The Mass Transport Boats of Bangkok (Dao Khanong Klong Boat)

The Dao Khanong Klong Boat service is one of 2 relatively new mass transport boat services in Bangkok. The other boat service operated by BMA (Bangkok city council) is Memorial Bridge to Phet Kasem 20. Both of the mass transit boat services link Bangkok with inner Thonburi areas. These services were setup by BMA as a way to help commuters beat the crawling traffic during peak periods.

The Dao Khanong Klong Boat service operates from 6.45am to 9am (inbound only) and 5pm to 7pm (outbound only). The route is only 4.5 km long and takes about 20 minutes there is only 1 stop on the route at Wat Dao Khanong. The boats operate every 15 to 20 minutes. The fares are 15 baht per trip payable at the piers. A large number of connecting buses are available at Dao Khanong Pier.

A peak hour trip from Dao Khanong to Sathorn by Bus route 76 takes around 60 minutes. But only 20 minutes by the klong boat service. BTS trains connect with the klong boats at Sathorn Pier.

1. This is an image of the Dao Khanong boat at Sathorn Pier. These boats are a different design to the Chao Phraya riverboats. Boat Number 20.

2. This is a picture of the BMA klong boat holding area on the Thonburi side of the Taksin Bridge. Taken from Sathorn side of the river.

3. This is an inside shot of the passenger area on the Dao Khanong boat. Taken facing towards the front of the boat.

4. This is another inside shot facing towards the back. Note the engine and the small wooden sign that states “Sathorn to Dao Khanong”. The entrance to these boats is quite different as its from the middle of the boat rather than the back.

5. This is a picture of the captain’s seat on the Dao Khanong boat. Note: the captain’s family seems to travel with him on every trip.

6. This is an image of the Rama 3 and Krung Thep Bridges. This is an unusual bridge in that 2 separate bridges were built to serve the same road. Thus increasing the road capacity.

7. This is a close up shot of the lift up section of the older Krung Thep Bridge. The lift up section appears not to be opened very often.

8. This a picture of the flood control barrier at the entrance to Klong Dao Khanong. Note: During the rainy season the large orange gates will be closed and boats have to pass though a lock to enter the klong. The picture was taken during the dry season.

9. This is a short movie of a ride on the Mass transport boat on klong Dao Khanong. Note the passing though the flood control barrier and the rather black bad smelling water.

10. This is a shot of another flood control gate just before the final stop at Dao Khanong. Note the black water. Taken from the boat.

11. This is an image of the final approach to Dao Khanong pier. The piers are of the same style as the piers on the Chao Phaya River.

12. Another angle on the Dao Khanong pier. Showing the signage on the pier.

13. This is a shot of the klong boat used on the Dao Khanong boat service seen at Dao Khanong Pier. The mid boat entrance can be clearly seen.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.