In recent months, the five-star Banyan Tree Bangkok unveiled Saffron Cruise—essentially a floating version of the hotel’s F&B outlets. Hop on daily for the sunset cruise (B550, including a cocktail), when you can enjoy a Thai basil-, lime- and Mekhong rum-based Thai Sabai on the rooftop deck. With its oval centrepiece bar, glass-sided walkway and funky electronic and pop music soundtrack, the space is designed to resemble the hotel’s iconic Moon Bar.

When darkness falls, head downstairs to the elegant restaurant, where glass walls curve overhead to facilitate gorgeous views of the riverside. Dark woods, black furnishings, lattice flooring and pops of bronze define the golden-lit dining area, blending traditional and contemporary Thai aesthetics. The soundtrack of Thai instrumental music and the khon masked dance performance that interrupts dinner may appeal to tourists, but this is a world away from the chaotic buffet set-ups found on most dinner cruises. Across five courses served a la minute (B3,200, inclusive of a welcome cocktail), the traditional Thai menu takes its cues from the Banyan Tree’s signature Saffron restaurant and will change every two months.

Currently, you can begin with chicken, cashew nut and sweet chili paste, served neatly in a crispy golden cup, followed by a khao yum-referencing scallop salad. Next up, a plump river prawn and cowslip creeper elevate the tom kha, while rich and creamy panang curry sauce is poured on top of melt-in-your-mouth soft slow-cooked beef. The delicious mango creme brulee, served with a side of luscious pumpkin coconut ice cream, offers a sweet endnote.

The sunset cruise departs from IconSiam Pier 2 at 5:30pm daily, followed by the dinner cruise at 7pm. To book, visit the website.