We sent our writer, Rachel McAlley to spend a night onboard a super yacht and here’s what she thought. “It’s somewhere that I have wanted to stay for quite a while, and when the opportunity arose to visit Sunborn Yacht Hotel I took it with open arms.”
I was invited to review Sunborn, which is docked at Royal Victoria Dock in London, and is in a stunning waterfront location. It doesn’t get much better for sightseeing as the yacht is opposite the O2 Arena, where you can see the cable cars move above the arena. The ExCel is next to the yacht, and there are plenty of restaurants, visitor attractions, and places to check out around the vicinity of the hotel.
I walked towards Sunborn Yacht Hotel and was thrilled when I had to press a buzzer to enter the lift which took me and other guests to the Reception Deck. Once inside Sunborn I was transported back in time to when everything was luxurious and ladened in gold. And, the beautiful central sweeping staircase made a huge impression and was an instant wow factor.
The reception team checked me in, and the front of house manager kindly helped with my luggage. He escorted me to my cabin on Deck 4, which was a Yacht Executive Room, complete with private balcony overlooking the docks and the O2 Arena.
The Cabin
Firstly, the room featured beautiful ornate décor, with the wardrobe, desk & chair, tv cabinet, and bedside tables made from aged teak. Secondly, it was classic in design yet very luxurious, and styled with contemporary elements such as a bed throw, cushions and crisp white bed linen. Thirdly, the sofa was a great place to watch tv, the bed was extremely comfy, and the little extras were wonderful.
Moreover, the coffee table made of glass had a small plate of petit fours to welcome me, and bottled water, which was greatly appreciated after a day travelling.
Sunborn Yacht Hotel & The View
I unpacked my suitcase, poured a drink, and lounged on the balcony watching the world go by. It didn’t feel like I was in London as it was quiet and peaceful, and as far away from the hustle and bustle of central London as it could possibly be. I snapped plenty of photos on my phone, and I felt like I was on holiday. At this exact moment I didn’t want to be anywhere else in the world, as I had transported myself into a relaxing dreamland.
My phone disturbed my calm as I had set an alarm to remind me to prepare for dinner. And, boy-oh-boy am I glad that I did. My table was booked for 6pm as the restaurant had a large booking that evening. The staff expected it to be far busier than usual for a Tuesday night. I quickly changed into something more appropriate for dinner, strolled down the deck to ‘Lands End Restaurant’ and was taken to a table overlooking the docks. I couldn’t have been happier. Additionally, my mocktail arrived and I sat back and enjoyed the tranquil scenery.
Lands End Restaurant
The menu was packed with dishes, so I chose the Charcuterie Selection (£14.50) to start. It was served with a range of cured meats, pickles, tomato tapenade, bread, and mixed leaf salad. This was a delicious beginning to my dinner. The tomato tapenade was outstanding, and I told the Maître D’, as the chefs should know it was extremely moreish.
Main course options were vast, and I opted for Tagliatelle with Tomato Fondue (£24.50). This dish included Mediterranean vegetables, black olives, fresh basil and lots of parmesan. The portion size was incredible, it could easily have served two! There is something uniquely special about enjoying a simple bowl of pasta, especially when it’s packed with delicate flavours.
Now, at this point I must say that I was way too full for dessert. However, it was suggested that I have a sample of something sweet. So, I decided upon the Petit Fours (£6.50) selection, as I knew they would be good. And, to my surprise they were different to the Petit Fours in my room; the perfect ending to my meal.
Post dinner, I nipped below Deck 4 to the Sundown Bar. It was busy with guests, and visitors who were joining the large party in the restaurant. Amazingly, it was a hive of activity, and the bartenders were in demand for cocktails and wine. Furthermore, the sun was starting to fade over the docks, and the bar was filled with people eager to enjoy the evening. It was time to retire and head back to my cabin.
Time to Disembark
I didn’t want to leave in the morning, so I spent as much time as possible in my room. I enjoyed the last few hours overlooking the dock. Bags were packed and I ventured down to breakfast, where I enjoyed scrambled eggs and smoked salmon with hot buttered toast. I thanked the breakfast team, and the reception team for their extraordinary hospitality. Equally, I checked out and entered the lift for the final time, ready to disembark Sunborn Yacht Hotel London.
This unique hotel in London is a place that I have already bookmarked to return to in the future. Everything was taken care of brilliantly, from the moment I boarded to the moment I left.
Visit Sunborn London for pricing, room options, information, and anything else you need to know about this wonderful hotel.
You will always get the best price from booking directly with Sunborn London. Plus, if you book a summer 2026 stay via online you will receive a complimentary bottle of Prosecco!
Did you know that Sunborn Yacht Hotel London has a sister yacht in Gibraltar? It looks just as fabulous as the London Sunborn? Check it out here.
Sunborn Yacht Hotel – Words by Rachel McAlley @LadyRach
Image Credit – Rachel McAlley, Sunborn London, and Altitude Lifestyle
