Royal Barge Procession Draws Thousands as Oarsmen Prepare for Ceremony

Bangkok: The Royal Barge Procession, a grand and historic spectacle, is set to commence with oarsmen taking their positions on the iconic vessels. Officials have meticulously prepared for the event, with spectators filling all available seats and others watching via an LED screen broadcasting live coverage of the procession.

According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere at the viewing point is at full capacity, accommodating 4,000 seats. Officials have engaged the public with informative lectures about the royal barges, detailing the significance of each of the 52 boats arranged in a 5-row procession. The public is encouraged to capture photos of the event while remaining seated to maintain order as the barges move.

Preparations began well before the 3:00 p.m. start time, with 1,000 oarsmen boarding various boats, including the Saeng and Dang boats and animal-shaped vessels, to set up the procession. The event will feature the passage of four distinguished royal barges: the Anekchatphuchong, Anantanakarat,
Narai Song Suban King Rama IX, and Suphannahong, each holding significant importance in today’s ceremony.