The upcoming Olympics isn’t the only event that will see the whole of London celebrating in 2012 – the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, taking place this June, will mark the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s accession of the throne. Queen Elizabeth 2 became the monarch of the British Commonwealth in February 1952, however the UK Diamond Jubilee celebrations will be held to coincide with the Queen’s birthday on 4th June. This means that Londoners will be treated to a four-day bank holiday over the time of the Diamond Jubilee, and the celebrations will include everything from street parties to London park parties.
Of course, the highlight of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee will be the maritime parade on the Thames River – this will appeal not only to aluminium boat builders, but also to fans of all things nautical whether they are royalists or not. The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant will be held on June 3rd and will feature a flotilla of no less than one thousand vessels, ranging from tugs to tall ships.
Among the boats selected for the Thames Diamond Jubilee Flotilla are some of the UK’s best-known vessels, such as Boadicea, a vessel famed as Europe’s oldest operational sailing boat. The Diamond Jubilee Pageant will also boast an extensive selection of the following vessels:
• Cargo boats
• Dragon boats
• Fire boats
• Fishing boats
• Historic vessels
• Kayaks
• Lifeboats
• Rowing boats
• Tugs
• Yachts
Naturally, the crown jewel of this Diamond Jubilee procession will be the Royal barge carrying Queen Elizabeth 2 and other Royal family members. This vessel promises to be a dream come true for boat refit enthusiasts and casual sailors alike!
This Diamond Jubilee Pageant will be the largest flotilla seen on the Thames in over three centuries, and it’s expected that around one million spectators are expected to watch the parade. Be sure not to miss this exciting Diamond Jubilee celebration on London’s iconic waterway.