King Taksin Shipyard (Samet Ngam Shipyard) is located in Village 10, Ban Samet Ngam, Nong Bua Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chanthaburi Province, approximately 11 kilometers from the city center. This historically significant site is believed to have been used by King Taksin the Great as a naval shipyard to prepare his fleet for the campaign to reclaim Thailand’s independence from Burma in 1767.

 

Archaeologists from the Underwater Archaeology Unit of the Fine Arts Department conducted excavations and surveys along the coastline and discovered several rectangular depressions resembling dry docks, along with various ancient ship components. These findings support the hypothesis that the area was indeed used as a shipyard in the past. The excavated ships are believed to be small Fujian-style Chinese junks used for cargo transport, featuring three masts and a rudder, measuring about 24 meters in length and 5 meters in width. Nearby, there are also replicas of traditional boats and vessels once used by local villagers, providing visitors with a tangible sense of historical maritime life.

 

Today, King Taksin Shipyard (Samet Ngam Shipyard) serves as both a historical and cultural tourism destination. Visitors can pay respects at the King Taksin the Great Memorial, which honors his legacy in restoring Thailand’s independence. A local museum on site displays artifacts, ancient ships, and the decommissioned Royal Thai Navy ship, HTMS Pho Sam Ton. The museum exhibits include information about the king’s biography, royal duties, shipbuilding technologies, and other historical relics, allowing visitors to understand the skills and challenges of ancient shipbuilding.

 

The site also features traditional junks discovered in the Gulf of Thailand and boats historically used by villagers for trade and transportation. Demonstrations and local product exhibitions are available, offering visitors insight into the local community’s heritage and craftsmanship.

 

Access to King Taksin Shipyard (Samet Ngam Shipyard) is straightforward. Visitors can follow the route to Ban Samet Ngam, passing Wat Samet Ngam, then turn right according to the signs to the shipyard, approximately one kilometer further.

 

King Taksin Shipyard (Samet Ngam Shipyard) is an important destination for those interested in Thai history, particularly King Taksin the Great’s naval campaigns. A visit provides not only a direct encounter with historical evidence but also a deeper appreciation for the courage and sacrifice of Thailand’s ancestors. The well-preserved museum, ship displays, and memorial contribute to both educational tourism and the preservation of local culture.

 

As a historical and cultural landmark in Chanthaburi Province, King Taksin Shipyard (Samet Ngam Shipyard) offers a comprehensive learning experience, combining history, maritime heritage, and local traditions. Visitors can enjoy the serene coastal surroundings while gaining a meaningful understanding of Thailand’s past, making it a highly recommended destination for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.