Excursion A day in bangkok tour at Laem Chabang

After an early breakfast, depart the ship for the 2,5-hour journey to Bangkok. Upon arrival, enjoy a sightseeing drive of the city followed by a visit of Bangkok's most splendid attraction, the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and a river cruise to Wat Arun.

Grand Palace

During this 90-minute visit, listen and look in awe as the guide points out the major highlights.

Although King Vajiiralongkorn lives today in the Dusit Palace in the northern part of the city, the Grand Palace is still used for certain ceremonial occasions. The grounds encompass over 100 buildings, representing 200 years of history and architectural experimentation. Most of the architecture, royal or sacred, can be classified as old Bangkok style - all of it simply overwhelming. The wat (temple) structures are colourful, comprising gilded stupas, polished orange and green tiled roofs, mosaic-encrusted pillars and rich marble pediments. Fabulous murals line the walls of the palace complex and glittering temple spires provide endless photo opportunities.

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Also known as Wat Phra Kaew, this temple adjoins the Grand Palace on common ground. It was consecrated in 1782 and houses the most important image, the 23-inch (58-cm) high Emerald Buddha. The jade statue, enshrined in a glass case standing above the worshippers, is clothed with a different robe for each of the three seasons - hot, rainy and cool. The mystical figure and its legendary spiritual power draw pilgrims from all over.

Returning, head to Sala Rim Naam Restaurant of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for Thai buffet lunch (the Mandarin Hotel itself is located on the opposite side of the river). Board a private boat at the restaurant's pier for a cruise on the Chao Phraya River and through some of the canals. Watch the fascinating activities along the busy waterway. Stop along the way at the following locations (Take caution getting in and out of the boat.):

Wat Arun

At the 'Temple of Dawn', Wat Arun, the boat pauses to allow you a closer look at this magnificent temple, which is among Bangkok's most recognised landmarks. While the temple is best seen from the river, its curious decorations and statues of mythical figures are well worth a visit.

Royal Barge Museum

Leaving Wat Arun, resume your cruise through the klongs (canals) and head toward the Dockyard, home to the ceremonial royal barges. Once a year, the king would proceed down the river to Wat Arun in a flotilla of royal barges. Today, these elaborately decorated boats are preserved in this specially constructed museum and are a rare treat to visit.

Following your cruise, re-join the coach and start the journey back to Laem Chabang.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew or Temple of the Emerald Buddha Image,Lunch, boat ride on Chao Phraya River with stops to visit the Temple of Dawn and Royal Barges Museum.

Note

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking with many steps to climb. Guests must be able to manoeuvre in and out of the boat. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. A strict dress code is enforced for visitors to the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. No tank tops, leggings, shorts of any kind, skirts above the knee, sandals or flip-flops are allowed. Men must wear socks. Video and still cameras are only permitted on the palace grounds, not inside buildings. Shoes must be removed when entering the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha. This tour departs from the pier and ends at the pier in Laem Chabang. The drive to/from Laem Chabang and Bangkok is approximately 2.5 hours.