Specifically designed for commuters, the service is currently operating on a trial basis during the morning and evening rush hours on weekdays. The ferries run at 20-minute intervals from 06:00 to 09:00 and again from 16:00 to 19:30.
At the weekends, ferries run once an hour in each direction. The service has been launched with six ferries, but a spokesperson for Bangkok’s Transport Bureau said another six are due to be delivered in August.
The new ferries have been built out of fibreglass and come with features like full disabled access, wireless internet connectivity and CCTV. They are also GPS enabled so that inspectors can make sure pilots do not exceed the permitted maximum speed of 10kph.
During the trial runs for April, the ferry service is free. The Transport Bureau says it plans to announce fare schedules before the end of April. Phasi Charoen ferries are perfect for visitors who wish to experience a neighbourhood of Bangkok not typically on tour group itineraries.
New ferry service launches on Bangkok canal
News in Asia
On Friday, authorities in Bangkok inaugurated a public passenger ferry service on one of the city’s arterial canals. The service plies a route along Phasi Charoen Canal between Pratunam Phasi Charoen Pier in Bangkok Yai to a terminus pier near the BTS Skytrain’s Bang Wa Station on Ratchaphruek Road.