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1:15pm, Thu 19 Apr 2012 Jubilee barge takes to the water

Inside Gloriana's workshop

Last updated Thu 19 Apr 2012

Later today, the royal row barge 'Gloriana', will be placed in the water the first time.

It will lead the flotilla of boats during the Diamond Jubilee river pageant, ahead of the Queen's boat the 'Spirit of Chartwell'.

Specialist craftsmen have spent the last 18 weeks creating the vessel in a secret location.

Craftsmen work on the boat. — The barge has been ornately carved. Credit: Hare & Humphreys

Patterns are painted onto the oars. — 18 oarsmen will power the vessel down the Thames. Credit: Hare & Humphreys

Patterns are painted onto the oars. — Each oar has been painted by hand. Credit: Hare & Humphreys

Craftsmen apply gold leaf. — The row barge is the only boat to be made from scratch for the river pageant. Credit: Hare & Humphreys

Craftsmen apply gold leaf. — Craftsmen apply gold leaf. Credit: Hare & Humphreys

Jubilee barge takes to the water

A spectacular royal row barge, created specially for the Diamond Jubilee, has been launched on the River Thames.