About HTMS Chumphon
HTMS Chumphon is a preserved Royal Thai Navy torpedo boat displayed on land at Hat Sai Ri in Mueang Chumphon District, Chumphon Province, adjacent to the Prince of Chumphon Shrine. Built in Italy and commissioned in 1938, it served in the Franco-Thai War and World War II before decommissioning in 1975. The vessel is notable as the only preserved ship of its class in Thailand and a memorial to the founding of the modern Thai navy.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an outdoor, land-mounted display of the 68-meter torpedo boat near Sai Ri Beach within the landscaped grounds of the Prince of Chumphon Shrine. Visitors can walk around and board the deck to view original guns, torpedo tubes, bridge and superstructure, with interpretive panels explaining its service history. The setting includes shrine buildings, statues, sea views and open grounds overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
Key highlights
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Historic 1930s Italian-built torpedo boat preserved as a museum ship
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Only surviving vessel of its class in Thailand
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Original armament including guns and torpedo tubes on display
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Located within the revered Prince of Chumphon Shrine complex
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Seaside location at Hat Sai Ri Beach with panoramic coastal views
History of HTMS Chumphon
Built by Cantieri Riuniti dell'Adriatico in Monfalcone, Italy, launched in 1937 and commissioned into the Royal Thai Navy in 1938 as part of a class of nine torpedo boats. Served during the Franco-Thai War (1940-1941) and World War II for coastal patrol duties. Decommissioned in 1975 after nearly 40 years of service and preserved on shore at Hat Sai Ri as a memorial ship.
Culture & Context
Displayed as part of the Prince of Chumphon Shrine complex dedicated to Admiral Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, regarded as the Father of the Royal Thai Navy. The site is a place of respect for naval personnel and visitors who pay homage to the Prince, with the ship serving as a tangible symbol of Thai naval heritage.
Route
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