Cruise River Kwai Express - 6 days
6 Days Starting and ending in Bangkok, Thailand
Visiting: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Sai Yok
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2722/CRKE
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 20
Age range:
4-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 6-day journey through Thailand with the "Cruise River Kwai Express." Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Bangkok, exploring its bustling markets and cultural landmarks. Cruise along the River Kwai aboard a luxurious 5-star ship, visiting the iconic Bridge on the River Kwai and delving into Thailand's wartime history at the JEATH War Museum and Hellfire Pass. Discover the ancient wonders of Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park and the serene beauty of Sai Yok National Park's waterfalls. Engage in the spiritual act of giving merit to monks and explore historic shrines and temples, including the Tiger Cave Temple. With guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals included, this tour offers an enriching experience of Thailand's rich history and natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation Name: hotel
Sunday. Welcome to Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand! A world-renowned tourist destination, this vibrant city offers an eclectic mix of lively street life, cultural landmarks, and busy shopping areas.
Arriving at Suvarnabhumi or Donmuang Airport, you'll be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore Bangkok. Why not try some tasty street food or take a thrilling tuk tuk ride?
Day 2: Bangkok
Location: Kanchanaburi
Accommodation Name: RV River Kwai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bangkok - Ban Kao. Leaving behind bustling Bangkok, our journey to Kanchanaburi begins with a visit to Phra Pathom Chedi, home to Thailand's largest stupa, a monumental structure standing at an impressive 127 meters.
Next stops include the riverside Khao Noi Cave Temple (Wat Tham Khao Noi) and the nearby Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) which features Thai cultural artistry.
Upon our arrival in Kanchanaburi, we pay a visit to the JEATH War Museum, a poignant depiction of a World War II prisoner of war camp. The museum provides insight into the harrowing living conditions and the hardships endured by detainees who were forced to build the Thai-Burma 'Death Railway.'
From here, we board the RV River Kwai at Nong Ya Dock, a colonial-style inland cruise ship. Enjoy lunch and dinner aboard the ship, with the afternoon at leisure.
Day 3: Ban Kao
Location: Sai Yok
Accommodation Name: RV River Kwai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ban Kao - Sai Yok. Our relaxing river cruise continues upstream on the Kwai Noi River towards Muang Singh.
After breakfast, step ashore as we visit Prasat Muang Singh, a historical park adorned with Khmer architecture dating back a staggering 800 years.
We continue by coach to Tha Kilen Train Station, a site holding great significance during the construction of the Thai-Burma 'Death Railway.' Taking a third-class train to Saphan Tham Krasae, we will pass over 300 metre-long trestle bridges that cling to the cliff side.
On arrival, we visit the riverside Krasae Cave, which houses a revered Buddha image. We then continue by coach to Sai Yok village on the riverbank.
Lunch and dinner will take place onboard the ship, with the afternoon at leisure.
Day 4: Sai Yok
Location: Sai Yok
Accommodation Name: RV River Kwai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sai Yok - Ban Hin Dad. Today marks our final day of cruising! After breakfast, enjoy a short uphill stroll to Kaeng Lava Cave, the area's deepest cave filled with stalactites and hidden chambers.
Continuing our journey by coach, we reach Hellfire Pass, a notorious segment of the 'Death Railway,' meticulously carved through a towering stone mountain.
As we follow the trail leading to Hin Tok Bridge and the Konyu Cutting, we encounter a plaque, bearing witness to the profound hardships endured by the prisoners of war (POW) who were under Japanese enslavement during the railway's construction.
The Hin Lek Fai memorial complex stands as a poignant tribute to the fallen Allied soldiers and conscripted laborers from Burma, India, Malaysia, and Thailand, commemorating their sacrifices in building this harrowing passage.
We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the scenic Sai Yok National Park followed by a visit to the cascading Sai Yok Tai waterfalls.
The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Be sure to return to the cruiser tonight for a farewell dinner.
