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Large superyachts visiting London, England on the river Thames are an exciting spectacle, but also a fantastic base to access events and the central parts of the city, making London a very interesting yacht charter prospect. There are also luxury yacht marinas and berths available with more currently being developed.

On such marina is the historic St Katharine Docks in central London which has berthage for 200 luxury yachts and historic barges. A haven of tranquillity and nestled in the heart of the City of London, St Katharine’s is directly adjacent to the iconic Tower Bridge and next to the Tower of London. The marina is home to visiting and local superyachts and also provides space for private and corporate events amongst the associated commercial buildings.

St Katharine Docks has a thousand years of dramatic history to its name, making it one of the most interesting marina histories in the world.  King Edgar originally gifted 13 acres of land to 13 knights in 1125for trade. St Katharine’s docks have been used ever since throughout the ages for one purpose or another and then in 1825 construction began on the docks, laying down the framework for what you see today.

When visiting the UK with London on the itinerary, yachts also dock in the city of Southampton in south-west England. Many vessels drop anchor at Ocean Village Marina or Hamble Point Marina. Expect a coach or train journey time of around 1 hour 20 minutes from Southampton into South London.

London, the UK’s exciting capital city attracts visitors from around the world. Go shopping in Oxford Street, Regent Street as well as famous department stores like Harrods, Harvey Nichols or Selfridges. How about a night out at the theatre? Watch a play, musical, drama or ballet at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, the London Palladium or the Old Vic. There are many places to visit in London. It’s such a diverse city with some of the world’s best sights, attractions and activities. 

See the city from above on the London Eye, meet a celeb at Madame Tussaud’s or examine the treasures at the British Museum. Sightseeing couldn’t be better. Check out the underwater creatures at Sea Life London or marvel at the strange objects in the Science Museum. There really is something for everyone in London and plenty to do to make up a luxury yacht charter itinerary.

Buy a day ticket for a London, red double-decker bus on-off tour. What a great vantage point to catch fantastic views of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral and of course, Buckingham Palace. You’ll get a birds-eye view of London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey and the Changing of the Guard. Spend an afternoon at London Zoo, home to more than 16,000 animals like tigers, hippos, and giraffes. 

A little outside London is Kensington Palace, an intriguing Royal Palace that also houses an exhibition of Princess Diana’s dresses. Find out where Queen Victoria lived as a child and see the wonderful collection of paintings from the Royal Collection. To keep you in holiday mode, take a river cruise down the River Thames. Relax and enjoy the magnificent views as you sail past Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Cleopatra’s Needle, The Shard and the London Eye Pier. After so much excitement, it’s back to your superyacht in Southampton for the next part of your voyage.

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This document is not contractual. The yacht charters and their particulars displayed in the results above are displayed in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed. CharterWorld Limited does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information and/or images displayed. All information is subject to change without notice and is without warrantee. A professional CharterWorld yacht charter consultant will discuss each charter during your charter selection process. Starting prices are shown in a range of currencies for a one-week charter, unless otherwise marked. Exact pricing and other details will be confirmed on the particular charter contract. Just follow the "reserve this yacht charter" link for your chosen yacht charter or contact us and someone from the CharterWorld team will be in touch shortly.

• Experiences

Cruise the Thames aboard Illuminate - the Italian designed Azimut charter yacht. Up to ten guests can enjoy her spacious decks. As darkness falls, take to the flybridge for 360° panoramic views and experience London’s landmarks come alive with light.

best for weather

Soak up the sun or stay dry inside. Socialise under our covered rear deck and shelter from any unexpected turns in the weather.

best for style

Contemporary interior. Newly refurbished. A new era of Thames chartering.

the experience

cocktail cruise

Sip sundowners and witness London’s landmarks come alive whilst leading mixologists shake your perfect cocktails. Illuminate’s covered outer deck makes it the best yacht in London for cocktail cruises, whatever the weather.

TOUR THE THAMES

The best sightseeing tour in town. Our open-top deck, charismatic tour guides and various pick up and drop off points allow you to discover the timeline of the Thames.

JUST THE TWO OF YOU

A romantic gesture, a special occasion, perhaps an engagement. Enjoy privacy away from your captain and crew on Illuminate’s open upper deck or her secluded covered rear deck.

MICHELIN ON THE MOVE

If you’re a foodie you’ll be more than impressed by our selection of world class chefs. Fine dining for six or canapes and smaller eats for up to ten guests.

BOOZY BUSINESS

Wine and dine whilst getting down to business. Brainstorm, negotiate or simply entertain. Illuminate’s three separate areas provide ample space to deal and deliberate.

TWICKENHAM TAXI

Raise a glass ahead of the game and arrive in style. Illuminate will get the party started, beat the traffic and impress your guests. And after the whistle, cruise effortlessly back into Central London.

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This year, we are moving the luxury of London to the comradery of Cowes. Enjoy world class sailing, superb hospitality and all the buzz of Cowes Week aboard Illuminate.

