A unique opportunity to explore Thailand’s rural heartland along the Chao Phraya River on board a traditional teak rice barge. Leave Bangkok behind as the river weaves through the Central Plains and discover a region of Thailand that is rarely visited by tourists.

Winner of the award for The Best Inbound Tour Programme at the Thailand Tourism Awards of 2004

Day 1
Board our comfortable converted rice barge "Thanatharee". A cruise heads upriver to the unspoilt Maenam Noi, a small branch of the main Chao Phraya River, passing through rich agricultural areas dotted with small towns and villages where life moves at a slower and more gentle pace. With bicycles on board, frequent stops are made along the way to explore the countryside and observe way of life and culture of the rural Thai people.  There will be opportunities to see the traditional handicrafts still produced in these areas and meet with the local people, in a world far removed from the usual tourist haunts. Meals served on board. Coffee, tea and seasonal fruits are available at all times. Moor at a small village in the evening and tie up for the night.

Day 2
An opportunity to give food to the monks on their morning alms round and then cycling to explore the villages with opportunities to talk to school kids, old folks or farmers then rejoin the barge for total relaxation. Those who wish to learn the secret of Thai cuisine are always welcome to join our crew for meal preparation. Overnight on board at another small village.

Day 3
There is time for a leisurely breakfast and a cycling ride this morning to explore local activities. Then cruise along peaceful river branch to meet main Chao Phraya River with possibilities for more stops if time permits. Disembark at approximately 11:30-12:00 hrs. to depart for the next destination.
End of services.

Remarks

• During the months, normally, around September-November it may not be possible to use the Maenam Noi in which case the itinerary will follow the main Chao Phraya River.
• The activities and schedule are subject to change without prior notice due to local conditions.
• Kindly enquire for detailed programs of each departure.
• In a rare case that there are more than 12 joining persons, the sleeping area for additional persons will be in the barge’s common area (on the upper deck, space is available for a maximum of 4 persons). Mosquito nets, pillows and blankets are provided.

• Saturday departure, Bangkok – Maenam Noi - Ayudhaya
  • Saturday transfer is at approximately 07:00-07:30 hrs from your hotel in central area of Bangkok to start   the cruise at Wat Chalerm Phra Kiat.
  • The cruise ends on Monday at Wat Prasat Pier in Ayudhaya approximately at 12:00 hrs.
• Wednesday departure, Ayudhaya – Maenam Noi – Bangkok
  • Trip starts on Wednesday at the pier in Ayudhaya at approximately 13:30 hrs.
  • Cruise ends on Friday at approximately 15:00-15:30 hrs at Wat Chalerm Phra Kiat. Then transfer to arrive at your hotel in the central area of Bangkok at approximately 17:00 hrs.

Remark:
We reserve right to adjust all prices or apply a fuel surcharge if the fuel cost is higher than 38 Baht per liter.

Charge for children aged 4-11 years:
50% of tour rate when joining the tour with 2 paying adults
(Maximum 1 child per booking, second child charge at 75%)
FOC for children aged less than 4 years (no bed required).

Services included in the price:

• On board Thanatharee

The barge provides air-conditioned multi-share accommodation for a maximum of 12 persons, the bedroom area being divided into two sections by a curtain. One common bathroom and one toilet are located on the main deck; a second toilet is on the upper deck. Please bring your own personnel toiletries (towel and soap are provided).

• Full board during the cruise.
• All services and activities described in the itineraries.
• English-speaking assistance.

Services not included in the price:

• Airfares, travel insurance and taxes.
• Soft drinks (except water) and alcoholic beverages.
• Meals not mentioned in the above itinerary.
• Tips for the crew.
• Personal expenses.

Thanatharee Rice Barge
Our barge, named “Thanatharee” or Treasure on the Water, is 21.1 metres in length and 5.9 metres in width.  It provides simple but comfortable air-conditioned multi-share accommodation with on-board shower and toilets.  The maximum capacity is 12 passengers.

The spacious upper deck has ample room to relax, enjoy a refreshing drink, read, play games or just watch the world drifting gently by.  There is also a sun deck for anyone wanting to work on their tans.  Meals will be served on board, and everyone is welcome to help in the cooking and learn something about the art of Thai cooking.  One may also accompany the cook to the local market and shops for the day’s ingredients.