Fancy mixing up your normal staycation and staying somewhere unique rather than a hotel? Boat hotels are seriously giving the standard hotel rooms a run for their money. From spacious rooms with views of the water, glorious decking to unwind with a glass of fizz and even hot tubs and roll-top baths on board. Staying on a boat has never been so stylish and easy, so climb on board and see where you should be floating away to next.
Floatel Cabins
Floatel by name, Floatel by nature. These cabins do exactly what they say and offer luxury floating havens for two on the Welsh waterfront. Onboard the cabins are stylishly furnished, with a cosy double bed, unless you’ve chosen the twin cabin. The bedrooms face the furnished deck that sits on the water’s edge, making it the perfect place to wake up. You will have a wonderful view of the passing boats and charming town that you will want to spend all your time resting by the water. The cabins don’t have a kitchen onsite but with an abundance of cafes, restaurants and shops all within walking distance, you will be spoil for choice of eating out during your stay.
Blackbird
If you fancy some luxury on an idyllic lake, Blackbird in North Devon is the perfect place to retreat too. This elegant houseboat is a romantic floating suite with waterside views out every window. Expect style in every room as you are treated to the most gorgeous features and interiors. The bathhouse onshore comes with a fabulous roll top bath that will make you think you are staying in a luxurious hotel. It’s been beautifully restored for a soothing and distraction-free break and as no children or pets are allowed, it makes for the perfect romantic weekend away for two. Outside you are treated to awe-inspiring views of the countryside and lake that hugs the boat. There is a secluded al fresco dining spot where you can spend your evenings with the barbeque and sipping away on a drink too.
Fingal
Fingal is a luxury floating boat hotel that is permanently berthed on Edinburgh’s vibrant waterfront, making it the perfect place to stay for an escape to the city. They describe themselves as a “hotel with all the glamour and style of a superyacht but with an old-world elegance that is completely unique.” They have different cabins onboard starting at a classic cabin with King sized bed and rain shower. Why not splash out on a classic or luxury duplex which is set across 2 floors and comes with an upstairs living space. For a real night of living like royalty, choose their Skerryvore suite which has its own private deck, freestanding bath and all the other luxury touches you would expect. The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar has a relaxed, luxurious feel and floor to ceiling windows that serves breakfast, Afternoon Tea, dinner and some spectacular cocktails.
Star Narrowboat Holiday
If you are wanting a holiday onboard a boat to explore the tranquil waterways, then Star Narrowboat Holidays are for you. Set in Cheshire, these unforgettable narrowboat escapes await you to climb on board and pick between the wonderful Woodstock and Queenie for your next adventure. Both the boats come fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and practical stay. They have been furnished to bring real touches of home to your waterway holiday too. Woodstock can sleep up to 4 adults, whereas Queenie is perfect just for 2, so whether you want a trip with friends or family or a retreat for 2, Star Narrowboat Holiday are sure to find the boat for you. Best of all they are also dog friendly.
The Boathouse London
The Boathouse is based on the Floating Pocket Park in Paddington, London. The design of the boat is chic, simple, and luxurious. The walls are adorned with fabulous black and white photos of celebrities. Textured wood on the walls helps creates warmth on the boat, and green luscious plants fill every room. The Boathouse has one bedroom but they can accommodate up to 4 guests by turning the sofa into a cosy bed for 2. In the bathroom is an amazing freestanding bath for that added luxury touch too. Head to the top of the boat to relax in style on one of the many chairs or make use of the bikes and explore the city in style.
For more information, read our full review of The Boathouse here.
Highland Lassie
Explore the very best of Scotland in style, on board the Highland Lassie. Surrounded by charming Scottish countryside, it’s within easy reach of some of the Highland’s most famous sights and landmarks. They offer the choice of cabins on the upper deck that boast panoramic views or cosy below deck cabins that have views along the canal towpath. Onboard they have their Oakwood Restaurant which offers a range of dining options. Enjoy authentic Scottish breakfasts, light lunches and dinners around the Captain’s table or take in the scenery and dine alfresco on the jetty.
The Harpy
This historic London floating home has picture-perfect postcard views of Tower Bridge. The Harpy is like no houseboat you’ve ever seen and this is definitely one for a truly memorable stay. The boat has 4 beautifully furnished cabins and the Master Cabin comes with a gorgeous four-poster bed and an ensuite. The main living, dining, and kitchen area sits on the upper deck so you can take in the sights of London while relaxing or dining. This area is surrounded by external decks so you can sip on a drink while admiring the view. If you are wanting a stay in the city with plenty of WOW factors and luxury, then grab your friends and family and book a stay at The Harpy.
The Lady of the Twizzle
This salvaged, wartime barge rests in an exclusive Essex marina and comes with a bubbling outdoor hot tub and luxury interiors. The Lady of the Twizzle has two family suites which come with a super king bed, a double bed and a drop-down single bunk. There are also 2 king-size cabins with feature beds too. Each cabin and suite has its own large bathroom too making sure everyone has their own space and privacy onboard. Head on top to the beautiful deck which has a mix of chic seating areas and sun loungers. The best feature has to be the six-person hot tub where you can soak the day away and take in the glorious scenery that frames the boat.
For more fun and unique places to stay, check out our guide to the best glamping holidays here.