Day 5: Ban Hin Dad
Location: Kanchanaburi
Accommodation Name: RV River Kwai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Ban Hin Dad - Bangkok. Rise and shine with an early morning visit to a nearby temple. The temple visit provides an opportunity to engage in an act of 'merit' by offering food donations to the monks. Merit is believed to be a protective force that arises from performing good deeds. This sacred experience also creates a harmonious start to our day!
After breakfast back on the ship, we disembark and journey to Kanchanaburi, where we explore the captivating subterranean world of Wat Tham Khao Poon, featuring nine caverns adorned with Hindu and Buddhist shrines.
Our journey continues to the poignant Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum. Delve into the history of the 415km 'Death Railway,' built by enslaved Allied soldiers and Asian conscripts during World War II.
A visit to Don Rak War Cemetery follows, where 6,982 Allied POWs who lost their lives building the railway rest. We then reach the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai, famously known for inspiring the war-era film of the same name.
We enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant overlooking the bridge, before heading back to Bangkok.
Day 6: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Friday. Today marks the end of our Thailand adventure. The tour will conclude after hotel breakfast.
Whether you're continuing forward on your journey or heading back home now, take a moment to explore the markets for souvenirs or savor the delightful street food offerings, if time allows!
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 star -
5 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 3 dinners
Enjoy 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners during your tour.
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2 nights 4 star hotel & 3 nights accommodation on board the air-conditioned RV River Kwai
Stay for 2 nights in a 4-star hotel and 3 nights on board the air-conditioned RV River Kwai.
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Airport arrival transfer on day 1
Receive an airport arrival transfer on the first day of the tour.
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Escorted by an English-speaking Thai tour guide
The tour is escorted by an English-speaking Thai tour guide.
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Transportation and transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles, public train day 3
Transportation and transfers are provided in private air-conditioned vehicles, with a public train ride on day 3.
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Third class train ticket to Saphan Tham Krasae
A third-class train ticket to Saphan Tham Krasae is included.
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Guided sightseeing - Kanchanaburi, Ban Kao, Muang Singh, Sai Yok
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Kanchanaburi, Ban Kao, Muang Singh, and Sai Yok.
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Complimentary drinking water, tea & coffee on the ship
Complimentary drinking water, tea, and coffee are available on the ship.
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Entrance fees for all included sites
Entrance fees for all included sites are covered.
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All applicable taxes and service charges
All applicable taxes and service charges are included.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Tipping is not included and is considered an entirely personal gesture.
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Departure airport transfer
Departure airport transfer is not included in the tour package.
Age Policy
Children of 4 years and older must solely occupy a berth and pay the full rate (same as adults);Infants below the age of 4 years may sleep in their parent's cabin without extra charge but parents are to provide own baby food;
Mode of Transport
Travel in private air-conditioned vehicles and experience a public train journey on day 3. The tour includes an airport arrival transfer and a third-class train ticket to Saphan Tham Krasae, ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 2 nights in a 4-star hotel and 3 nights aboard the air-conditioned RV River Kwai, a colonial-style inland cruise ship, offering a comfortable and luxurious stay as you explore the scenic River Kwai.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 2 nights in a 4-star hotel and 3 nights on board the air-conditioned RV River Kwai.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking Thai tour guide.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation and transfers are provided in private air-conditioned vehicles, and there is a public train ride on day 3.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?
Yes, entrance fees for all included sites are covered in the tour price.
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Is there an airport transfer included in the tour?
Yes, an airport arrival transfer is included on day 1 of the tour.
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What is the policy for children on this tour?
Children aged 4 years and older must occupy a berth and pay the full rate. Infants below the age of 4 may sleep in their parent's cabin without extra charge, but parents must provide their own baby food.
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Is there any complimentary service provided on the ship?
Yes, complimentary drinking water, tea, and coffee are available on the ship.
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What is the significance of the merit-giving activity on the tour?
The merit-giving activity involves offering food donations to monks, which is believed to create a protective force through performing good deeds.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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