ILLUMINATED RIVER PROJECT

The story behind the name.

Inspired by London’s spectacular Illuminated River Project – a long term light installation that will transform 15 of the cities bridges into unique works of art. And what better way to experience each bridge than from Illuminate’s covered rear deck and open air flybridge. “The Thames is London’s most ancient public space ... and the bridges that span our river are some of the most precious historic sites we have. The Illuminated River project is the next stage of the Thames evolution.”

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England

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• Private Chef on Board
• Sunset Cocktails
• Sightseeing Cruise
• Immersive Theatre
• Weddings and Engagements

Thames Luxury Boat Hire

Bourne is London’s ultimate private charter yacht, a sumptuous luxury boat available for hire with capacity of up to 12 guests and 6 Crew. There is ample space on deck, aft-deck and in the saloon with seating for comfortable dining and lounging. We offer sunset cocktails and dining on board prepared by renowned Gaucho and M Restaurant Chefs. Sit down, relax and enjoy the passing views while the knowledgeable sommelier serves his signature cocktail and your 3 course meal is being prepared on board.

Best Features

Bourne is a 15 metres long Gentlemen’s Commuter Yacht with two Yanmar 315 engines, custom built entirely from mahogany with Bar area, Dining room and Aft-deck completely at your disposal. High gunwales allow for safe walk to the bow where we love recreating that Titanic scene… Privacy is highly respected and the guests guide us in what environment they would like to be in. Photographer, Live Music, Immersive Theatre are some of the other optional experiences we could arrange to transform your special celebration into a lasting memory.

Phone: +44 (0) 770 458 2000

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Sunborn London Yacht Hotel

Royal Victoria Dock, Newham, London, E16 1XL, United Kingdom – Great location - show map

Cleanliness

Value for money

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Room was a fantastic size and having the bow of the ship as our balcony meant we had all the space in the world

The location and atmosphere was so chilled and relaxing

Have stayed 4 times now, a lovely environment and away from the hustle and bustle yet close enough to travel to the centre

The breakfast is very good as is the accommodation

A wide range of "standard" breakfasts foods included in the price. The room was a lot bigger than expected, with a powerful shower. A fully-fledged hotel despite being on a yacht. A bar, with a great view of the dock by night, serving nice cocktails just down the hall from our room.

Everyone and everything,not the water view sorry to say ,please make it clear and I’ll easily come and stay 2/3 times a year ,really good breakfast ,must say,Matty W.

The room was stunning, spotless and well looked after. Staff were very helpful and pleasant. Breakfast was exceptional. location was brilliant, close to trains, cable car etc. Would highly recommend this hotel and will stay there again.

We were looked after fantastically well. It was my wife's 60th birthday, and it was made special. Thank you so much

We travelled to London to celebrate my Daugther's 50th Birthday, the SUNBORNE exceeded all expectations. Beautiful surroundings and our dinner, which I had pre-booked was exceptional. Our room was spacious and en-suite good. The bar and restaurant are comfortable. The Sunborne was a little pricey, but if you want cheap don't book this. For a special event it was just perfect.

Impressive yacht, friendly staff and great location

Great location!

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel Reserve now

Lock in a great price for Sunborn London Yacht Hotel - rated 8.2 by recent guests.

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Good: 7 – 9

Passable: 5 – 7

Poor: 3 – 5

Very poor: 1 – 3

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• Families (512)
• Couples (3750)
• Groups of friends (268)
• Solo travellers (443)
• Business travellers (609)
• Superb: 9+ (2968)
• Good: 7 – 9 (1482)
• Passable: 5 – 7 (479)
• Poor: 3 – 5 (233)
• Very poor: 1 – 3 (162)

You're eligible for a Genius discount at Sunborn London Yacht Hotel! To save at this property, all you have to do is sign in .

Located less than a minute's walk from ExCeL London, the Sunborn London is a floating super-yacht hotel docked in Royal Victoria Dock, boasting free WiFi access, a bar and a restaurant. The hotel is 7 minutes' drive from London City Airport and a 6-minute drive from the iconic Canary Wharf. Each of the smartly designed rooms feature a TV with Freeview, air conditioning and an electric kettle. Also included is a shower, a hairdryer and free toiletries. Some of the rooms also benefit from a view overlooking The Royal Docks. At Sunborn London there is a 24-hour front desk and a sun deck. Other facilities offered at the property include a ticket service, a tour desk. The lounge bar serves a selection of beers, wines, ciders and spirits. In the restaurant, a buffet breakfast with continental and cooked items is served each morning. An à la carte menu is available in the evenings. Custom House Docklands Light Railway Station is 5 minutes' walk away. It offers direct routes to Westfield Stratford City and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Emirates Royal Docks Skyline is a 5-minute journey on foot. It offers a direct route to The O2 Arena.

Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.8 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Family rooms
• Non-smoking rooms
• Room service
• 24-hour front desk
• Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
• Good breakfast

Property highlights

Top location: Highly rated by recent guests (8.8)

Want a great night's sleep? This hotel was highly rated for its very comfy beds.

Saved to 25117 lists

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

See what guests loved the most:

Hotel surroundings

Restaurants 1 restaurant on site.

• Cuisine British • Mediterranean • Asian • International
• Ambiance Modern
• Dietary options Vegetarian

Facilities of Sunborn London Yacht Hotel Great facilities! Review score, 8.3

• Toilet paper
• Bath or shower
• Private bathroom
• Free toiletries
• Wardrobe or closet
• Sun terrace
• Coffee machine
• Electric kettle
• Clothes rack
• Seating Area
• Flat-screen TV
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Invoice provided
• Concierge service
• Luggage storage
• Daily housekeeping
• Dry cleaning Additional charge
• Laundry Additional charge
• Fax/photocopying Additional charge
• Meeting/banquet facilities Additional charge
• Fire extinguishers
• CCTV in common areas
• Smoke alarms
• Security alarm
• Key card access
• Safety deposit box
• Air conditioning
• Non-smoking throughout
• Wake-up service
• Laptop safe
• Ironing facilities

Sustainable initiatives

See availability house rules.

Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in

Until 11:00

Cancellation/ prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required room.

Children and beds

Child policies

Children of any age are welcome.

To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.

Cot and extra bed policies

Cots and extra beds are not available at this property.

Age restriction

The minimum age for check-in is 18

Pets are not allowed.

When booking more than 8 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

Accepted payment methods

Cash is not accepted Sunborn London Yacht Hotel accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

The fine print Need-to-know information for guests at this property

Please note that the extra child or adult can stay in a sofa bed.

Cash payments are currently unavailable due to to Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please note the same card used for booking needs to be presented at check-in.

An incidentals charge applies upon arrival. A charge of GBP 40 per day is required if guests pay via credit or debit card, or GBP 100 per day if guests pay with cash.

Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

Please inform Sunborn London Yacht Hotel in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.

In the event of an early departure, the property will charge you the full amount for your stay.

This property may host on-site functions and some rooms may be affected by noise.

In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to help protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.

In accordance with government guidelines to minimise transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary and other relevant information, during dates where such guidelines exist.

Spa and gym facilities at this property are unavailable due to Coronavirus (COVID-19).

FAQs about Sunborn London Yacht Hotel

What are the check-in and check-out times at sunborn london yacht hotel.

Check-in at Sunborn London Yacht Hotel is from 15:00, and check-out is until 11:00.

How much does it cost to stay at Sunborn London Yacht Hotel?

The prices at Sunborn London Yacht Hotel may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates you select, hotel's policy etc.). See the prices by entering your dates.

Does Sunborn London Yacht Hotel have a restaurant on site?

• Lands End Restaurant

What type of room can I book at Sunborn London Yacht Hotel?

How far is sunborn london yacht hotel from the centre of london.

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel is 6.2 miles from the centre of London. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

What is there to do at Sunborn London Yacht Hotel?

The best of london, institutions.

• Houses of Parliament
• Buckingham Palace
• Tower of London
• Tower Bridge
• Victoria Park

Popular areas

• Trafalgar Square
• Piccadilly Circus

Shopping areas

• intu Lakeside Shopping Centre
• Stratford City Westfield
• Borough Market

Stadiums and arenas

• Olympic Stadium
• London City Airport (LCY) 1.1 miles
• London Heathrow Airport (LHR) 20.7 miles
• Rochester Airport (RCS) 23.2 miles

Railway stations

• Blackheath station

Underground railway stations

• Stratford Tube Station
• Canada Water
• Liverpool Street Underground Station
• London Bridge Underground Station

Most popular cities

• Southend-on-Sea

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At London Luxury Charters we are delighted to offer you the ultimate VIP luxury cruise experience on the iconic River Thames. Our private boats are equipped with all the amenities you need to enjoy bespoke, champagne, and romantic cruises in style.

As you glide along the Thames, you will be treated to stunning views of London's most iconic landmarks.

Our experienced crew will ensure that you have a memorable and unforgettable experience, with bespoke service tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Contact us today to book your luxury Thames cruise and experience the beauty of London's iconic river in style.

Click the designmynight link below to see whats on!!

[email protected]

07932431948

DISCOVER LONDON

In iconic luxury, featured experience.

New Year's Celebration Cruise

Care to party-cipate.

Start the New Year off with an unforgettable cruise amongst London’s iconic landmarks. Raise a glass in style with your friends and family on one of the most exciting nights of the year. 

With the best seats in town and breathtaking panoramic views of the fireworks,  party the night away on London’s largest private yacht!

