Discover the Wonders of Thailand on a Cruise
Thailand, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, offers an unforgettable cruising experience that allows you to explore its many treasures. From bustling cities to tropical beaches, a cruise through Thailand showcases not only its natural beauty but also its rich history and welcoming locals. Fun fact: Thailand is home to over 1,400 islands, each boasting unique attractions and tropical vibes! A cruise is the perfect way to hop between these beautiful destinations while enjoying everything this Southeast Asian gem has to offer.
Top Harbours to Visit in Thailand
When cruising Thailand, you’ll dock at several amazing harbours that allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and stunning scenery:
Bangkok (Klong Toey)
As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a vibrant hub of activity. Once your cruise docks, take a long-tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to witness the city’s fast-paced charm from the water. Make sure to visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho to see the iconic reclining Buddha. If you have time, head to a local market and sample delicious street food—don’t miss trying pad thai or mango sticky rice!
Phuket
Phuket is known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere. Upon arrival, you can relax at the famous Patong Beach or take a boat trip to the stunning Phi Phi Islands, a must-see for snorkellers and beach lovers. For a unique local experience, wander through the Old Town to discover Sino-Portuguese architecture and vibrant street art, and be sure to try some local seafood before heading back to your ship.
Ko Samui
Ko Samui is a tropical paradise characterised by palm-fringed beaches and a vibrant nightlife. Once docked, explore the beautiful Big Buddha Temple and the scenic Na Muang Waterfalls. Don’t miss the chance to unwind on Chaweng Beach or take a Thai cooking class for a truly immersive experience. If you’re looking for some adventure, consider hiring a scooter to explore the island at your own pace!
Ko Kut
Less touristy than its neighbours, Ko Kut is perfect for those looking to experience Thailand’s natural beauty. When you arrive, enjoy a peaceful day on the beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or explore the island’s jungle trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a kayak tour to explore the stunning coastline from the water and discover hidden lagoons.
Ko Kood
Known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Ko Kood offers a serene escape. As your cruise docks, head to Ao Prao Beach for sunbathing or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters. Experience the island’s lush landscapes by cycling through its scenic paths or visit the local fishing villages to get a taste of everyday life in Thailand.
Key Ports Often Visited Before or After Cruising Thailand
There are several ports that are commonly visited on cruises to Thailand, enhancing the overall journey:
Singapore
A bustling global city, Singapore is often a starting point for cruises heading to Thailand. Take in the stunning skyline, visit the iconic Gardens by the Bay, or explore Little India and Chinatown for a taste of diverse cultures. If time allows, enjoy the delicious street food at hawker centres before setting off on your cruise!
Hong Kong
Known for its fascinating fusion of East and West, Hong Kong is a vibrant port that welcomes cruisers with open arms. When you dock, hike up to Victoria Peak for unparalleled views of the city or explore the bustling markets and shops of Mong Kok. Make sure to try some dim sum before continuing on your journey!
Bangkok (Klong Toey)
While it’s the primary destination in Thailand, Bangkok is frequently visited before or after cruising to nearby islands. As mentioned earlier, visiting the Grand Palace and taking a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River are must-do experiences. You’ll find ample opportunities to indulge in shopping, dining, and exploration in this bustling metropolis!
Keelung (Taipei)
Located in Taiwan, Keelung serves as a convenient port for those travelling to Thailand. Enjoy a day exploring the nearby city of Taipei, where you can admire the Taipei 101 skyscraper and sample local delicacies at the night markets.
Dubai
Some cruises to Thailand may include stops in Dubai, known for its modern architecture and luxury experiences. Explore the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, or visit the Dubai Mall. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the traditional souks for a taste of the culture before your cruise departs.
Best Times to Cruise Thailand
The ideal time to cruise Thailand is from December to April, when temperatures generally range between 25°C to 35°C. The weather is typically dry during these months, making it perfect for beach activities and sightseeing. If you prefer to avoid crowds and still enjoy warm temperatures, consider cruising from May to September, when temperatures can be cooler at around 25°C to 30°C. However, keep in mind that there may be more chance of rain during this period!
