Dining/Drinking

Chao Phraya Okura Cruise news: meticulously crafted in collaboration with Yamazato restaurant, the world’s first Japanese dining experience of its kind has been launched in Bangkok. The Okura Cruise, a part of the ‘AWC River Journey Project’, offers a truly unique experience by blending exceptional hospitality offerings along the iconic river. Travellers from around the world are invited to immerse themselves in the charm of the river, exploring its rich cultural heritage and riverside architectural wonders.

The cruise offers exclusive event venues for individual bookings, private charters, elegant weddings, and bespoke corporate gatherings, offering a flexible yet intimate and spacious setting for unforgettable occasions.

Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) and Hotel Okura Co., Ltd., a world-renowned hotel chain that blends traditional Japanese beauty with top-tier accommodation, cuisine and service, together launched this Okura Cruise, which blends authentic Japanese culinary traditions and modern interpretations. This stunning floating cuisine journey redefines riverside sophistication with its seamless integration of exceptional dining, Japanese-inspired design, and world-class hospitality. The dining cruise invites guests to embark on an unforgettable journey, celebrating the harmonious blend of Japanese elegance and Bangkok’s vibrant cultural heritage, strengthening Thailand’s position as a premier global tourism destination and Bangkok’s charming riverside attractions that welcome travellers from around the globe.

At the heart of the Okura Cruise is its exceptional dining experience, complemented by a wide range of innovative drink offerings, including traditional Japanese Sake, handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and champagne. Guests can indulge in two curated culinary journeys:

Kaiseki Set Experience: Rooted in the Japanese philosophy of ‘shoku no ryori,’ or “cuisine of the moment,” Kaiseki highlights the use of seasonal ingredients to reflect the beauty of nature. Guests can savor delicacies such as Zensai (appetizers) and Otsukuri (sashimi), meticulously crafted to harmonize taste, texture, and presentation.

Teppanyaki Set Experience: An immersive chef’s table experience, where expertly trained chefs prepare meals with precision and flair, against the backdrop of Bangkok’s iconic riverscapes and sunsets.

The Okura Cruise’s design is a seamless blend of Japanese craftsmanship and modern sophistication, embodying elegance in every detail. Its striking Origami-inspired architecture, adorned with a shimmering gold-painted exterior, pays homage to traditional Japanese aesthetics. Inside, the cruise immerses guests in timeless Japanese design elements, such as the rooftop Sake Bar, an origami-inspired retreat surrounded by a glimpse of the golden prosperous Suiseki Zen Garden and seating overlooking the Chao Phraya River, a first-of-its-kind in Thailand.

Adding to its charm, the cruise boasts exclusive front-deck seating, offering the most intimate and romantic spot onboard with 360-degree views of the Chao Phraya River, strengthened by traditional Japanese dining arrangements and attentive service. For larger gatherings, the multi-purpose platform on the roof deck serves as an exclusive venue for weddings, performances, and private events, all set against the enchanting riverscape. As Bangkok’s first dedicated Floating MICE facility, the cruise is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and adaptable spaces, accommodating up to 100 guests. Its seamless combination of intimate and open areas ensures unforgettable moments, making the Okura Cruise a one-of-a-kind destination on the river.

Beyond hosting private and corporate events, the cruise also welcomes individuals to enjoy its luxurious setting, exquisite Japanese cuisine, and stunning views of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks along the Chao Phraya River. The typical roundtrip cruise runs from early evening until late evening, offering a luxurious journey along the river. Guests boarding the Okura Cruise begin their journey at the exclusive Okura Reception at Asiatique the Riverfront Destination, where they are greeted with authentic Japanese tea and desserts in a serene Zen-inspired setting. Onboard, the crew dressed in kimono-inspired uniforms delivers the signature Omotenashi service, ensuring personalized and heartfelt care. Guests will then experience exceptional Kaiseki and Teppanyaki cuisine, while taking in the stunning night views of Bangkok’s iconic riverside landmarks. Lastly, the rooftop Sake bar provides a perfect spot to unwind with panoramic views of the night sky and vivid colours of the city.

The nightly route runs from Asiatique the Riverfront Destination to the Rama VIII Bridge, passing iconic landmarks such as Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), with private charters available for bespoke journeys. Special routes for festive occasions, like New Year’s Eve, offer guests a spectacular countdown fireworks display onboard. Guests can elevate special seasonal celebrations with exclusive Sake Rounds and Sunset Rounds and indulge in curated moments of relaxation and luxury with premium sake or toast to breathtaking sunsets. Each journey is thoughtfully designed to create unforgettable memories. Additionally, the cruise will be available for private charter booking for exclusive trips to Ayutthaya, allowing guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of this historic city in unparalleled luxury. These unique experiences promise unforgettable moments of luxury and celebration.

The Okura Cruise will play a key role in connecting over 10 locations in the pipeline under the “AWC River Journey Project,” which aims to strengthen river tourism and Bangkok’s waterways. Following the launch of the ‘EA’ Rooftop at the Empire earlier this year, the Okura Cruise also complements AWC’s Lifestyle Destinations which focuses on developing premier hotel and retail destinations in Bangkok, through a unique hospitality model that highlights the Chao Phraya River, further supporting Thailand’s position as a global tourism destination.

Reservations are now open for an unforgettable journey aboard the Okura Cruise. Discover a harmonious blend of Japanese elegance and Bangkok’s vibrant riverscape, creating timeless moments to treasure. The typical roundtrip runs from 19:00 to 22:30 hrs every night, with special routes and schedules to be announced for festive seasons.

For more information and reservations email okuracruise@okurabangkok.com