Sunborn Gibraltar

A Hollywood-style red carpet lining the gangway leading into the Sunborn Gibraltar certainly sets the intended tone of glamor and exclusively for this rather unique property. With demand for a new luxury hotel though little space to build one, the solution was this purpose-built floating hotel. Opened in 2014, measuring 465 feet (142 meters), and costing close to $200 million, it feels somewhere between a cruise ship and super-yacht. While it floats and meets almost all the criteria of a sea-faring vessel, it's fixed and never leaves the harbor. A glitzy, nautical vibe permeates throughout the hotel, starting with the reception's Swarovski crystal planet-shaped chandelier and continuing with a sweeping marble staircase, plus ubiquitous polished steel and mirrored panels. A pair of roomy glass elevators provide views over the marina while transporting guests to one of seven floors, including the decked rooftop pool terrace with views of the Rock of Gibraltar. Clientele are largely well-heeled British couples, though business guests and families with kids are also seen here. 

The hotel is permanently moored in Gibraltar's Ocean Village Marina, a lively waterfront neighborhood set between the North Mole of Gibraltar Harbor and the runway of its airport. As well as plenty of private boats and modern apartment blocks, the marina is lined with restaurants, bars, and boutiques that lend a relaxed, buzzy vibe. Gibraltar’s medieval town center is around 10 minutes on foot, while the Moorish Castle and start of the nature reserve -- known for its semi-wild population of macaques monkeys -- is about 10 minutes' drive. Gibraltar International Airport is just 10 minutes away on foot. 

The hotel has 189 guest rooms, including 18 suites, which have the feeling of spacious luxury cruise cabins. They have a smart contemporary finish that includes polished teak, reptile skin-effect paneling, and back-lit fixtures in neutral tones with pops of deep red. Most have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to tiny balconies or terraces, with the majority overlooking the marina or airport runway (few night flights means noise is not an issue); some at the rear of the boat can be prone to noise from local bars and clubs. Select suites offer spacious terraces with soft seating.

Amenities are suitably high-end, including large flat-screen TVs, Lavazza coffeemakers, and reasonably-priced minibars, plus free Wi-Fi (though connection speed can be inconsistent). All the lights, media, curtains, and air-conditioning can be controlled via snazzy touch-screen pads next to beds. Glitzy bathrooms are finished in marble and gold mosaic, with roomy walk-in showers, upscale toiletries, full-size hairdryers, and bathrobes; suites also add separate tubs.

With two full-service restaurants and several bars also serving light menus, there's certainly no shortage of on-board dining. The main eatery is the Sky Restaurant & Bar, where an extensive hot and cold breakfast buffet includes the likes of smoked salmon and chilled Cava (not included as standard). Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed alfresco both here and at La Sala Restaurant, which also extends to a bar with live DJs and an extensive gin menu. Food is generally excellent. 

A large chunk of the hotel is also given over to health and fitness facilities, including a spa (with massage rooms and sauna), state-of-the-art gym, and rooftop pool with views of the rock. The pool is fairly small and not very deep, making it better suited to taking a dip than swimming. Also note that the pool and surrounding deck close during the winter months. A swanky casino offering slots, card tables, and roulette is additionally available.