River and Ocean Cruises in Asia

Bangkok's City Canals

The best way to see Bangkok - the "Venice of the East" - is by cruise on the city's canals, or "khlong" as they're known in Thailand.

In the gentle embrace of history, one might reminisce about the era when Bangkok breathed through its intricate veins of winding canals, or "klongs" as whispered in the melodious Thai tongue. Today, the echoes of the past murmur beneath the humming engines of cars and the steady footsteps upon paved roads. But amid the modern bustle, west of the majestic Chao Phraya River in the quaint Thonburi district, the ancient waterways still whisper tales of a time when they were the city’s beating heart. In addition to a multitude of homes and communities along the canals, are sacred temples, local markets, parks, and art spaces such as Baan Silipan (below)

The commuter boats, swift and fleeting, offer a glimpse into a local's journey. Yet, for those desirous of leisure and the allure of a city's secret narrations, the tourist boats promise a dance between the past and present. Departing from the renowned piers of Tha Chang and Tha Tien, cradled between the majesty of the Grand Palace and the serene Wat Pho, they offer passage not just across waters, but through time.

Afloat upon the gentle embrace of Khlong Bangkok Noi, one is serenaded by the rustling leaves of ancient trees. Each temple that graces the canal's banks is a sentinel of history, their intricate designs weaving tales of yesteryears. In the tender shadows of Khlong Mon, houses on stilts defy the laws of gravity, each a testament to the resilient spirit of Bangkok. During your cruise, pause at the Royal Barges National Museum, a silent ode to regality, and magnificent Wat Arun, standing gallant and imperious amidst the gentle lapping of the waves.

Weekends unveil the magic of Taling Chan Floating Market. Here, amidst the gentle ebb and flow of the waters, commerce and tradition unite. Every transaction, every exchange, is not merely of goods, but stories, smiles, and the unspoken bond that weaves the fabric of Bangkok’s soul.

While the charms of the canal could be fleetingly kissed in an hour, true immersion, the kind where the soul dances to the gentle rhythms of the water, demands at least an hour and a half, or two under the tender gaze of the sun. In this dance of time and tide, Bangkok unveils her secrets not just to the eyes, but to the soul, in the silent language where history and present breathe as one. In the style of Jan Morrison, this journey is not measured in miles, but in the silent moments where time stands still, and one is truly found amidst the lost echoes of the past.

Hong Kong Victoria Harbor

From the deck, sip a refreshing drink while soaking up the vivid sights and sounds of Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor and stunning skylines of the island and Kowloon. At sunset, enjoy the Symphony of Lights, a spectacular lights, laser and music show that lights up the harbor and the city’s skyscrapers.

Hong Kong's skyline, adorned with towering edifices and the entrancing dance of neon lights, illuminates the night, casting a mesmerizing glow that reflects the city’s vibrant energy. A cruise steers you into the heart of this visual spectacle, offering an unrivaled vantage point from the tranquil waters of Victoria Harbor, a busy tableaux hailed globally for its breathtaking beauty.

As the boat glides gracefully along the harbor, witness the iconic skylines of Central and Tsim Sha Tsui come alive, each glittering light weaving tales of a city where tradition and modernity embrace. Immerse yourself in this captivating spectacle, where architectural marvels stand as sentinels of Hong Kong’s dynamic pulse.

The pinnacle of an evening cruise is the Symphony of Lights. Witness the harbor transform into a canvas where laser beams dance with grace, illuminating the night with a luminosity that echoes the city's unyielding vibrancy. Every beam of light, echoing the harmonious notes of an unseen symphony, amplifies the enchanting allure of Victoria Harbor’s night scape. Amidst the gentle undulations of water, under the silent watch of the starlit sky, listen to the intimate concert of lights and music. In this mesmerizing ballet of illumination and sound, the splendor of Hong Kong unveils itself, not just to the eyes but to the soul, in a dance where the city’s radiant energy is intimately felt.