You may be thinking, “what is a boatel?” but it’s simple really, it’s a boat/ship that has been transformed into a hotel, a bit like a cruise ship only you don’t have to worry about getting your feet wet! Boatels are sometimes called flotels or floating hotels. The ships don’t move and have been permanently anchored in a fixed location; here are some of the best boatels in the world:
1. The Queen Mary Ocean Liner
Probably the grandest and most luxurious boatel in the entire world. This retired luxury Ocean liner is now one of the best boatel in the world. In fact, it is probably The best floating hotel in the world. The liner has a classic design with vertically mounted huge funnels giving it the vintage look similar to that on the Titanic. Inside the ship hasn’t changed much, they have kept the nostalgia and made it look “classic” retaining the art-decor decor and 1930s artwork as well as the bronze mechanics and wooden walkways and red carpets everywhere. You’ll feel like a wealthy passenger on a transatlantic journey. Onboard are many luxurious amenities and everything is top quality. Apparently this ship is haunted by the ghost of a young mechanic called John Pedder who was crushed by a watertight door during a fire drill. Spooky. The Queen Mary Hotel is permanently docked in Long Island, California.
2. Sunborn Floating Hotel London
The Sunborn Floating Hotel in London offers a truly unique and luxurious accommodation experience. Permanently docked on the Royal Victoria Dock, this exclusive hotel is a floating masterpiece that combines nautical elegance with modern sophistication. The Sunborn features stunning panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape and the River Thames. Each room is tastefully designed, providing guests with a blend of comfort and style. With its world-class amenities, including a fine dining restaurant, a chic lounge, and a spacious sundeck, the Sunborn Floating Hotel redefines the concept of luxury hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a memorable stay in London, the Sunborn offers an unparalleled experience, allowing guests to indulge in the tranquility of the water while being just moments away from the vibrant city life.3. SS Yankee Ferry
Built way back in 1907, this old ship has been fully restored to cater to guests, a lot fewer guests than the original 800 which it ferried to Ellis Island. The vessel transported newly arrived immigrants to Ellis Island and has even served in both world wars. Now it is one of the most famous floating hotels in the world. It’s really rustic inside with boxes and knick-knacks on the walls giving the proper old-time feeling. The rooms are interesting and jammed packed with random stuff, but not in a bad way. Even though everything is random it is considered one of teh best floating hotels. It just works and adds to the experience. The Yanky Ferry was docked in Hoboken for years but in mid-2013 was moved to Henry Street Pier, in Gowanus Bay Terminal, Red Hook, Brooklyn.
4. Lilla Marras Lifeboat Floating Hotels
How about staying in a lifeboat that worked up and down the British coastline? Something different right? Well, you can on the Lilla Marras, it’s really cramped inside and really rugged, but that’s the whole point, its awesome and one of teh world’s best floating hotels. If you like being different then you would love to stay in this hotel located in Harlingen, Netherlands. The ship was in service from 1966 to 1979 and saved over 45 lives! Everything on board is really nice and the professionally crafted, the space has been converted into a boutique hotel to make overnight stays equal to the most luxurious designer properties.
5. Hotel hph Living
OK, this one doesn’t really look the part but has some crazy reviews and is one of the best floating hotels; it is like staying in a 5* hotel. Located in Copenhagen, Denmark this little beauty is one not to miss. The rooms are spacious and the view is astonishing, you even get a free coffee! The rooms are very clean and very modern, a bit like an Ikea room if you know what I mean. I’m not kidding, I would stay here just for the view, it is amazing!
Would you stay in a flotel/ boatel? I know I would its different, and quirky and I bet it would be loads of fun. Here you can read about other weird hotels, actually capsule hotels.
Author Bio: Written by Jared Lecouteur, travel blogger.
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Very good article. I definitely appreciate this site. Thanks!
Wouldn’t it make you sea sick staying on one of these?