28.09.2022
Reflections flotilla: an unforgettable evening
Reflections took place on 24 September 2022 and was a tribute by the river communities, marking the passing of Her Majesty The Queen and the accession of King Charles III.
Over 150 boats, illuminated with white lights, proceeded along the River Thames from Chelsea to Tower Bridge.
Chris Livett, the King’s Barge Master and chair of the organising committee, who had the idea for the event over a year ago, said: “I want to thank all participants for their energy and effort, which made the evening such a success. “The support of the Company of Watermen & Lightermen, the Corporation of London, the Gloriana Trust, llluminated River, PLA, Royal Navy, Rothschild Foundation, Thames Alive, the Thames Festival Trust and Thames Luxury Charters was also invaluable. “Together, we have delivered a truly unforgettable evening, marking the end of an era and the start of a new one. “On top of this, the event has so far raised over £25,000 to help build the RNLI’s new Tower station.”
Robin Mortimer, PLA chief executive, said: “In all the Thames’ long history, rarely has the river seen such a spectacular and emotional event. “My congratulations go to the organisers for their many months of painstaking preparation, which started originally as a Platinum Jubilee tribute to Her Majesty. “I also want to thank the PLA harbour master team, led by Darren Knight, and other emergency services, who, as ever, worked quietly behind the scenes on the night, to make sure everything went according to plan.”
The event trended on social media too. The AHOY Centre Charity, tweeted: “Being part of last night’s Reflections flotilla was a moment for all to remember.”
The Marine Police Service also posted, describing the event as “a fitting tribute to The Queen’s lifelong service to the nation.”
Another spectator in the crowds that thronged the river’s banks said: “What a magnificent view! Jewels on water! Gloriana was breathtakingly beautiful. As her golden wings approached, it looked like she was flying on water.”
 Gloriana, the Royal Row Barge |
 The flotilla departing Albert Bridge |
 Westminster Bridge |
 The flotilla with Millenium Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge |
 Cannon Street rail bridge |
 Crowds on London Bridge |
 Tower Bridge opens specially as the flotilla passes through |
 A flotilla participant has 'ER' in lights |
 Gloriana after passing through Tower Bridge |
 Sea cadets on HMS Belfast |
 Photo by Thames RIB Experience |
 Adrian Evans and Alison Gowman |
 Doggett's Coat and Badge winners at Chelsea |
 PLA employee, Odina Ifeoma with Gloriana |
 RNLI team on board the Duke of Edinburgh |
 Butlers Wharf crowds - Photo by Milo Robinson, Totally Thames Festival |
 Photo by Milo Robinson, Totally Thames Festival |
 Photo by Milo Robinson, Totally Thames Festival |
