BANGKOK, THAILAND – Bangkok prepared to launch an app-based water taxi network on its historic canals from mid-December, aiming to cut congestion and create new tourism corridors.
App brings boats directly to passengers
From mid-December, a new smartphone app was set to allow passengers to summon boats directly to canal piers, with eight modern water taxis ready to operate on key routes through the city’s historic waterways. A pilot phase with two electric boats had already been described as a major success, with each vessel able to carry up to eight passengers and gliding almost silently at around 12 km/h.
“This is only the beginning of a new era,”
said a BMA spokesman.
First routes link stations and tourist hotspots
The initial route connected Klong Phadung Krung Kasem and Klong Bang Lamphu, passing major sights such as Hua Lamphong station, Khao San Road and Bobae Market. A second line between Klong Ong Ang and Klong Saen Saep was already in planning, taking passengers past the shopping hubs Siam Paragon and CentralWorld. Fares were to start at 60 baht (about 1.50 euros), promoted as a bargain compared with road taxis stuck in traffic.
New piers scheduled through early 2026
By January 2026, four permanent piers were due to be built along Klong Bang Lamphu, including Chao Pho Nu Shrine Pier, Wat Bowon Niwet Pier, Chalerm Wan Chat Bridge Pier and Queen’s Gallery Pier. The budget for 2026 had already been approved, and
“The designs must be tidy and appealing,”
said BMA secretary Narong Ruangsri, adding that the canals were intended to serve not only as transport routes but also as tourist attractions.
Tourism corridors and local income
The project was tied to a broader vision of sustainable tourism and new economic opportunities for residents along the canals. Traditional floating markets and cultural events were to be revived so that the once-neglected waterways could become urban tourism corridors.
“We want to create income opportunities for the communities,”
emphasized Narong, noting that all agencies had been instructed to speed up work, maintain cleanliness and ensure safety.
Daily service and a new way to experience Bangkok
From December, passengers were expected to explore Bangkok away from road congestion, with boats scheduled to run daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The combination of modern technology and traditional canal landscapes was presented as a distinctive experience for both residents and visitors.
“This is more than just transport – it is a new way of life for Bangkok,”
said a city planner, as officials promoted the start of the water taxi era on the capital’s canals.