Cruise Pricing Overview for Thailand
Wondering about the costs of cruising Thailand? Generally, a 1-week cruise can range from $1,200 to $2,500 for standard cruises and $4,000 to $7,000 for luxury options. For a 2-week adventure, prices can range from $2,000 to $4,500 for regular cruises and $8,000 or higher for luxury experiences. Typically, the cheapest rates are available during the shoulder season of September to October, while the peak season during December to February can come with a higher price tag. As for dining in the region, you can expect to pay about $10 to $25 for a meal, while beverages might set you back $3 to $10.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Thailand
- Norwegian Cruise Line
With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 4 vessels visiting Thailand, including Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Spirit. Departures mainly occur from Singapore or Keelung (Taipei). Known for its flexible cruising experience, Norwegian provides diverse onboard entertainment and dining options, catering to all tastes.
- Holland America Line
This cruise line operates 11 ships, with 4 sailing to Thailand, notably Westerdam and Zuiderdam. Departures can be expected from Sydney or international ports like Singapore and Hong Kong. Holland America is well-regarded for its enriched itineraries that encourage cultural exploration and immersive experiences at each port of call.
- Princess Cruises
Princess has a fleet of 17 ships, with 2 dedicated to Thailand itineraries—Diamond Princess and Coral Princess. Most cruises depart from Sydney or international destinations like Singapore and Los Angeles. The cruise line is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and variety of entertainment options, making it a popular choice for all types of travelers.
- Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity boasts 16 ships, with 2 visiting Thailand: Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice. Departures typically occur from Singapore or Hong Kong. Celebrity is known for its exceptional dining experiences and upscale ambience, delivering a modern twist on luxury cruising.
- Royal Caribbean Cruises
Royal Caribbean features a massive fleet of 29 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Thailand, including Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. Most sailings take place from Singapore or Dubai. The cruise line is celebrated for its innovative onboard experiences and thrilling entertainment, ensuring guests have an enjoyable time on their journey!
Luxury and Small Ship Options
- Oceania Cruises
With a total fleet size of 8 ships, Oceania has 6 that visit Thailand, namely Regatta and Riviera. Most departures occur from Singapore or Hong Kong, and Oceania is known for its exquisite dining options, as well as immersive, destination-focused itineraries that ensure each port is fully explored.
- Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 2 that explore Thailand—Viking Orion and Viking Venus. Departures are frequent from Sydney or international ports like Bangkok and Benoa. Viking takes pride in its insightful itineraries and all-inclusive offerings, ensuring that guests enjoy both luxury and cultural enrichment.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
This luxury cruise line has a fleet of 6 ships, with 5 visiting Thailand, including Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Mariner. The majority of sailings depart from Bangkok or Miami. Regent is renowned for its all-inclusive luxury experience, where every detail is taken care of, allowing cruisers to enjoy their holiday to the fullest.
- Silversea
Silversea features a fleet of 13 ships, 4 of which sail to Thailand, including Silver Whisper and Silver Dawn. Departures typically take place from Brisbane or Melbourne, with international options from Singapore and Mumbai. Silversea’s ultra-luxury approach centres around personalised service and exclusive shore experiences.
- Seabourn
Seabourn operates 6 ships, with 1 offering a Thai itinerary, particularly Seabourn Encore. The ships typically depart from Singapore or Hong Kong. Seabourn is known for its intimate experiences and unrivalled attention to detail, ensuring a luxury cruise experience unlike any other.
Consider Alternatives for Your Next Adventure
If you’re intrigued by Thailand’s rich culture and stunning scenery, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise:
- Bali: Known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, Bali offers incredible relaxation and adventure opportunities. The island is famous for its traditional arts and crafts, making it perfect for those wanting a unique cultural experience.
- Caribbean: With vibrant local culture, beautiful beaches, and diverse marine life, the Caribbean is a fantastic alternative for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. A cruise allows you to hop between numerous islands while soaking up the local hospitality.
- Vietnam: Rich in history and stunning landscapes, Vietnam offers a fascinating blend of ancient culture and modern vibrancy! Cruising through Ha Long Bay, with its limestone karsts and emerald waters, is an experience not to be missed.
- Malaysia: With its diverse ethnicities and cinematic landscapes, Malaysia offers stunning beaches, incredible food and a variety of outdoor activities. An alternative cruise destination that provides an enriching experience for all visitors!
- Singapore: As a vibrant city-state, Singapore combines modernity with rich history. Its stunning skyline, multicultural neighbourhoods, and fantastic cuisine make it an ideal destination to explore before or after your Thai cruising adventures.
Thailand awaits with its stunning scenery, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Book your vibrant cruise holiday with CruiseAway today and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!