Bangkok:The Royal Thai Navy held a ceremony to honor the guardian spirits of 52 royal barges in preparation for the upcoming Royal Barge Procession. The event, aimed at ensuring good fortune and boosting morale among navy personnel, was led by Admiral Nares Wongtrakul, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, at 759 AM.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony took place at Dock No. 1, Thonburi Naval Dockyard, Royal Thai Navy Dockyard Department. Here, the 52 royal barges and animal-shaped vessels are moored, awaiting participation in the Royal Barge Procession. This procession is associated with the Royal Kathina Ceremony at Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchaworamahaviharn, commemorating the 4th cycle birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on June 3, 2026.
The homage to the guardian spirits is a long-standing tradition believed to ensure good fortune and safety during waterborne missions, especially the Royal Barge Procession. It is a significant royal ceremony that showcases Thailand's historical, artistic, cultural, and shipbuilding heritage. The event requires the coordinated efforts and meticulous craftsmanship of Royal Thai Navy personnel to successfully organize the procession.