Gloriana (barge)

The project to build Gloriana was initiated by Lord Sterling of Plaistow, who gained the idea for a waterborne tribute to the Queen for her Diamond Jubilee from her eldest son, Charles, Prince of Wales.

[2] The barge is built of wood using traditional methods and includes flooring from sweet chestnut trees from Prince Charles's estate.

[2] The sculpture and ornate carvings were made by Polygon Scenery and finished in gold leaf and fine hand painting by Hare & Humphreys.

[2] She led members of the Royal Family other than the Queen and her husband Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, who were aboard the 210-foot-long (64 m) MV Spirit of Chartwell, a motorised barge.

Gold Medal rower Sophie Hosking and Silver Medallist Rob Williams were aboard Gloriana.

She passed under Richmond Bridge before mooring opposite the finish, below Ham House, in time to greet the winner of London's 25th River Marathon.

The royal barge Gloriana
Gloriana illuminated as part of the Reflections flotilla in September 2022 [ 1 ]
Gloriana at Henley Royal Regatta in 2012
Gloriana at Bray Lock , 23 July 2015. In order to travel along the non-tidal areas of the River Thames, Gloriana is fitted with inboard motors connected to the wheel and rudder. Her oars are stowed on deck when not in use.