The Royal Thai Navy has launched the Royal Barge Suphannahong into the Chao Phraya River in preparation for the Royal Barge Procession accompanying His Majesty the King's Royal Kathin Ceremony on November 6. The procession is also being held on the auspicious occasion of the royal celebration of Her Majesty the Queen's fourth cycle, or 48th birthday, on June 3.

Following traditional ceremonies honoring the vessel's guardian spirit and sacred deities, the Suphannahong departed the National Museum of Royal Barges and traveled about one kilometer to Dock No. 1 at the Thonburi Naval Dockyard. Three more royal barges will be launched through Aug. 8 before full on-water rehearsals begin.

The Suphannahong, which dates to the Ayutthaya period, was constructed during the reign of King Rama V and completed during the reign of King Rama VI. The 44.9-meter ceremonial barge is distinguished by its gilded swan figurehead and received the World Ship Trust Heritage Award in 1992 in recognition of its historical and cultural value.

The Royal Thai Navy said restoration of the royal barges has been completed, and training has advanced to on-water practice. The Royal Barge Procession will feature 52 royal barges and 2,200 personnel, with rehearsals scheduled from Aug. 17 through Oct. 28 ahead of the Royal Kathin Ceremony.