This weekend had been sitting on my bucket list for far too long — a stay aboard the UK’s only luxury super yacht hotel, the Sunborn. To make the experience even better, we would be spending it in one of our favourite cities: London.
There’s something magnetic about stepping onto a super yacht and knowing it’s your home for the weekend. Not a ship, not a boat — a super yacht. The kind of place that makes you stand a little taller iand breathe a little deeper.
First Impressions: Stepping Aboard the Sunborn
Moored proudly at Royal Victoria Dock, the Sunborn looks like it was built from ambition and polished by the London skyline. A sleek white exterior, curved edges, polished decks and an unmistakable presence — the Sunborn doesn’t ask for attention; it commands it.
Inside, the luxury hits you immediately:
- A dramatic crystal chandelier glinting overhead
- A grand sweeping staircase that looks like it belongs in a Bond film
- Gold hardware catching the light at every angle
- Huge glass walls showcasing the docklands
Our cabin was just as impressive — plush bedding, rich finishes, and a private balcony looking out over the river. The perfect spot to unwind, breathe, and enjoy the city from a new perspective.
A Drink to Start the Weekend
Before long, we made a beeline to the Sundown Bar, drawn in by its refined atmosphere and river views.
And because it was the start of a well-earned weekend, we kicked things off exactly as we should: A proper cocktail and a spiced rum. No hesitation. No apologies.
Exploring Canary Wharf
It had been more than twenty years since I last visited Canary Wharf, back when the area felt half-finished. Now? A completely different world.
Towering skyscrapers.
Waterfront walkways.
Sculptures.
Bars and restaurants buzzing with energy.
A cosmopolitan vibe that instantly pulls you in.
We travelled there via the Docklands Light Railway, London’s automated and driverless rail system that glides above the streets, weaving between towers and offering fantastic views of the modern skyline.
After exploring, we headed back to the Sunborn for the evening.
Sunset from Our Private Deck
Back aboard, we poured ourselves a couple of drinks and settled onto our private deck. Watching London shift from day to night from the comfort of a super yacht balcony is something everyone should experience at least once.
The skyline deepened to gold, then cobalt, then black — illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights reflecting off the Thames. A photographer’s dream, and one of my favourite moments of the weekend.
Day Two: Greenwich & Leadenhall Market
Facing the Cable Cars (Against My Better Judgement)
To reach Greenwich, we took the London Cable Cars, which glide from the Royal Docks to Greenwich Peninsula.
Let me make this clear: Only two things scare me — spiders and heights.
So, naturally, Amanda insisted we take the cable cars.
At first, I thought I might actually survive the ordeal. I took pictures. I even laughed. But once we reached the highest point and a small gust of wind rocked the car, I politely expressed my concerns.
And then, the absolute lunatic I live with — laughing like a supervillain — stood up and rocked the car on purpose.
Sweat.
Panic.
Regret.
Her? Crying-laughing.
She stopped when I gave the look, but still… not funny. Not even now.§
Greenwich: History, Heritage & A Proper Pint
Once safely on solid ground, we wandered through Greenwich — a place brimming with maritime history and old-world charm.
Highlights:
- The Cutty Sark, the world-famous 1869 tea clipper restored to perfection
- Greenwich Park, one of London’s oldest Royal Parks
- The Royal Observatory, home of the Prime Meridian and Greenwich Mean Time
After the uphill trek to the Observatory and a slow wander back down, hunger struck hard. We ducked into The Gipsy Moth, a proper London pub with hearty food, cold pints, and exactly the atmosphere we needed.
Leadenhall Market: A Hidden Gem
Next on the list: Leadenhall Market.
This place feels like walking into another era. Its roots stretch back to the 14th century, and the current Victorian structure is an architectural masterpiece — ornate ironwork, colourful roof panels, cobblestones, and warm lighting.
Inside you’ll find:
- Cosy bars
- Independent shops
- Restaurants tucked under vaulted ceilings
- Boutique finds
- Endless photography opportunities
Walk out of the back and the modern world hits you instantly — the magnificent Leadenhall Building, better known as the “Cheesegrater,” rises above the historic market in a dramatic old-meets-new contrast.
Heading Home
Leaving the Sunborn wasn’t easy. From boarding to departure, everything was flawless — the service, the food, the views, the surroundings. A weekend of true luxury.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely. Without hesitation.
Until next time, Sunborn.
You were unforgettable.
Useful Information:
- 🌎 Location: Royal Victoria Dock, London, England.
- ℹ️ Details: A unique, 4-star luxury floating hotel, A permanently moored super yacht.
- 🏢 Central Landmark: Directly opposite the ExCeL London.
- 📍 Satnav: Exact location of the super yacht
- 🧭 Coordinates: 51.50724498772413, 0.02419090175059786
- 🌐 Official Link: Sunborn London Yacht Hotel
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- Stay Aboard the Sunborn: A Luxury Super Yacht Hotel Weekend in London
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