Ten Rehearsals Set for Chao Phraya River Ahead of November Ceremony
The first of ten rehearsals for Thailand's 2026 Royal Barge Procession will take place on Monday, August 17, launching a series of practice runs on the Chao Phraya River ahead of the royal ceremony on November 6. Further minor rehearsals are scheduled for August 20 and 27, then September 3, 8, 17 and 23, and October 2, 8 and 15, followed by two full-dress rehearsals on October 21 and 28. The procession forms part of His Majesty the King's journey to present royal Kathin robes at Wat Arun Ratchawararam, marking the celebrations of the fourth-cycle birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.
The Royal Thai Navy will deploy 52 ceremonial vessels and 2,200 personnel for the full procession, arranged in a formation 1,200 metres long and 90 metres wide across five lines. The central line includes the principal Royal Barge Suphannahong along with reserve barges, drum barges and the barge carrying the royal Kathin robes, flanked by two inner lines of battle and figurehead barges and two outer lines of protective vessels. Members of the public and tourists can watch rehearsals for free from both banks of the river between Krung Thon Bridge and Wat Arun Ratchawararam, with training sessions beginning at about 2.30pm.
Marine Department Sets Temporary Navigation Restrictions
The Marine Department has announced temporary navigation controls for the August 17, 20 and 27 rehearsals and is advising river users to plan journeys around the restricted sections in advance. On the Chao Phraya River between Krung Thon Bridge and Phra Pok Klao Bridge, sea-going vessels, cargo vessels and vessels carrying hazardous goods must avoid the route from 9am, while all vessels must clear the area from 12.30pm until each rehearsal concludes. On the Bangkok Noi Canal, from its mouth to Wat Suwannaram Ratchaworawihan, all vessels are barred from passing from 12.30pm until the rehearsal finishes.
Authorities have warned that violators face fines of between 500 and 5,000 baht, and boat operators risk having their operating certificates seized for up to six months. The Royal Thai Navy's preparations this year cover personnel training, oarsmen's rehearsals, maintenance of the ceremonial vessels and preparation of piers along the procession route.
