Floating Hotels for the Most Relaxing Getaways Ever
The Float House River Kwai Resort, Thailand
Called a “fancy boutique hideaway,” The Float House Rover Kwai Resort is a collection of sustainable floating villas that can only be reached by boat. Designed with custom-made teakwood furniture with thatched roofing, the villas also feature a private balcony and pier for wildlife viewing and relaxation.
OFF Paris Seine, France
Moored at the foot of the Austerlitz station, OFF Paris Seine Hotel & Bar offers 54 rooms and four suites and offers patrons a plunge pool and marina. While rooms may offer scenic views of the dock, the Seine and the city, stay in the Designer Sunset Suite – with touches of mandarin and copper - or Designer Silver Suite – which has a ceiling adorned with mirrors - for a unique experience.
Want to pay a visit to OFF but don’t want to stay in the floatel? The bar offers breakfast and brunch for non-patrons with an advanced reservation.
Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
With 47 floating villas set on the turquoise Indian Ocean, Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives is like a dream. Swim out — or take the canoe — to a hammock in the middle of a lagoon for an afternoon nap in the sun or chill upon the floating lounge deck. Treat yourself to a fine-dining experience at The 360 Table or arrange a private chef.
Taj Lake Palace, India
Arrive in a private jetty and be greeted in style — with champagne and a showering of rose petals – to this stunning floating resort in India. The 66-room Taj Lake Palace is billed as “the most romantic hotel in the world” has lake views from every room and offers luxury amenities such as butler service, spa treatment and fine dining.
A fun fact about this hotel: It was used in the 1983 James Bond movie, “Octopussy.”
Salt & Sill, Sweden
Located in Sweden, Salt & Sill consists of six two-story houses built on floating pontoons. Styled in modern Scandinavian simplicity, the hotel's roof is a large sun deck, ideal for relaxing in the sun and taking in the ocean view.
The 23-room floatel has a restaurant as well as a variety of packages to meet the needs of visitors.
Zambezi Queen, Namibia and Botswana
Located on the great Chobe River that borders Namibia and the Chobe National Park in Botswana, the Zambezi Queen Collection is made up of four houseboats and is said to offer its guests elegance and luxurious comfort. With air conditioning and private balconies, guests are invited to go on safari from the water. And with a dining room, bar and lounge, patrons won’t be lacking for dining options.
Guntu, Japan
Minimalist design and clean lines allow visitors who stay at Guntu, Japan’s brand new floating hotel, to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings of the Seto Inland Sea. The 19-room floatel has private balconies for every room and floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can also enjoy the traditional tea room and the indoor/outdoor cocktail bars.
The Good Hotel, England
The Good Hotel isn’t only stunning, it also trains unemployed local residents to work in the hospitality industry. The property is located in the historical Royal Victoria Docks in London, on the River Thames, and promises stunning views from its rooftop deck.
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Diners can relax in The Living Room with a cocktail or a local beer or enjoy their cafe classics on the roof.
For luxury accommodations and views you won’t get anywhere else, these floating hotels bring new meaning to the word “waterbed.”
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We dare you to book a stay at one and try not to relax.