Chelsea Charters invites you to savour a range of London’s Thames experiences, from fine-dining dinner cruises crafted by Michelin star chefs to upscale cocktail cruises hosted by world-class mixologists. With an array of amenities on board, we also cater to those who prefer self-catering cruises, ensuring you have the flexibility to create your perfect voyage. Our offerings are designed to provide the epitome of luxury whilst experiencing London’s most famous landmarks from a wonderfully unique perspective.

Our charters, special occasions.

For those special moments in life, whether a proposal or a birthday, our yacht hosts the most unforgettable occasions.

Sightseeing Tours

Experience London’s most iconic landmarks in Luxury. With bespoke tours, you can soak up the rich and detailed history of the Thames

Corporate Events

Perfect for product launches, meetings and team building, our yacht offers the ideal layout for any corporate event.

Filming & Photoshoots

For the most iconic setting in London, our yacht is perfect for music videos, fashion photography, adverts and TV filming.

Looking for something a little more bespoke?

Get in touch today and we will be more than happy to accommodate your every need.

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Find out how we’re driving sustainability from the inside out.

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Charter your own private yacht on the River Thames this summer

Set sail on Illuminate London, where panoramic views, flowing champagne and a professional skippered crew come as standard

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Illuminate London

Waterways across the UK have become decidedly busier since lockdown rules have been relaxed. Whilst most flock to the open parks this summer, those seeking a more refined experience, have turned their attention to London’s open waters. If you’ve ever thought about living it up on a luxury yacht like an F1 driver post-Monaco Grand Prix, it can now easily become a reality with Illuminate London . Aside from offering privacy and endless photo opportunities, private yacht charters are infinite in their scope, whether it’s for a romantic rendezvous or an informal business lunch.

Illuminate’s Italian-designed Azimut 46 Flybridge is a luxury yacht that combines speed, comfort and elegance with spacious social areas. At 15 metres, it is also the perfect length to cruise down England’s second-longest river.

Offering 360º panoramic views of London, the Illuminate yacht can accommodate up to 10 guests across its three areas. The upper deck, with its sociable seating arrangement, is the perfect place for open-air entertainment; the lower deck is partially sheltered, with sliding doors leading into the open-plan living quarters. A skipper and crew ensure the only thing you have to worry about is refilling your champagne glass and enjoying the view.

Illuminate offers Michelin-standard onboard dining options. Chef Philippe, a veteran of London’s fine-dining scene, creates bespoke menus ranging from light canapés to a formal culinary experience. No cruise would be complete without drinks, so, should you wish, an onboard mixologist can also be arranged.

Those looking for a dose of culture can request a tour guide, handy as you cruise past some of London’s most famous landmarks. Depending on your needs, the Illuminate team will happily repurpose the yacht’s spacious cabin for your personal use.

No charter is the same – how to customise your cruise:

• Cruises typically set off from Imperial Wharf, Chelsea, but alternative piers can be arranged
• All of Illuminate’s cruises include Champagne on arrival, fresh flowers, a skipper and crew
• Michelin on the move – Illuminate’s chef draws on his Michelin-star training to provide bespoke culinary experiences. From fine dining for up to six guests, to canapés for up to 10
• Business meetings – wine and dine while getting down to business. Illuminate’s three separate areas provide ample space to deal and deliberate
• Tailored cocktails and drinks can be served by a private mixologist.
• A proposal – be it a small band (to appear from below deck as a romantic gesture) or a specially planned ring display

To enquire about Illuminate London, please contact [email protected] . Receive a 10% discount when quoting Luxury London upon booking.

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Sunborn London

Docklands, London, England, United Kingdom

• Full Review
• A floating super yacht hotel with serious novelty factor
• Moored right opposite Excel conference center
• Minutes' walk from DLR train station
• Easy access to London's City Airport
• Relatively spacious rooms, most with water views
• In-room Lavazza coffeemakers and Sony tablets
• Restaurant and terrace bar with water views
• Far from tourist center
• No fitness facilities

Bottom Line

The 136-room Sunborn London is an upper-mid-range hotel in the form of a 394-foot super yacht moored in London's Royal Victoria Dock. Rooms are pleasant, surprisingly spacious, and most have views over the water, though decor is more cruise liner than luxury yacht. Some rooms have spacious decks and big soaking tubs; all have coffeemakers, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. Eating and drinking options are solid though lack of fitness facilities feels like an oversight. Overall, for maritime enthusiasts with business in the area it's perfect, but tourists wanting to explore the capital's attractions should look elsewhere. Wi-Fi is free throughout. 

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An upper-mid-range floating hotel set on a super yacht .

The Sunborn London is not only the capital's only floating hotel, it's the only one occupying a 394-foot super yacht. Built without an engine, however, it was towed from its native Finland and opened as upper-mid-range water-based lodgings in 2014. From the outside -- with its sleek marine lines -- it looks every inch the luxury vessel. Inside , however, the look and feel is deliberately more traditional, with polished brass railings, teakwood paneling, and the occasional nautical touches across all five of its floors. The resulting vibe is certainly more cruise ship (albeit an attractive one) than billionaire's playground. There's plenty of outside space on deck for enjoying the surrounding docks -- if not the most attractive of views -- accompanied by the sound of planes taking of and landing at the nearby City Airport. A solid pick for the novelty factor and for guests with business at the nearby conference center, this hotel is a bit far from main tourist attractions.

