The Kalizma yacht, River Thames 1968

A 1960s colour photo of the luxury motor yacht ‘Kalizma’ moored on the River Thames in 1968, with the historic White Tower of the Tower of London visible in the background. The elegant white vessel features a classic raked bow, multiple portholes, and a timber-accented bridge deck, with laundry visible drying on the forward railing. Purchased in 1967 by Richard Burton as a gift for Elizabeth Taylor, the yacht served as a floating sanctuary for the famous couple during their time in London. The scene captures the vessel against the backdrop of the city’s historic waterfront and the lush trees surrounding the Tower grounds during the latter half of the 20th century.

Today, the Kalizma still survives and continues to sail as one of the world’s most famous classic motor yachts. While it has undergone several extensive refits that have altered its appearance since 1968, including modernized deck structures and updated interiors, it retains its historic pedigree as a 1906-built steam yacht converted to diesel. The Tower of London remains a preserved UNESCO World Heritage site, though the scaffolding seen on its turrets in this 1968 image has long since been removed, and the surrounding Wharf area has been updated for modern tourism.