Originally posted on Travel Asia - Travel Europe| Bangkok to Krakow.com
Photo from Flickr by Weerakarn
The recently restored Antarta Cruise ships are the perfect way to travel around the complex maze of authentic canals that meander through the cosmopolitan city of Bangkok. It is also a great escape from the congestion on land and provides a relaxing alternative method of travel to some of Thailand’s most iconic attractions. You can enjoy observing traditions in action on the waterside against a stunning modern and rather majestic backdrop.
The Ships
Originally used as rice barges, the Antarta Song and the Antarta Dream luxury cruise ships combine traditional fixtures and woods, such as mahogany and padua with modern, vibrant oriental colours. Stunning Asian art and interesting historical artefacts, divine Thai materials of cotton and silk and their world renowned oriental rugs are combined to provide the perfect setting of tranquility.
You can take in cooling refreshments in the fully stocked bar on the upper deck, or relax in the spacious lounge which also includes a dining area for meals whilst you are on board. For your comfort there is a separate sun deck where you can lay and relax, or enjoy the stunning views of all the markets and traditional Thai temples that line the riverscape on both sides of the water.
Cruise itinerary
As part of a three day/two night ‘Ayutthaya Thousand Golden Temples Adventure Tour’, the Antarta Song and Antarta Dream cruise consists of a sail along the famous Chas Phraya River. Known traditionally as the ‘river of memory’ it courses through the heart of Thailand and is a hugely worshipped feature within the Thai community, who often refer to it as the bloodline of their kingdom.
Further on, the journey includes a stop off at the one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, the Temple of Dawn. This is an historic Buddhist temple in the district of Bangkok Yai and one of the most famous of Thailand’s many landmarks.
The next part of the cruise takes in the UNESCO world heritage site, in the ancient city and previous capital of Thailand, Autthaya, where you will see huge Buddhist monasteries and historical stone towers. The cruise will end at the home of one of the largest and oldest bronze statues of Buddha, the Wat Mongkham Bophit Temple. Thought to have been built in 1538 the “Buddha of the Holy and Supremely Auspicious Reverence” is a fittingly breath-taking way to end this cruise.
For those who prefer a more personal touch and some privacy on their break, the Antarta Dream is available for exclusive bookings only. In addition to the experience of the cruise along the canals, a private charter will offer many extras including an on board yoga retreat and relaxing Spa sessions.
There is also an opportunity to enjoy private cooking classes whilst aboard, together with Thai wine tasting sessions. For the more adventurous traveller, there is even the option to take the helm yourself and enjoy a personal sailing lesson with the captain of the ship. This guest post has been written on behalf of cruise.co.uk who are the leading market provider of cruises. If you are considering a holiday or maybe a cruise click to find out more
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