Moored in Royal Victoria Dock to the east of London's Canary Wharf

The hotel is permanently moored in the London ’s Royal Victoria Dock in the Docklands area in the east of the capital. The city's largest conference and events venue -- the Excel Center -- is located right opposite while the DLR (Dockland's Light Railway) station of Custom House is just minutes away on foot. From here it's just about 15 minutes by train to London's business district of Canary Wharf. While it's not ideally located for tourists, public transport links to the city center in around half an hour. City Airport however is right nearby and takes less than 10 minutes by car. 

Relatively spacious rooms with Sony tablets and Lavazza coffeemakers

The hotel's 136 rooms are certainly a lot larger than your average cruise ship cabins, but all follow cruise liner styling with plenty of polished teak, brass trim, and maritime touches. Unlike a cruise ship, all rooms are outward facing and most have large picture windows overlooking the water (some have small furnished balconies too). Amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs plus sitting areas, and a Sony tablet for web browsing and ordering room service. Lavazza coffeemakers and minibars with free water also come standard. Clean, well-maintained bathrooms provide wall-mounted hairdryers, walk-in showers, and Molton Brown products. The top-end Yacht Executive Suite we saw had its own private sauna and large balcony.

Restaurant and terrace with water views, free Wi-Fi, and a small spa with massage treatments

The hotel's Lands End restaurant provides a pleasant space awash with mirrored glass and teak paneling with large windows overlooking the water. A la carte and set breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus are served with British, Asian, and Mediterranean influences. The adjoining bar provides house cocktails, snacks, and meals as well as an outdoor terrace with views of Canary Wharf and the O2 arena. A small spa also provides a range of massage treatments though there are no fitness facilities on-site. Wi-Fi is free throughout.

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5 Cool Boatels to Live Out Every Seafaring Fantasy

Funny how “sailing off into the sunset” is shorthand for a happy ending. For many of us, being on the water in a seafaring vessel counts among our favorite vacation memories. Thankfully, you can get your boating fix without abandoning your sightseeing plans. These five funky “boatels” (boats-turned-hotels) give travelers a quirky home base near…

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Babysitting services, balcony / terrace / patio, basic television, dry cleaning, kids allowed, meeting / conference rooms, mini bar (with liquor), poolside drink service, room service, separate bedroom / living room space.

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.

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St Katharine Docks    Coming 2025

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Bringing the very best of luxury yachting to the heart of London, London Afloat is the ultimate showcase for prospective boat buyers, where some of the most beautiful and luxurious sail and motor yachts in the world can be found.

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Yacht hotels, about sunborn luxury yacht hotel.

Sunborn Group is a privately owned property and development company. Sunborn pioneered the original floating hotel concept in 1998 and has since created a number of bespoke Yacht Hotels for prestigious international locations.

The Sunborn Group also operates two renowned spa hotels in Finland. Naantali Spa is situated close to the pretty maritime town of Naantali and occupies the site of an historic spring. Ruissalo Spa is 10Km outside Turku on beautiful Ruissalo Island.

Sunborn Gibraltar

A magnificent five-star yacht hotel moored in an idyllic marina on Western Europe’s southernmost tip, Sunborn Gibraltar introduces a new concept of luxury to this famously exclusive setting.

Hotel Guest Experience

A stay aboard Sunborn London offers visitors a rare experience. Inside, the yacht provides all the quality and comfort of a top hotel; suites are airy, spacious and luxurious – with views of the river and dock – and public areas are outstanding.

Superyacht London Hotel

Imagine staying in the lap of luxury aboard a glamorous superyacht moored in an exclusive location. It’s the epitome of luxury: Sunborn London’s impossibly sleek exterior showcases polished decks and dazzling walls of glass, while inside every space is designed for luxury and comfort

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Captivating luxury yacht charters not to be missed at PBIBS 2024

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By Katie Scott   20 March 2024

All set and ready for an action-packed four-day run, the Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS) has a display of more than 800 yachts and boat charters in attendance, with over 600 curated brands showcasing some of the hottest new models and game-changing innovations. 

Displaying a broad range of motor yachts, sportsfishers, sailing yachts, and superyacht charters , visiting PBIBS is a great way of finding inspiration for future USA yacht charters or for obtaining new and innovative products to add to a current collection of gadgets or water toys.

Taking place shortly after the Miami International Boat Show , PBIBS and its iconic location adjacent to Flagler Drive is set to once again impress a crowd of 55,000+ with some impressive luxury yacht charters.

As the 2024 edition of PBIBS opens its doors, here's a look at some of the captivating luxury yacht rentals in attendance.

