Bangkok : The Manohra Song

by Benjamin Malcolm

The massive Chao Phraya River has played an important role in the history of Thailand. Over the centuries its annual floods have created a vast inland plain of fertile soil that provides the country with much of its food supply. It has also acted as a vital transportation link for getting goods to both domestic and international markets. Perhaps most importantly, the “River of Kings” has helped unify the country by providing a national symbol and an avenue for the various groups comprising the Thai population to communicate with one another.

Life on and along the river is always a fascinating sight and numerous tour boats provide visitors to Bangkok with a chance to view this activity. The boats range from simple “longtailed” boats powered by roaring automobile engines to luxury cruisers with every imaginable facility. The creme de la creme of the luxury class are the converted rice barges operated by Manohra Cruises. Its most impressive vessel is the Manohra Song.

Designed for only a limited number of guests, the Manohra Song possesses four air-conditioned staterooms with en suite bathrooms. The furnishings are spectacular and include objects of art, antiques, Oriental carpets, Thai fabrics and appointments made of teak and rare woods. The upper deck possesses a lounge, dining area and sun deck. There is a fully equipped galley, a bar and private quarters for the crew. The boat possesses two engines for manoeuverability and always has a captain, Chief Steward and Assistant Steward on board.

Aside from its luxury, what really sets the Manohra Song apart from other Chao Phraya cruise boats is its sumptuous staterooms. Imagine cruising one of the world's most famous rivers and retiring at night to a private cabin with air-conditioning, hot shower, separate vanity, fresh flowers and luxurious towels. These amenities enable guests to enjoy sublimely comfortable and leisurely trips along the river without worrying about hurrying back to Bangkok or to a hotel to spend the night.

The Manohra Song's repertoire includes three separate cruises. On Monday and Wednesday it travels up-river from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, with Monday or Wednesday night aboard and the return to Bangkok made by private car. On Tuesday and Thursday, guests travel to Ayutthaya by private car and then proceed down-river from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, with Tuesday or Thursday night spent aboard the vessel. On weekends, there is a roundtrip available with the entire journey spent aboard the Manohra Song.

Although space precludes a description of all of the trips, the all-inclusive weekend trip is especially delightful.

The cost for each of the three of the cruises is US$390 single and US$650 double. The prices are inclusive of meals, guides, ground tours, admission charges and private car transfers.

For those who really want to experience luxury and something unique, the Manohra Song can be chartered for day cruises or multi-day cruises. Private charters are limited to eight adults unless other arrangements are made in advance.

Manohra and Manohra Moon, the other two converted rice barges operated by Manohra Cruises are available for lunch, dinner and cocktail cruises. If you are interested, call the company for details. But don't forget, if you are seeking upmarket luxury at its best, the Manohra Song is the ideal way to tour the might Chao Phraya River. Take one of these cruises and you will be given memories that will last a lifetime.