A free thing to do in Bangkok with kids, offering canal boat rides through the heart of Bangkok Old Town
If sitting in traffic with kids sounds like your idea of chaos, this thing to do in Bangkok with kids might be your new favourite way to get around. The Bangkok Metropolitan Authority is trialling electric boat taxis along Bangkok Old Town, offering free rides until 28 February.
These small electric boats glide along the canal between Hua Lamphong Railway Station Pier and Phra Sumen Fort Pier in Bang Lamphu. They’re quieter than traditional canal boats, produce no exhaust fumes and feel smoother.
What is the electric boat taxi service?
This pilot project is part of Bangkok’s shift towards cleaner public transport. The electric boat taxis serve 14 piers along the canal, linking key transport hubs with historic districts and local neighbourhoods.
The route connects Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Phra Sumen Fort, passing stops such as Thewet Market and other piers near cafes, local eateries and cultural landmarks.
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Inside electric boat taxi service: What families can expect
With multiple central stops linking transport hubs and historic neighbourhoods, this is a thing to do in Bangkok with kids where transport becomes part of the adventure.
Booking required
Reserve your ride via the MuvMi app. Choose your pick-up and drop-off pier to fit your family’s schedule.
Small-group setting
Each boat carries up to six passengers, so it feels calm and manageable compared to larger commuter boats.
Smooth ride
The boat cruises at around 13km/h. The pace is steady and comfortable for children while still helping you skip road traffic.
Free trial
Rides are free until 28 February. Regular fares are expected to begin in March 2026 at rates similar to MuvMi electric tuk-tuks.
Which piers does the boat stop at?
The electric boat taxis stops at the following piers along Phadung Krung Kasem Canal, linking transport hubs, local markets and historic neighbourhoods around Bangkok Old Town.
- Hua Lamphong Railway Station Pier
- Ratchadamnoen Nok Pier
- Nopphawong Pier
- Yotse Pier
- Ministry of Energy Pier
- Lan Luang Intersection Pier
- Thewet Pier
- Thewarat Market Pier
- Prachathipatai Pier
- Chao Pho Taksin Shrine Pier
- Nakhon Sawan Pier
- Phrarachathipatai Pier
- Ban Phan Thom Pier
- Phra Sumen Fort Pier
Why families are excited about the electric boat taxi service
For families, riding a boat through the city feels like a small adventure together. You’re travelling along what used to be Bangkok’s original roads, long before cars filled the streets. With only six passengers on board, the atmosphere stays calm and manageable, giving everyone space to sit comfortably and chat without the loud roar of a diesel engine in the background.
Why this matters to families in Bangkok
Bangkok’s canals were once the lifelines of the city, with the Chao Phraya River acting as the main transport artery. Reviving canal travel in a cleaner, quieter way gives families another practical option for getting around, while also offering a simple thing to do in Bangkok with kids that reconnects them with the city’s heritage in a fun and memorable way.
Good to know before you go
Best for: Families wanting a relaxed, traffic-free outing
Where: Bangkok Old Town, Phadung Krung Kasem Canal, from Hua Lamphong Railway Station Pier to Phra Sumen Fort Pier, Bangkok
How much: Free until 28 February (trial period) and will start at B20 after.
When: Daily, 9am–5pm (advance booking via MuvMi app required)
