BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Navy is preparing 2,200 personnel and 52 royal ceremonial barges for the Royal Barge Procession on November 6. The procession will accompany the royal journey to present Royal Kathin robes on the occasion of Her Majesty the Queen’s fourth cycle, or 48th birthday anniversary.
Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief Adm. Nares Wongtrakul inspected participating personnel on October 5 near Rama VIII Bridge before visiting royal barge oarsmen at the Thonburi Naval Dockyard. He called on all crews to prepare thoroughly and carry out their duties with discipline and precision during the royal ceremony.
The procession will stretch about 1,280 meters along the Chao Phraya River and span approximately 90 meters. The central formation will feature the Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban HM Rama IX, Anekkachatphuchong, and Anantanakkharat royal barges, accompanied by ceremonial, escort, and other vessels in a five-column formation.
Preparations include 10 sub-rehearsals and two full-dress rehearsals on October 21 and 28 ahead of the November 6 procession. The public can watch the rehearsals from both banks of the Chao Phraya River between Krung Thon Bridge and Wat Arun Ratchawararam. (NNT)