An award-winning luxury yacht charter, 295.7ft (90.1m) charter yacht NERO steals the show wherever she berths. Unmistakable even at a distance, this striking Corsair yacht charter knows how to make an impact and keep her charter guests entertained throughout voyages around yacht charter destinations . 

Built in 2007 and then refitted in 2021, NERO is a beautifully styled yacht charter ideally suited for Mediterranean yacht charters with a generous selection of social areas throughout the interiors and exteriors, plus a stunning owner's duplex with its own private study, office, and lounge.

A 2016 Feadship charter yacht with Bannenberg & Rowell exteriors, 229.8ft (70m) charter yacht JOY features an abundance of space and superlative amenities that give her the ability to entertain charter guests with ease.

Boasting a basketball court, a spacious beach club complete with a cinema screen, and spa-quality wellness facilities, she offers the height of luxury living for unforgettable Caribbean and Virgin Island yacht charters .

Perfect for watersports yacht charters , charter yacht JOY has a good selection of water toys at her disposal including; a kayak, wakeboards, towable toys, snorkeling and scuba diving equipment, fishing gear, and more.

An outstanding Benetti yacht charter with abundant premium amenities, 214.7ft (65.4m) charter yacht TRIUMPH offers ample social and dining options with a spacious, obstacle-free layout and a flexible accommodation setup for up to 12 charter guests.

Built in 2021 this elegant yacht charter is well-suited for Caribbean and Bermuda yacht charters  with a plethora of water toys including; flyboards, waterskis, a SEABOB, wakeboards, bikes, paddleboards, and more.

Sporting an extensive health and beauty center, including a beach club and sauna, plus a well-equipped gym, deck Jacuzzi, and a motorcycle in the main salon, there's plenty onboard to keep charter guests entertained whether they want to make the most of the interiors or the waves.

Offering a multitude of decks ideal for relaxation and entertainment indoors or out, Feadship yacht charter W has an impressive capacity to be the ultimate watersports yacht charter with a well-equipped toy locker including a water slide, Jet Skis, two tenders, a SEABOB, wakeboards, kayaks, fishing equipment, scuba diving equipment and much more

Measuring 189ft (57.61m), this motor yacht charter  features an exceptional sun deck with a Jacuzzi, bar, lounge area, and shaded dining, as well as a flexible accommodation arrangement for up to 10 sleeping charter guests in five cabins. 

Also hosting private balconies, Wi-Fi connectivity, and air conditioning, she is based in the Caribbean all year round, making her a perfect partner for an Antigua yacht charter , or a visit to the annual St Barts New Year's Eve celebrations.

A stylish Palmer Johnson yacht charter , 167.9ft (51.13m) motor yacht HELIOS 2 has recently completed a refit in 2023 and offers overnight accommodation for up to 10 charter guests in a five-cabin layout.

Teeming with social and relaxing areas, she has a good range of 4,000 nautical miles, making her a great choice for exploring archipelagos like the British Virgin Islands .

Benefitting from a vast array of onboard amenities like a deck Jacuzzi, air conditioning, Wi-Fi connectivity, a good selection of water toys and a full-beam master cabin complete with its own private dressing room and study, charter yacht HELIOS 2 is an enticing motor yacht for charter guests of all ages.

An excellent new superyacht for the luxury charter market, 118.1ft (36m) motor yacht LUZ DE MAR was delivered in 2023 and has a warm, inviting persona suitable for charter guests of all ages. 

Hosting interior design from Salvagni Architetti and exteriors from renowned designer Alberto Mancini, this Azimut yacht charter boasts an abundance of spacious areas to unwind and relax for indulgent Central America yacht charters .

Designed for waterfront living with a deck Jacuzzi, large sun pads, sun loungers, and a serene beach club environment, LUZ DE MAR gives her charter guests the best opportunities to enjoy the sea with a 3 seat Yamaha Waverunner, towable toys and fishing/snorkeling equipment.

Accommodating up to 12 charter guests in a five-cabin layout, 114.10ft (35m) motor yacht STELLAMAR from the fleet of Cantiere Delle Marche charter yachts is an eyecatching 2023 build with interior design by Francesco Paszkowski Design.

Capable of transoceanic journeys, this tri-deck crewed yacht charter offers a great opportunity to not only experience a new yacht less than two years old but to experience a Mediterranean or Caribbean yacht charter in optimal comfort and style. 

Boasting Wi-Fi connectivity, a lavish master cabin complete with a private dressing room plus a good range of water toys including; two Flyboards, a pair of SEABOBs, scuba diving and fishing equipment, and more, charter yacht STELLAMAR is a great option for family yacht charters .

To find out more about the yacht charter fleet attending the event, read our guide to the 2024 Palm Beach International Boat Show , or contact your preferred yacht charter broker today for more details, availability, and yacht rental costs .

