The iconic Gloriana, a magnificent royal rowing barge steeped in history and tradition, has made a triumphant return to the picturesque St Katharine Docks, London. With its grand presence and regal aura, the Gloriana stands as a tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, commissioned for her Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
Lord Sterling of Plaistow, the visionary behind this noble project, and his team created this masterpiece, which captures the essence of British maritime heritage in only five months. The Queen herself bestowed the name 'Gloriana' upon this majestic vessel in memory of the name given by 16th-century poet Edmund Spenser to a character representing Queen Elizabeth I.
Measuring 84 feet long and propelled by a team of 18 expert oarsmen alongside two electric engines, the Gloriana is a marvel of craftsmanship and elegance. The design, a nod to Canaletto's paintings of the 18th-century London barges, showcases intricate details and fine artistry in every aspect.
A dedicated team, including naval architects Stuart Roy and Ed Burnett, project manager Damian Byrne MVO, and master-builder Mark Edwards MBE, poured their expertise into constructing the Gloriana using traditional methods. From the flooring sourced from sweet chestnut trees on King Charles's estate to the ornate carvings hand-finished in 23.5-carat gold leaf and fine painting, every element exudes a touch of royal splendour.
Not to be overlooked are the meticulously crafted oars, the pride of the Gloriana's fleet, skilfully made by Windsor's own J Sutton Blades, a renowned firm with a legacy in crafting oars dating back to the 1970s.
As the Gloriana graces the tranquil waters of St Katharine Docks once more, it serves as a symbol of unwavering reverence and admiration for the royal legacy it represents. A true gem of London's maritime history, the Gloriana continues to captivate all who behold its grandeur.