Each Valentine’s Day since 1996 the world renowned Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony has become one of Thailand’s most unusual annual events.  The 2009 event promises to be more popular than ever and is expected to eclipse the existing Guinness Book World Record for underwater weddings, already held for the same event in 2000.

The 2009 undersea ceremony, held from February 13-15, also promises to add a new twist as same-sex couples are also being welcomed to take part.  Gay and lesbian couples will not however be receiving an official marriage certificate since same-sex marriage is still not allowed under Thai law.

Trang, famous as a tropical honeymoon destination, is located about 300 kilometers south of the more heavily touristed Phuket Island.  Trang is best known for its laid-back lifestyle, white beaches, clear seas, and the pristine Adaman Islands.

The coming event will take place over 3 days and will include welcoming festivities and a mainland parade before participants head over to Pak Meng beach for the wedding ceremonies.  Underwater participants will be required to have diver certification but there is also a beachside ceremony offered to those who are less aquatically inclined.

The ceremony will include lavishly decorated long-tailed boats in an adaptation of the colorful Thai Traditional wedding parade (called Khan Maak procession).  Couples will dive to about 15 meters and on the white sand bottom they will meet a district official who will witness and approve their marriage certificate and certificates of love.

All prospective newly-weds and those who want to renew their marriage vow are invited to contact Trang Chamber of Commerce for an application and registration information.

Date: February 13-15, 2009

Venue: Pak Meng Beach, Trang Province, Thailand

For more information please contact:
Trang Chamber of Commerce
188 Kantang Road, Aumphur Muang,
Trang, Thailand 92000
Tel:  +667 521 0238
Fax: +667 521 1380

Or visit the Official site at www.underwaterwedding.com/

By Suttira Kaewthep