Bangkok Canal Tour: 2-Hour Longtail Boat Ride
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Step aboard for an approximately 2-hour long-tail boat tour through the canals of Thonburi; Bangkok’s lesser-known, but deeply authentic side. Cruise past stilt houses, waving locals, and hidden temples, and make a stop at the charming riverside community of Khlong Bang Luang, home to the Artist’s House. Along the way, we pass the largest Buddha in Bangkok at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen.
This tour shows a different side of Bangkok, far from the glossy tourist spots. You’ll see humble wooden homes perched above the water, revealing the city’s contrasts and the realities of local life.
Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience.
For a glimpse into Bangkok’s quieter, more traditional side, this canal tour offers an eye-opening journey through the city’s history and local life.
Maximum 12 people per boat.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Our Bangkok canal tour operates rain or shine. Therefore, cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
Bangkok’s traffic is notorious, so we kindly ask all participants to arrive at the meeting point on time. As our tours operate on a group basis, we cannot delay departure. If you’re unable to make it on time, please inform us before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day. Please note that a rescheduling fee will apply.
The most convenient way to reach the meeting point, and avoid Bangkok’s often congested road traffic, is by taking the MRT (metro) to Sanam Chai Station. From there, take the 'Museum Siam' exit. The meeting point is just a short 5-minute walk from the station.
The guide can only wait for a MAXIMUM of 10 minutes after the set meeting time. After the 10 minutes grace period, the guide will start with the tour.
Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience.
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as boarding and disembarking the boat may be difficult due to the lack of stairs at the piers.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
English speaking guide
One bottle of drinking water per person
Long-tail boat & boat driver
Gratuities for the boat driver and guide (optional)
What To Expect
Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
As we cross the Chao Phraya River on our way to Thonburi, you’ll catch a beautiful glimpse of Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This iconic riverside temple is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, with its central Khmer-style prang (tower) rising elegantly above the water, adorned with intricate porcelain mosaics that shimmer in the sunlight. ***** Please note that we will NOT get off at Wat Arun. You will only see it from the river while on our way to Thonburi. *****
Baan Silapin
Tucked away along the peaceful banks of Khlong Bang Luang (Bang Luang Canal) on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River lies one of Bangkok’s hidden gems: a charming riverside community where time seems to slow down. This historic neighborhood is made up of traditional wooden houses, small local shops, and family-run galleries connected by a wooden walkway that follows the edge of the canal. It offers a rare glimpse into what everyday life in Bangkok used to be like, long before the city’s skyline was dominated by concrete and glass. At the heart of the community is Baan Silapin, or The Artist’s House, a beautifully restored wooden home over 200 years old. Dedicated to preserving and celebrating Thai culture, this house functions as a small art center where visitors can enjoy rotating art exhibitions and handmade crafts. Wandering through the area, you’ll find small shops, cozy riverside cafés, and friendly locals who’ve lived here for generations. Duration of stop 30-40 minutes.
Options
Bangkok Canal Tour: 2-Hour Longtail Boat Ride
Reviews
5,532 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Good way to see the Big buddha
Angela B,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00This was a fun tour however we only saw Wat Arun from the other side of the river, I expected that we would cross the river and sail past. We also only had 20 mins at the artists house which really only gave us time to walk there and back from the drop off pick up point and didn’t really get to spend any time looking around. Pam, our guide, was fun and informative.
Joe can handle anything!
P5333ADnathanp,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked the WanderSiam Bangkok Canal Longboat tour and it was a good experience. We were met by our guide Joe who immediately needed to turn to plan B due to the flooding of the Chao Phraya river! He managed to deal with all the challenges thrown at him admirably and his charisma and knowledge were key to our enjoyment of this tour. He is a local and has grown up in the areas in which we travelled. He knew all about the city, the history, the temples, the canals and the wildlife. The river and canal longboat is a special way to explore Bangkok and Thonburi.
Great canal ride with John
AmitK141075,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great service and experience. John was very friendly and cooperative. Kudos to him. Their company is highly recommended.
Chill canal vibes.
595jcharlesb,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was looking for something laid back to do late in the day. This was a perfect sunset activity. Not too much of a commitment. I’d recommend. Thanks, Ken. Good job!
The tour guide is nice but the activity was not for us
FerdinandJr B,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
2.00Not for us. If you accompany with elderly it’s better to book the boat with handle to hold when you come down and come up.
Nice canal tour
kimlE5901ST,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Tour guide Kin was very professional and we enjoyed touring with him. The very large Buddha statue is impressive, really!
Nice local boat trip
9lukash,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a wonderful experience thanks to our guide Ken. Boat trip was well organized. Meeting point was shared via message.
Excellent trip
Emily T,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ken was an excellent tour guide. He was very informative, friendly and interesting and made the trip a great experience.
Great Bangkok Canal Tour
FoxtrotOscar2912,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Booked and received our meeting instructions. All easy to follow. Met our guide (bella) who took as to the pier for our long boat. Ourselves plus 10 others in the tour party. Fascinating information imparted as our boat captain took us sown through the canals off the main Chao Phraya River. A stop midway for a visit to a canalised market with shops and restaurants. Two hours exactly from start to finish. Thoroughly recommended.
Best Tour with Ken
OnAir39529680043,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ken is The Best! He has very good language skills, cares about safety on the tour and is very friendly and helpful. Thank You Ken, it was a very nice Tour! We recommend the Trip! Becky & Joe
From THB 1,150.00
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