Queen's party sets sail down River Thames

Despite the cool, drizzly weather, spirits were bright in Britain, as the celebration marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth, who is marking 60 years on the throne, kicked into high gear.

Among the highly-anticipated events going on in the next four days including street parties, outdoor concerts and finally the traditional appearance of an elderly great-grandmother on her balcony waving to her subjects -- was Sunday's motley but majestic flotilla tribute.

AP Photo/Lewis Whyld, PA

More than a 1,000 boats sailed down the River Thames including the luxurious Royal Barge. It was a tribute fit for a Queen, and one that organizers are calling the biggest pageant on the river for 350 years.

AP Photo/Tim Hales

The Gloriana was seen leading the flotilla. 

AP Photo/Dylan Martinez, Pool

Watching the proceeding from the Royal Barge were Britain's Kate Duchess of Cambridge, 2nd left, stands next to Prince Harry, left Prince William, 3rd left, and Queen Elizabeth.

AP Photo /John Stillwell/pool

Thousands of people, watched the pageantry unfold from all angles along the River Thames. The pageant was a nod to Britain's maritime heritage and one of the biggest events on the river for centuries. 

TODAY'S MUSE

You can stand tall without standing on someone. You can be a victor without having victims -- Harriet Woods