Intro: Han River Night Cruise Review
Seoul is a city that transforms by night, its skyline glittering like a galaxy brought down to Earth. And there’s no better way to see it than from the water. But when you search for the “Han River night cruise,” you’re hit with a dozen options: music cruises, dinner cruises, sunset cruises… It’s overwhelming. You start asking the big questions: Is it a magical experience or just an overpriced tourist trap? Which one should I even choose?
A few months ago, my partner and I were in the exact same boat (pun intended). We wanted a memorable date night but were terrified of picking the wrong cruise and ending up with a cheesy, disappointing experience. So we did the research, picked one, and took copious notes. This is the no-fluff, brutally honest review I wish we’d had. We’ll break down the options, the real-life experience, the cost, and answer the ultimate question: Is it worth your money?
First Things First: Understanding Your Options (E-Land Cruise)
Most Han River cruises depart from the Yeouido Ferry Terminal and are operated by E-Land Cruise. The main differences come down to the time of day and the onboard experience. Let’s break it down so you can see which one fits your vibe.
The Han River Cruise Comparison Table
Our Experience: A Deep-Dive into the Starlight Music Cruise
We opted for the 70-minute Starlight Music Cruise because we wanted the full “Seoul at night” experience without committing to a full dinner. Here’s how it went down, step-by-step.
The Boarding Process & Finding a Good Spot
We booked our tickets online via Klook (highly recommended to get a discount and guarantee a spot) and exchanged our voucher for physical tickets at the Yeouido terminal. Pro Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early. Boarding starts about 10-15 minutes before departure, and the best seats on the outdoor deck get snatched up fast. Head straight to the top deck and grab a spot along the railing for unobstructed views.
The Vibe, the Music, and the Views
As the ferry pulled away from the dock, a live band started playing a mix of light jazz and popular ballads. It was surprisingly good and set a perfect, relaxed mood. For the next 70 minutes, we floated past Seoul’s iconic landmarks: the softly glowing 63 Building, the National Assembly Building lit up like a monument, and the endless strings of car lights on the bridges.
The absolute highlight is the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain show. Seeing the water jets dance and light up in a rainbow of colors from the perspective of the river is genuinely magical. It’s the moment that makes the entire trip feel worth it.
What About the Dinner Cruise? Is the Buffet Any Good?
While we didn’t do the dinner cruise ourselves, we spoke to a couple who did. Their feedback was that the food was “good, not great.” It’s a standard hotel-style buffet with a mix of Korean and Western dishes, salads, and desserts. Their advice? Book the dinner cruise for the convenience and the romantic atmosphere of dining on the water, but don’t expect a gourmet, Michelin-star meal. The main course is the view.
How to Book Your Tickets (and Get a Discount)
Booking in advance is essential, especially on weekends.
- Use a Third-Party Platform: Websites like Klook or Trazy almost always have tickets for a lower price than booking directly. You can often find deals for 10-20% off.
- Choose Your Date & Time: Select the cruise type you decided on from our table above.
- Receive Your Voucher: You’ll get an email voucher.
- Redeem at the Terminal: Go to the E-Land Cruise ticket booth at Yeouido Terminal, show your voucher, and get your physical tickets. Remember to bring your passport!
The Final Verdict: So, Is the Han River Cruise Worth It?
Yes, but with a condition: Choose the right cruise for you and manage your expectations.
- It’s Worth It If: You’re a first-time visitor to Seoul, a couple looking for a romantic and relatively affordable date night, or a photographer wanting unique cityscapes. The Starlight Music Cruise offers fantastic value for the experience.
- You Might Want to Skip It If: You’re on a super tight budget, you hate crowds, or you’re expecting a wild party boat. This is a calm, scenic experience. For the price of the dinner cruise, you could have a truly exceptional meal on land.
For us, the Starlight Cruise was a 10/10 highlight of our time in Seoul. It was the perfect way to see the city from a new perspective without breaking the bank.
(FAQ Section)
Q1: How do I get to the Yeouido Ferry Terminal?
- The easiest way is by subway. Go to Yeouinaru Station (Seoul Subway Line 5) and take Exit 3. It’s about a 5-7 minute walk from there.
Q2: What should I wear?
- Dress in layers! Even on a warm day, it can get very windy and cool on the river at night. A light jacket or sweater is a must.
Q3: Are there snacks and drinks on board?
- Yes, there’s a small convenience store on the lower deck selling drinks, beer, and light snacks like shrimp crackers. You are also allowed to bring your own.
Q4: Is the cruise suitable for children?
- Absolutely. The Sunset and Starlight cruises are family-friendly. Children love the open space and the lights.
Hi, I’m [jeybee]. As a long-time resident of Seoul, I’m passionate about uncovering the authentic, everyday magic of Korea. This blog is my way of sharing my favorite spots, tips, and cultural insights with you, beyond the usual tourist traps.
