating a link between the two riverbanks. Say you want to see Wat Arun on the west bank and the Grand Palace on the east bank – a river-crossing ferry is pretty much the only way to do it. These ferries run all day long, and the fare is only a few baht per ride. River-crossing ferries don’t offer longer journeys, but they still give you enough time to enjoy the city’s skyline from the water. Even if you don’t want to get to the other side, a river-crossing boat ride is a must. 

Canal Boats 

Did you know that Bangkok is called the Venice of the East? There’s a reason for that. There’s a network of canals weaving throughout the city. These canals were used as the primary transportation routes before the roads were built. Some of these canals have now been replaced by roads, but many remain. Taking a boat ride through these canals is an excellent way to see the city and imagine what it must have been like in Bangkok in the olden days. These boats are super fast and a great way to get around when the traffic gets out of control during rush hour, and are an excellent way to catch a few sights on your way down! The rides can be a bit bumpy, but that’s all part of the fun - and there are some lovely houses to see.