Father of the Royal Thai Navy, was the title given to Prince Apakorn for his numerous achievements and advances in the navy. Born on the 19th of December 1880, Prince Apakorn helped to modernize and instruct the Royal Thai Navy. Nearby Prasae Frigate Memorial in Rayong, you will find a shrine dedicated to the prince.

The prince died from the flu on the 19th of May 1923 in Sairee, Chumphon province, Thailand. The prince was 43 years old. This shrine is only one of the 217 that have been built to honor and pay tribute to the prince. Sailors of the Thai navy revere the prince and travel every once in a while to pay their respects to any of the memorial shrines around Thailand.

The shrine is situated alongside the Prasae River. The name of the memorial shrines is Sarn Klommaluang Chumphon, named after the prince. This particular shrine has a cruciform shape. Just outside the shrine are two sailor statues and two cannons that guard the entrance. A candle holder and joss stick holder are also located just outside the entrance to the shrine for visitors to pray, worship, and ask for luck.

Inside the shrine is a metal statue of the Prince standing, and picture frames with motivational stories. Offerings to the shrine include red roses, a garland of jasmine flowers, palm toddy (his favorite drink), alcohol, cigarettes, fruits, and Thai food. Please note that it is considered bad luck to place the garland around the statue or to offer ‘panang’, a peanut based curry.  

The shrine is not a major attraction in the area, but it is one that is close by to the Prasae Frigate Memorial. If you’re not interested in praying, just come over to relax and chill under the shade by the Prasae River. If you want to take on a challenge, visit and document the differences between all 217 memorials.

Address : Moo 3, Pak Nam Prasae Sub-district, Klaeng District, Rayong

GPS : N12 43 1.14, E101 42 12.78

Opening Hours : 07.00 – 18.00

Best Time : Any time of the year

Activities : Worship/ Pray

CAR:
Drive along Sukhumvit Rd. towards Chanthaburi province until you reach the 278th kilometer road marker.
Turn right on Prasae Intersection and continue straight before turning right into Tetsaban 1 Rd.
Notice the petrol station. Drive until you reach a T-junction and then turn right.
Cross the bridge and you will see the shrine to your left.