Overview
Sunborn Gibraltar is a floating yacht hotel moored at Ocean Village Promenade in Gibraltar. As the world's first five-star floating yacht hotel, it offers a distinctive hospitality experience, combining the amenities of a luxury hotel with the unique setting of a superyacht. The property features a range of accommodation options, multiple dining venues, a spa, fitness suite, and panoramic views of the Rock of Gibraltar, the marina, and the Mediterranean. With a strong focus on sustainability, Sunborn Gibraltar has achieved notable green certifications and awards. Its location places guests within easy reach of Gibraltar's attractions and just one kilometre from Gibraltar Airport.
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Why EMPTYJET selects it
Sunborn Gibraltar appears in the EMPTYJET guide of 7,777 hotels on Earth with an EMPTYJET Consensus of 92/100, the guests’ cross-platform verdict that anchors its standing. Operational credentials include Silver in the Green Meetings Certification Program alongside the Green Silver Tourism Award and Green Key. These recognitions and the recorded guest endorsements explain the property’s place in the Selected tier of the catalogue.
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History
Sunborn Gibraltar is the flagship of a pioneering concept in hospitality. Sunborn first introduced the original floating hotel concept in 1998, and Sunborn Gibraltar is the first in a fleet of floating hotels. This innovative approach has set a precedent for combining maritime engineering with luxury accommodation, establishing the property as a significant milestone in the evolution of hotel design and guest experience.
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Architecture & interiors
As the world’s first five-star floating yacht hotel, Sunborn Gibraltar is a purpose-built superyacht designed to deliver the comforts and amenities of a luxury hotel within a maritime setting. The interiors are characterised by contemporary furnishings, marble bathrooms, and expansive windows that maximise views of the surrounding marina, sea, and the Rock of Gibraltar. The design incorporates extensive use of terraces, Juliet balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a sense of openness and connection to the waterfront environment.
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Rooms & suites
Sunborn Gibraltar offers a diverse range of accommodation, each designed to maximise comfort and views:
- Superyacht King Room: Features a king-sized bed, marble shower room, and large picture windows or floor-to-ceiling sliding doors offering impressive views.
- Superyacht Twin Room: Equipped with twin beds, marina views, marble shower rooms, and integral storage.
- Superyacht Deluxe Room: Includes a king-sized bed, luxurious shower room, and a Juliet balcony overlooking Ocean Village Marina.
- Superyacht Superior Room: Offers a king-sized bed, luxurious shower room, and a Juliet balcony with views facing the airport runway and sea.
- Superyacht Executive Room: Provides first-class furnishings, white marble bathrooms, large picture windows, and extra living space with a sofa bed.
- Superyacht Rock Suite: Features a living space with wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows, a large terrace, and a double-width Juliet balcony with views of the Rock of Gibraltar.
- Superyacht Apartment Suite: Designed for families or long stays, this suite has two separate bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a lounge and dining area.
- Superyacht Ocean Suite: Offers a living space with wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows, a large terrace, and a double-width Juliet balcony with sea views.
- Superyacht Penthouse Suite: Located on decks 4-6, these suites have extensive private terraces with outdoor furniture and sun loungers, and panoramic sea and marina views.
All rooms and suites are equipped with amenities such as mini fridge, desk, television, telephone, air conditioning, heating, free Wi-Fi, parquet flooring, rainfall shower, bathrobe, slippers, and 24-hour room service. Optional breakfast in bed and dry-cleaning/laundry services are also available.
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Dining
Sunborn Gibraltar presents a variety of dining and bar experiences:
- Barbary Restaurant: The main restaurant, Barbary, offers vegan options, a kid’s menu, signature cocktails, and is noted for its views. The setting is designed to accommodate a range of dietary preferences and family needs.
- Sunborn Gastro Bar: This venue provides a more casual dining experience, complementing the hotel’s culinary offerings.
- Aqua Bar: Located on the top deck, Aqua Bar features panoramic views of the Rock, marina, and Mediterranean. The menu includes fresh sushi, vibrant salads, nourishing poke bowls, and indulgent ice creams. The setting is poolside, with sun loungers and a plunge pool, making it ideal for relaxed daytime dining.
- Sapphire Bar: An elegant space for morning coffee or high tea, Sapphire Bar offers a refined atmosphere for guests seeking a quieter setting.
Each venue is designed to make the most of the yacht’s unique location and views, with menus that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions.
Service & reputation
Sunborn Gibraltar enjoys a strong reputation among guests, as reflected in its high ratings across major review platforms. These consistently high scores indicate a well-regarded level of service and guest satisfaction.
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Location & setting
Moored at Ocean Village Promenade in Gibraltar, Sunborn Gibraltar offers direct access to the marina and is within walking distance of local attractions. The property is approximately one kilometre from Gibraltar Airport, making it convenient for international arrivals. The yacht’s position provides panoramic views of the Rock of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean, and the bustling marina, enhancing the sense of place and maritime atmosphere.
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The EMPTYJET verdict
Sunborn Gibraltar is suited to travellers seeking a distinctive hotel experience that combines the novelty of a superyacht setting with the amenities of a modern luxury property. Its strong guest reputation, range of accommodation, and commitment to sustainability make it a compelling choice for both leisure and business guests. The location is particularly convenient for those arriving via Gibraltar Airport or wishing to explore the territory’s attractions on foot. While it does not reach the highest echelons of international luxury, Sunborn Gibraltar delivers a memorable stay with a unique maritime character.
Good to know
- Sunborn Gibraltar has achieved Silver in the Green Meetings Certification Program, as well as the Green Silver Tourism Award and Green Key, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
- The fitness suite is restricted to guests aged 18 and over.
- Typical nightly rates are about US$584.
- The property is located approximately 1 km from Gibraltar Airport, offering convenient access for travellers.
