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|Updated: 2 August 2023
I discovered the Express Boat service years ago and have been using it ever since. Whether you are going to and from work or sightseeing on the weekend, it’s a great way to travel through Bangkok.
One the major advantage is that you can connect with both the BTS and the MRT very easily. The Sathorn pier is very close to the Saphan Thaksin BTS station and Yodpiman or Rajini pier is close to the Sanam Chai MRT station. At the time of writing, the Rajini pier was closed for redevelopment, but the Yodpiman pier is a very short and easy walk to the Sanam Chai station. I know people who use the Express Boat everyday to get to and from work but obviously your work location would make using the Express Boat a plus or a minus.
Another big advantage is the cost at only 15 Baht per trip, whatever the length of your trip. This makes the service far cheaper than other services that are offered on the river.
As a tourist or a resident exploring the city on the weekend this makes the Express Boat a great option. You move through the city quickly having great views along the way and the piers are located close to major attractions on both sides of the river. Even if you get on and off often to explore WatArun, the Grand Palace, the Sky Park, the flower market or one of the many attractions along the way, it’s still very cheap and easy. The service now has announcements about the upcoming pier and surrounding attractions.
You can purchase a ticket at a few of the piers, but can always purchase a ticket once on board. Easy.
In these times of the “new normal” it is far less crowded and mainly used by local workers and students going about their day.
No grid locked traffic jams, 15 Baht cost, great views and insights to the daily lives of people who live along the river all with a cool breeze off the water.
There are several flag colour options and all the information can be found online, but I always use the “orange flag: option as it stops at all the piers along the route, which is a plus for me.
If you have never used the Express Boat service now is the time. It may not be suitable for your work commute, but is a brilliant way to spend a comfortable and relaxing Sunday afternoon.
Definitely give it a go.
