The National Museum of Royal Barges in Bangkok is a former royal shipyard that was converted into a national museum in 1974. Located directly on the Bangkok Noi Canal, it houses a collection of the finest royal barges—masterpieces of traditional Thai craftsmanship. These centuries-old, perfectly preserved barges are still used today for the Royal Barge Processions, which mark important royal events. The last two took place in September 2019 and October 2024. Don't expect a huge collection; the museum primarily displays four royal barges: the Royal Barge Suphannahong, the Royal Barge Narai Song Suban, the Royal Barge Anantanakarat of King Rama IX, and the Royal Barge Anekchat Phuchong, which are presented through pantomime. These are historical masterpieces.

The Royal Barge Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except New Year's Day and Songkran). However, please note that the water level is dependent on the tides and the museum may be closed at low tide. Therefore, I recommend visiting in the afternoon (after 2:00 PM).

Visitors generally reach the Royal Boat Museum in Bangkok by boat on the Chao Phraya River. However, it can also be reached on foot via the Arun Amarin or Phra Pinklao Bridges on the Thonburi side. In any case, you should definitely take some time for a stroll around the museum. The area, with its small, village-like alleyways, is exotic and charming! Take the opportunity to visit the temples Wat Dusidaram Worawihan and Wat Phumarin Ratchapaksi. If you are on foot, the museum's pier can also be the starting point for a longtail boat tour on Bangkok's klongs, the canals (see information near the entrance or ask the ticket seller).

How to get there

How do you get to the National Museum of Royal Barges? Normally, you reach the museum in Bangkok by boat on the Chao Phraya River. However, you can also reach it on foot via the Arun Amarin or Phra Pinklao Bridge on the Thonburi side. In any case, you should definitely take the time to stroll around the museum. The area, with its small, village-like alleyways, is exotic and charming! Take the opportunity to visit the temples Wat Dusidaram Worawihan and Wat Phumarin Ratchapaksi. If you are coming on foot, the museum's pier is also the starting point for a longtail boat tour on Bangkok's klongs, the canals (see information near the entrance or ask the ticket seller).