From almost every boat landing in Bangkok, there are cross-river ferries that play back and forth across the Chao Phraya River. The standard fare is two baht and usually collected at the entrance to the landing.
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Another popular boat in Thailand is called " Rua hang yao ". Some say the "Rua hang yao " originated in Thailand ; others say that it was first devised in Malaysia. Whatever the truth of the matter, it has undeniably become the leading form of transport on all Thai waterways. Rua hang yao literally means "long-tailed boat", and that is just what it is: a sleek craft of varying size having, in the rear, a propeller attached to the end of a long pole, powered by an often enormous engine. The propeller can be raised or lowered at will by the driver, and thus the boat can navigate not only in deep but also shallow water, a notable advantage in tidal canals and rice fields.
While obviously more modern than the more traditional paddle boats, the Rua hang yao is no less susceptible to supernatural forces. It, too, has a guardian spirit, known as Mae Ya Nang (Lady Grandmother), who lives in the prow and requires proper treatment in return for protection against misadventure. All drivers thus adorn the prows of their boats each morning with a garland of fragrant flowers and often burn a few sticks of incense as well. Should accidents or poor business persist, a more elaborate ceremony may be deemed necessary, sometimes including participation by a Buddhist monk.
Long-tailed boats are noisy, and the larger ones used as ferries along canals also make waves that rock old-fashioned craft and erode the banks. But these are regarded as minor drawbacks when set against the exhilaration of skimming along at top speed, spray rising on both sides, almost as well as a carnival ride.
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