Sunborn London Yacht Hotel

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel Overview

First Impressions

You know what caught me off guard about Sunborn London Yacht Hotel? It’s actually a floating hotel — and I mean properly floating, not just some nautical-themed gimmick. Moored at Royal Victoria Dock in London, this four-star converted superyacht feels like something you’d stumble across in Monaco, except you’re looking out at the city’s financial district instead of the French Riviera. The whole experience starts the moment you walk up the gangway, honestly — there’s this immediate sense that you’re about to sleep somewhere completely different from your typical London hotel.

The Floating Experience

I’ll be straight with you — the novelty doesn’t wear off. Your room gently rocks (barely noticeable, but it’s there), and the windows offer these sweeping water views that change throughout the day. The yacht’s original design has been cleverly adapted into hotel spaces, so you get all these interesting curved walls and porthole-style windows that remind you you’re on a boat. What surprised me most was how quiet it actually is — you’d think being on water near Canary Wharf would mean noise, but the dock area is surprisingly peaceful, especially in the evenings.

Location and Getting Around

Royal Victoria Dock isn’t exactly central London, but that’s sort of the point. You’re in this regenerated area of East London that feels modern and spacious — a nice break from the cramped streets elsewhere. The DLR (Docklands Light Railway) connects you to Canary Wharf in about 10 minutes, and you can reach central London in roughly 30 minutes. I actually enjoyed the short journey each day; it gave me time to decompress. Plus, couples seem to love the location — the feedback I’ve seen consistently rates it around 9.2 for romantic trips, which makes sense given those sunset views over the water.

Comfort and Amenities

The beds here are genuinely excellent — I mean, properly comfortable in a way that makes you want to hit snooze multiple times. The restaurant serves decent food with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the dock, though I’d say the setting is more impressive than the cuisine itself. Breakfast is buffet-style, which works well enough, especially when you can sit by those massive windows watching the morning light hit the water. The whole yacht has been fitted with modern amenities, so you’re not roughing it — there’s proper air conditioning, good WiFi, and all the usual hotel conveniences you’d expect.

Why Guests Love It

This place works because it offers something genuinely unique without sacrificing comfort. You get that “I’m staying somewhere special” feeling that’s hard to find in London’s sea of standard hotels. The staff seem to understand they’re running something a bit different and lean into it — they’re helpful without being overly formal. It’s perfect if you want to experience London from a fresh angle, literally and figuratively. Just don’t expect to stumble back here after a late night in Soho — the location requires a bit of planning, but honestly, that’s part of what makes it feel like a proper escape.

Savvy travelers reserve a hotel in London before Chelsea Flower Show turns squares into pop-up gardens.

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Sunborn London Yacht Hotel

• Aivaras from Lithuania (9/10)

  Amazing hotel, cozy, clean, etc.

• Caunce from United Kingdom (7/10)

  Location for excel was great , clean and tidy, bed was super comfortable.

• Tarun from United Kingdom (8/10)

  I was upgraded to a suite from a standard room. The suite was furnished to a very high standard and was comfortable. Unfortunately, I could not have breakfast due to lack of time.

• Diane from United Kingdom (8/10)

  In a great position for Excel. Room was really lovely and clean and staff very friendly.

• Emma from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Something different to a normal hotel, impressive entrance and nice room. Felt special on arrival and staff very friendly.

• Patrick from United Kingdom (8/10)

  The room was very spacious and clean.
  I like the historical design
  The water temperature was good.
  The location and thoughts of been on a Yatch despite it was static.

• Sally from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Lovely big room with small balcony. Nice and clean. Friendly, professional staff.

• Christiana from United Kingdom (8/10)

  fantastic location. the hotel is clean. the breakfast was great.

• Marco from United Kingdom (9/10)

• Andres from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Reception staff amazing, rooms and facilities amazing

Surroundings

Facilities