Pageant on the Thames

Queen Elizabeth II

The second day of the Diamond Jubilee Celebration in London is the highlight of the celebration, dubbed "The Greatest Show on Earth" with the flotilla of around 1,000 boats cruising along the Thames River. The grandest and most royal of this boat is the Spirit of Chartwell, specially designed for The Queen. There were many representations from all parts of society and the world from the man-powered boats composed of rowers, from the military, former British Olympics medallists and also members of the Commonwealth, all joined in this flotilla. This pageant on the Thames River was reminiscent of the Regal river cruise during Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn's reign. It was never done since then. So this flotilla is a history in the making for the 21st Century. The best time to present it again is to celebrate The Queen's Diamond Jubilee which  just happened in London a few hours ago.It was a joyous celebration with  a steam train sounding its horn, the bells ringing, boats sounding their horns and people cheering despite the torrid rain which the British people especially The Queen, Prince Philip and members of Royal Family strongly stood ground for several hours. A great tribute of a nation to their great Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Duchess of Cornwall aboard the Royal Launch which was from the decommissioned  Royal Yacht Britannia.

The Queen aboard the Spirit of Chartwell passing through the Palace of Westminster.

The Royal Barge, Spirit of Chartwell passing through the Millennium Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral.

Several of the many man-powered boats that joined the over 1,000 flotilla of boats.

Almost near the Tower Bridge which is the end of the flotilla.

Canada is represented by Canada One canoe.

People braving the strong rain to celebrate.

The Queen with the Royal Family, mostly her direct heirs, Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry.

The Royal Trio - Prince Harry, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William.

The Gun Salute.

A Jubilant Queen celebrating her 60 years of reign.

Jubilant salute to The Queen at Tower Bridge.


For the story on the Thames River Pageant, check out the BBC and Diamond Jubilee River Pageant.



Photo sources: CBC, BBC and Hello Magazine UK.