Luxury, wellness, and heritage are just a few options to choose from—and just when you think it can’t get better than this, consider booking a stay in a floating hotel! These unique accommodations are situated in some of the world’s most beautiful locations, from the crystal-clear lagoons of the Maldives to the breathtaking lakes of India.
Ahead, we have curated a list of the most incredible floating hotels in the world. Take a look!
1. The Manta Resort, Tanzania
The Manta Resort in Tanzania gives you an opportunity to have a closer look at the underwater world through its room at its base. A boat will take you to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Manta Island is one of the most cherished places, which offers you a list of amenities and a choice of accommodation options. From watertight chambers to rooftop decks, you can easily picture yourself floating over the spectacular waters, enjoying a lifestyle you would’ve otherwise missed on land.
2. Aqua Mekong, Vietnam
If you’re someone looking for an adventure while being at the centre of all the luxuries, Aqua Mekong invites you in. It is a small yet ultra-luxury cruise ship with fine dining and a pool place to unwind. The luxury cruise ship has one restaurant for the needs of all its guests, which features flavours from Vietnam and Cambodia. In the evening, the meeting rooms become a spot for connecting and having a drink at the bar. Aqua Mekong has various accommodations for you in the form of different spacious suites. From immersing yourself in local cultures to kayaking—it’s a whole package!
3. Aurora Huts, Island
The Aurora Borealis is one of nature’s most mesmerising spectacles, and for travellers eager to witness it, Aurora Huts offer the perfect retreat. These floating igloos not only provide a cosy, luxurious escape but also a front-row seat to nature’s light show in remote, untouched landscapes. Their thoughtful, eco-conscious design minimises environmental impact while blending seamlessly with the surroundings, ensuring that your experience is both intimate and sustainable.
4. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, India
Book your stay in Udaipur’s Taj Lake Palace, which is nestled on an island in the serene Pichola Lake. Taj Lake Palace is a stunning white marble palace that exudes elegance and grandeur. Originally built as a summer palace for the Maharana of Udaipur, this iconic hotel is now a luxury retreat renowned for its breathtaking beauty and impeccable service. The palace showcases intricate carvings, ornate arches, and beautiful courtyards, reflecting the rich heritage of Rajasthan.
5. The Float House River Kwai Resort, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Known for its floating bungalows and tranquil atmosphere, this resort offers a truly unforgettable experience. Each villa is beautifully designed with traditional Thai architecture, featuring natural wood materials and thatched roofs. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including boat trips, visiting nearby historical sites like the famous River Kwai Bridge, exploring waterfalls, and trekking through nearby forests. The resort emphasises eco-friendly practices and allows guests to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying modern amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private balconies with stunning river views.
6. Off Paris Seine, France
Moored between Gare d’Austerlitz and Gare de Lyon, Off Paris Seine is the city’s first floating hotel and bar and offers a unique urban experience with a modern design. The hotel provides stunning views of the Seine and easy access to major attractions in Paris. Off Paris Seine is not only known for its prime location and innovative design but also for its trendy atmosphere, making it a favourite for visitors seeking a different, stylish way to experience Paris. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a place to unwind, or a cool spot to explore the city’s vibrant culture, this floating hotel offers a memorable stay right on the Seine.
7. Fingal, Scotland
Fingal is a luxurious floating hotel docked in the historic Port of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland. Originally a lighthouse tender ship, Fingal has been transformed into an elegant hotel that offers a unique blend of maritime heritage and modern luxury. The ship has been beautifully restored, featuring opulent interiors that combine nautical charm with contemporary comfort. Fingal boasts 23 beautifully appointed cabins, each named after iconic Scottish lighthouses. The cabins offer a cosy, luxurious retreat with elegant furnishings, high-end amenities, and large porthole windows that provide views of the harbour.
8. Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi is a renowned luxury resort located in the Maldives, set on a private island in the North Malé Atoll. Known for its eco-friendly approach and sustainable practices, the resort offers an exclusive and serene getaway amidst crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. The resort features spacious overwater villas, each designed with natural materials like wood and glass, blending perfectly with the surrounding environment. Dining at Gili Lankanfushi is a culinary delight, with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients and exquisite international and Maldivian cuisine.
9. Arctic Bath, Sweden
Located on the Lule River, this unique floating hotel and spa is designed to resemble logs caught adrift in the river, symbolising the region’s logging history. Arctic Bath in Sweden offers a one-of-a-kind wellness and nature experience in the heart of Swedish Lapland. The highlight of Arctic Bath is its central open-air cold bath, surrounded by a circular wooden deck. After a dip in the icy water, guests can warm up in the saunas, hot tubs, or enjoy a range of spa treatments, including massages and facials that incorporate local, organic ingredients. Activities like northern lights viewing, dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing are available, providing guests with an authentic Arctic experience.