Other charter yachts attending PBIBS 2024

26m Pershing 2019

27m Sirena Yachts 2024

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From Russia, Elaborate Tales of Fake Journalists

As the Ukraine war grinds on, the Kremlin has created increasingly complex fabrications online to discredit Ukraine’s leader and undercut aid. Some have a Hollywood-style plot twist.

Credit... Devin Oktar Yalkin for The New York Times

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By Steven Lee Myers

• Published March 18, 2024 Updated March 20, 2024, 2:33 p.m. ET

A young man calling himself Mohamed al-Alawi appeared in a YouTube video in August. He described himself as an investigative journalist in Egypt with a big scoop: The mother-in-law of Ukraine’s president had purchased a villa near Angelina Jolie’s in El Gouna, a resort town on the Red Sea.

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The story, it turned out, was not true. Ukraine denied it, and the owner of the villa refuted it. Also disconnected from reality: Alawi’s claim to being a journalist.

Still, his story caromed through social media and news outlets from Egypt to Nigeria and ultimately to Russia — which, according to researchers, is where the story all began.

The story seemed to fade, but not for long. Four months later, two new videos appeared on YouTube. They said Mohamed al-Alawi had been beaten to death in Hurghada, a town about 20 miles south of El Gouna. The suspected killers, according to the videos: Ukraine’s secret service agents.

These claims were no more factual than the first, but they gave new life to the old lie. Another round of posts and news reports ultimately reached millions of internet users around the world, elevating the narrative so much that it was even echoed by members of the U.S. Congress while debating continued military assistance to Ukraine.

Ever since its forces invaded two years ago , Russia has unleashed a torrent of disinformation to try to discredit Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, and undermine the country’s support in the West.

This saga, though, introduced a new gambit: a protracted and elaborately constructed narrative built online around a fictitious character and embellished with seemingly realistic detail and a plot twist worthy of Netflix.

“They never brought back a character before,” said Darren Linvill, a professor and director of the Media Forensics Hub at Clemson University, who has extensively studied Russian disinformation.

The campaign shows how deftly Russia’s information warriors have shifted to new tactics and targets as the war in Ukraine has dragged on, just as Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have adjusted tactics after devastating battlefield losses.

Groups with ties to the Kremlin continue to float new narratives when old ones fail to stick or grow stale, using fake or altered videos or recordings and finding or creating new outlets to spread disinformation, including ones purporting to be American news sites .

A video appeared on TikTok last month claiming to show a Ukrainian doctor working for Pfizer accusing the company of conducting unlawful tests on children. On the social network X, a man claiming to be an associate producer for Paramount Pictures spun a tale about a Hollywood biopic on Mr. Zelensky’s life.

The tale attributed to Mohamed al-Alawi is not even the only baseless allegation that Mr. Zelensky had secretly purchased properties abroad using Western financial assistance. Other versions — each seemingly tailored for a specific geographic audience — have detailed a mansion in Vero Beach, Fla., and a retreat in Germany once used by Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi minister of propaganda.

The Russians have “demonstrated adaptability through the war on Ukraine,” Microsoft wrote in a recent report that disclosed Russia’s fraudulent use of recorded messages by famous actors and celebrities on the Cameo app to try to smear Mr. Zelensky as a drug addict.

Even when debunked, fabrications like these have proved exceedingly difficult to extinguish entirely.

YouTube took down the initial video of the character Mohamed al-Alawi, linking it to two other accounts that had previously violated the company’s policies. The accusation still circulates, however, especially on platforms, like X and Telegram, that experts say do little to block accounts generating inauthentic or automated activity. Some of the posts about the video appear to have used text or audio created with artificial intelligence tools; many are amplified by networks of bots intended to create the impression that the content is popular.

What links the narratives to Russia is not only the content disparaging Ukraine but also the networks that circulate them. They include news outlets and social media accounts that private and government researchers have linked to previous Kremlin campaigns.

“They’re trolling for a susceptible (and seemingly abundant) slice of citizens who amplify their garbage enough to muddy the waters of our discourse, and from there our policies,” said Rita Katz, the director of the SITE Intelligence Group, an American company that tracks extremist activity online and investigated the false claims about the villa.

The Making of a Fake Journalist

The video first appeared on Aug. 20 on a newly created YouTube account that had no previous activity and almost no followers, according to the Institute of Strategic Dialogue, a global nonprofit research organization in London, which traced the video’s spread.

The man appeared in a poorly lit room reading from his computer screen, which was reflected in his thick glasses. He appeared to be a real person, but it has not been possible to verify his actual identity. No one by the name of Mohamed al-Alawi appears to have produced any previous articles or videos, as would be expected of a journalist. According to ActiveFence, an internet security company, the character has no educational or work history, and no network of friends or social connections online.

The video, though, showed what purported to be photographs of a purchase contract and of the villa itself, creating a veneer of authenticity for credulous viewers. The property is, in fact, part of a resort owned by Orascom Development, whose website highlights El Gouna’s “year-round sunshine, shimmering lagoons, sandy beaches and azure waters.”

