Ayutthaya by Grand Pearl River Cruise From Bangkok With Lunch on Board(Sha Plus)

Explore the ancient kingdom of Ayutthaya with a captivating river cruise from Bangkok. This guided tour takes visitors through UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. Indulge in a delightful Thai and international buffet lunch as you cruise along the Chao Phraya River, surrounded by the serene beauty of historic temples and monasteries. With round-trip transportation and SHA Plus certification for safety, this experience promises a memorable journey through one of Thailand’s most significant historical destinations. What secrets and stories will unfold on this enchanting river cruise?

Key Points

• A guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya with a relaxing river cruise and Thai/international lunch buffet.
• Includes round-trip transportation from select central Bangkok hotels and all admission fees to temples and palaces.
• Tour adheres to COVID-19 protocols with SHA Plus certification and a 70% staff vaccination rate.
• Pickup locations available within a 3 km radius of Bangkok city center, with an additional surcharge for locations outside the radius.
• The tour operates from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm, with a dress code of covered shoulders and knees required at temples.

Tour Overview

This Ayutthaya River Cruise from Bangkok offers a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from select central Bangkok hotels. Visitors will explore significant monasteries and temples with an English-speaking guide. An air-conditioned vehicle is provided, eliminating the need to rent a car.

The tour also includes an afternoon cruise on the Chao Phraya River with a Thai and international lunch buffet served on board.

Inclusions

The Ayutthaya River Cruise from Bangkok includes an air-conditioned coach with an English-speaking guide.

All admission fees to temples and palaces are covered, and a Thai and international lunch buffet is provided on board the cruise. A coffee break with refreshments is also included.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, though gratuities and personal items are not.

The tour adheres to COVID-19 protocols, with 70% of the staff vaccinated, and it has received the SHA Plus certification, indicating compliance with health and safety standards.

Meeting Points and Pickup

Pickup locations for the Ayutthaya River Cruise from Bangkok are available within a 3 km radius of the city center. Key pickup points include Sukhumvit, Pratunam, Silom, and Khao San Road. An additional surcharge applies for pickups outside the 3 km radius. Alternatively, guests can opt to join the tour at designated meeting points.

Pickup Location	Surcharge
Within 3 km	No
Outside 3 km	Yes
Designated Meeting Points	N/A

The tour starts at 6:30 am and concludes around 4:30 pm.

Itinerary

The tour begins with an early departure from central Bangkok hotels, allowing visitors to beat the crowds and make the most of their day at the historic Ayutthaya UNESCO site.

Upon arrival, the group embarks on a guided walking tour of the ancient temples and monasteries, marveling at the stunning architecture and learning about the site’s rich history.

After the temple visits, guests enjoy a relaxing lunch buffet aboard a river cruise along the Chao Phraya River.

The tour then concludes with a coffee break and drop-off back at the original pickup locations in central Bangkok, providing a seamless and immersive experience of Ayutthaya’s cultural heritage.

Dress Code and Child Policy

When visiting the Ayutthaya temples, a specific dress code is required. Shoulders and knees must be covered to respect the sacred sites.

Children over 120 cm in height are charged the adult rate, while infants can sit on their parents’ laps. Strollers are accessible for families.

The tour may be impacted by weather or traffic, potentially resulting in delays of 15-30 minutes.

Despite these guidelines, the historical significance of Ayutthaya and the enjoyable river cruise experience make this tour an engaging way to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tour Accessibility

Pickup services for the Ayutthaya River Cruise are available within a 3 km radius of Bangkok’s city center, including key locations like Sukhumvit, Pratunam, Silom, and Khao San Road.

However, an additional surcharge may apply for pickups outside the 3 km radius. Alternatively, guests can opt to join the tour at designated meeting points.

The tour starts at 6:30 am and ends around 4:30 pm, so participants should plan accordingly.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, and infants can be accommodated by sitting on laps.

Guests are advised that the tour may be affected by weather or traffic, potentially causing 15-30 minute delays.

Reviews and Ratings

According to the available reviews, the Ayutthaya River Cruise from Bangkok has garnered a mixed set of ratings, with no 5-star reviews. Common complaints include poor tour guide performance and organization, while positive remarks highlight the historical significance and river cruise experience. Notably, some reviewers feel the tour provides limited time at the ruins and inadequate historical context. Despite these concerns, the tour’s SHA Plus certification indicates adherence to COVID-19 protocols, with 70% of staff vaccinated.

Rating	Number of Reviews
1-star	4
2-star	3
3-star	5
4-star	3
5-star	0

COVID-19 Protocols

The Ayutthaya River Cruise from Bangkok adheres to COVID-19 protocols, as evidenced by its SHA Plus certification. This certification indicates the tour operator’s compliance with safety measures set by the Thai government.

70% of the staff have been vaccinated, further ensuring the protection of guests. While the tour may face minor delays due to traffic or weather, these precautions demonstrate the operator’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience during the ongoing pandemic.

Travelers can book this tour with confidence, knowing that their health and safety are prioritized.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Boat Ride on the Chao Phraya River?

The tour includes an afternoon cruise on the Chao Phraya River, with a lunch buffet provided. The duration of the boat ride is not explicitly stated in the information provided.

Can We Stop and Explore the Temples on Our Own?

Unfortunately, guests on this tour are not given free time to explore the temples on their own. The tour follows a set itinerary with guided visits to the key sites in Ayutthaya.

Is There a Vegetarian/Halal Lunch Option Available?

The tour includes a Thai and international buffet lunch on board, but it does not specify if vegetarian or halal options are available. Guests should inquire with the tour operator about dietary accommodations prior to booking.

What Should We Bring for the Tour?

For the Ayutthaya tour, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to bring some cash for personal expenses and tipping the guide.

Are There Any Security or Safety Measures in Place?

The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide. It adheres to COVID-19 protocols, with 70% of staff vaccinated. However, travelers should follow the dress code when visiting temples for safety and respect.

Recap

The Grand Pearl River Cruise from Bangkok offers an immersive experience in the rich cultural heritage of Ayutthaya. With a guided tour, delectable lunch on board, and transportation, this SHA Plus certified tour provides a memorable journey through Thailand’s historical treasures. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient temples, and monasteries, all while enjoying a relaxing cruise on the Chao Phraya River.