Yes, that's about it. I really don't see the royal barges as a priority but no harm in checking them out if you are interested. I would do Wat Arun on a separate trip so you can take your time meandering around. If you do the Grand Palace/Wat Po, Wat Arun is just a short ferry ride across the river from the same pier as the river taxi.

Got it. Since we might visit Wat Arun when we tour with Tong's guide, we may not get off the boat during the klong tour, but my husband might be interested in seeing the royal barges.

Thanks again to everyone for their feedback! As always it has been very helpful.

10-15 min at the barges is enough...

i will be in bkk in a couple of weeks. been hearing many great things about the Chatuchak weekend market so I will go there sunday morning. is there a place nearby this market where i can do this klong tour?

thanks!

The klong tours that I've taken all "spin" off of the Chao Phraya River, near the Oriental/Peninsula, which is not close to the weekend market.

itsmesophia-The simple answer is no. Plus, if you buy a bunch of stuff, you'll want to return to base before setting out on a klong tour. The best thing is to do the market in the morning (it's hot and morning is best). Return to the hotel. Go on a Klong tour from one of the piers (Tha) in the afternoon. It's actually cool on the water.

thank you. very helpful.

What's all this about Tong Tours i keep on reading? No point on hiring a personal tour guide at all to go on a Klong Tour or see the Floating Market. Just joined organized tour when you arrive.