Yes, we’re obsessed with the boutique hotels of Tokyo and beautiful design hotels in Sri Lanka and Croatia, but what if you’re looking for something a little different? From historic vessels that have found new life docked in port to gloriously restored traditional Phinisi yachts, if you’ve ever thought about staying on a boat hotel, here are some beautiful options for your consideration, with not a traditional cruise ship in sight.

The best boat hotels need to be experienced ASAP

1. Les Bateaux Belmond

Belmond doesn’t just have gorgeous properties on land. Explore France’s waterways with Les Bateaux Belmond (main image) and relax in stylish comfort onboard one of their six luxurious barges.

Every whim can be taken care of, with itineraries including excursions like truffle hunting, hot air ballooning and go-karting. Expect spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms and stellar service that only Belmond can deliver.

Learn more about Les Bateaux Belmond

2. Rascal Voyages

Rascal Voyages Indonesia
Rascal Voyages

Fancy staying on a teak Phinisi Yacht and sailing throughout lesser-known parts of Indonesia? If yes, then, you’re definitely going to want to know about Rascal. Step aboard this 30-metre handcrafted beauty and discover a blend of traditional and contemporary design, with all the mod cons you need for the ultimate in luxury boating adventures.

Offering five above deck cabins beautifully designed by Charles Orchard of iBal Designs, guests can enjoy Sonos music systems, flat screen TVs, en-suite bathrooms and more as they sail throughout the Indonesian archipelago.

A private chef takes care of all your dining needs, with all dietary needs catered for. Enjoy Indonesian and international delights, fresh=pressed juices and a fully stocked bar for evenings watching the sunset on the horizon.

If its experiences you’re after, Rascal can’t be beat, offering guests the chance to snorkel with manta rays, visit the dragons in Komodo and explore the national parks along the way.

Find out more about Rascal Voyages here

3. Guntu

This floating ryokan in the Seto Island Sea is one boat hotel that we can’t wait to stay on. Featuring 19 rooms, the design for the ship was completed by architect Yasushi Horibe and features warm wood to evoke an effortlessly minimal feel.

Cabins onboard feature windows large enough to capture exquisite views of the surrounding sea and mountains, and each one has its own terrace so guests can get closer to nature. Spa, sauna, gym and treatment rooms can be found onboard too, so you can rest assured that you’ll be feeling good at the end of this holiday.

In terms of dining, Guntu’s menus change daily and take into account how guests are feeling and what they want to eat. Under the supervision of Chef Kenzo Sato from Tokyo’s famed Shigeyoshi restaurant, dishes are crafted from local seasonal ingredients.

Guntu also features in our guide to the most unique hotels in Japan.

Find out more about Guntu

4. The Queen Mary

The Queen mary
The Queen Mary

Once a historic ocean liner that roamed the seas ferrying the likes of Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn, The Queen Mary has found new life as a hotel docked in Long Beach California. Built in the 1930s and having her maiden voyage in 1936, the ship offers guests the chance to step back in time and experience some good old-fashioned hospitality.

With interiors influenced by the popular Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 30s, visitors can expect strong curves and geometric patterns throughout the ship, adding to the old-world feel. 50 different types of wood from across the globe were used in the building of the vessel, with intricate marquetry, carvings and murals still able to be seen onboard.

Offering a range of dining options, guests can enjoy a long boozy brunch on Sundays or opt to take drinks in the Observation Bar. A range of suites and staterooms are available in different sizes with each decked out in warm polished woods.

Learn more about The Queen Mary

5. Zambezi Queen

Zambezi Queen
Zambezi Queen

Discover the Chobe River from aboard the Zambezi Queen. Complete with 14 luxe suites, ten standard and four master, each guestroom comes with an outer deck so that you can soak in the unique African landscape from the privacy of your own room.

This 5-star, 42-metre-long houseboat navigates over 25-km of the Chobe River allowing guests views of the game who inhabit the Chobe National Park. Watch as elephants drink from the waters, and see buffalo, leopards and lions on the banks of the river as you enjoy your luxurious surrounds.

Each meal is crafted onboard from seasonal ingredients offering guests a sample of traditional flavours and the finest international cuisine. A dining room, bar and lounge are available for guests to enjoy time outside their cabins and take in the views with drink in hand.

Find out more about Zambezi Queen

6. Aria Amazon

Aria Amazon
Aria Amazon

Explore the Peruvian Amazon onboard Aria Amazon, a river cruise ship designed by architect Jordi Puig. This custom-built ship was designed with both luxury and sustainability in mind, and offers guests the opportunity to discover the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve from the comfort of their own room.

Featuring 16 suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, visitors will have unparalleled views of the river and surrounding rainforest. On the upper deck, facilities include a Jacuzzi, lounge and bar and an outdoor observation deck.

In the dining room, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, one of Peru’s most celebrated chefs, has created a menu that utilises ingredients from the Amazon itself and showcases the very best Peruvian Cuisine.

Find out more about Aria Amazon

7. Paddington West

Part of The Boathouse collection, which also offers a selection of moored floating event spaces, Paddington West is a sublime wide beam barge which just happens to also be a lovely boutique hotel in London. Accommodating up to four guests, enjoy the gorgeous Scandi decor here brings a modern vibe to the interiors.

A range of add-ons including onboard breakfast, private chef events, Champagne on arrival, and spa treatments can be arranged in advance.

Housed in London’s first floating pocket park, you’ll be within minutes of the buzz of the city. Or if it’s relaxing that you’re after, head up to the rooftop and enjoy a good book and some vino as you watch the world go by.

Learn more about Paddington West

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