An article about the video’s claim appeared two days later as a paid advertisement, or branded content, on Punch, a news outlet in Nigeria, as well as three other Nigerian websites that aggregate news and entertainment content.

The article had the byline of Arthur Nkono, who according to internet searches does not appear to have written any other articles. The article quoted a political scientist, Abdrulrahman Alabassy, who likewise appears not to exist except in accounts linking the villa to the corrupt use of Western financial aid to Ukraine. (Punch, which later removed the post, did not respond to requests for comment.)

A day later, the claim made its first appearance on X in a post by Sonja van den Ende, an activist in the Netherlands, whose articles have previously appeared on propaganda outlets linked to the Russian government, according to the Institute for Strategic Dialogue. (She also served as an election observer in an occupied territory of Ukraine during Russian parliamentary elections in September.)

Within days, reports about the villa appeared on X in French and Romanian, and in English on three different Reddit forums.

According to Roberta Duffield, director of intelligence for Blackbird.AI, an internet security company, nearly 29 percent of the accounts amplifying the reports appeared to be inauthentic bots, an unusually high number that would normally indicate a coordinated campaign.

Eight days after the video appeared, Russia state television networks like Channel One, Rossiya 24 and RT (in Arabic and German) reported it as a major revelation uncovered by a renowned Egyptian investigative journalist.

The story seemed to stall there. Naguib Sawiris, the scion of the Egyptian family that owned the development, curtly denied the sale in a reply on X.

And no more was heard from or about the character called Mohamed al-Alawi — until late December.

That was when two new videos emerged on a YouTube channel called “Egypt News,” claiming that he was dead.

The channel had been created the day before. One video showed a man identified as Alawi’s brother, Ahmed, answering questions from another man.

The police, he said, told him that they suspected his brother had been beaten to death by “Ukrainian special forces who acted on behalf of President Zelensky or another high-ranking official.”

He spoke with his hand cupped over his face to obscure his identity. The other video showed what was said to be the site of an attack, though the images were indistinct. “I can’t tell you anything else,” he said in the video, which YouTube later removed. “I’m afraid for my family.”

The video also tried to explain away some of the obvious holes in the initial story, including why there was no evidence online of Alawi’s previous work. “It was his first big assignment,” the man said.

The new episode spread as the first video had. A day later, an article about the death appeared on an obscure website created last year called El Mostaqbal, a name similar to but unrelated to the actual news organization in Lebanon.

“A reporter who announced that Zelensky’s mother-in-law brought a luxury villa has died under mysterious circumstances,” the headline read. Other reports that followed dropped any uncertainty and began referring to his “murder.”

In fact, Egypt’s Ministry of the Interior said there were no reports or evidence that anyone resembling the man in the video had been “subjected to harm.” The statement went on to note that the property itself had not been sold.

Still, according to the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, posts about the supposed killing were viewed a million times on X on Dec. 25.

It also appeared on the website of the Middle East Monitor, or MEMO, operated by a well-known nonprofit organization in London and financed by the government of Qatar. A journalist who once reported from Moscow for The Telegraph of London, Ben Aris, cited it at length on the platform, though, when challenged, he said he had just made note of the rumor. “I don’t have time to check all this stuff myself,” he wrote.

It appeared in English on a site, Clear Story News, that Mr. Linvill of Clemson’s Media Forensics Hub had previously linked to Russia’s disinformation efforts. (The site lists no contact information)

Mr. Linvill described the process as a form of “narrative laundering” — moving false claims from unknown or not credible sources to ones that, to the unwitting at least, seem more legitimate.

More Elaborate Narratives

The Institute for Strategic Dialogue studied three other complex narratives about Ukraine, as well.

One featured a French journalist who claimed that the son of George Soros — a regular target of Russian and far-right political attacks — had secretly acquired land for a toxic waste dump in Ukraine. An unnamed doctor in Africa said in another that an American medical charity, the Global Surgical and Medical Support Group, was harvesting the organs of wounded Ukrainian soldiers for transplants for NATO officers.

Then there was the case of a man calling himself Shahzad Nasir, whose profile on X identifies him as a journalist with Emirates 24/7, an English-language news outlet in Dubai, though he has no apparent bylines on the site.

In November, he claimed that cronies of Mr. Zelensky bought two yachts — Lucky Me and My Legacy — for $75 million. His evidence, like Mohamed al-Alawi’s, includes photographs of the vessels and purported purchase agreements.

In fact, as the BBC documented in December, the yachts had not been purchased and remained for sale. Despite numerous efforts by fact checkers to dispel it as rumor, the claim circulated extensively.

Last month, the character Nasir reappeared in another video. This time he had a new version of the tale, claiming that the purchases had been scuttled after he exposed the secret deal.

The ramifications of these campaigns are difficult to measure precisely. There are signs, though, that they resonate even when proved false.

Senator J.D. Vance, a Republican of Ohio and an outspoken critic of Ukraine aid, seemed to embrace the claim in December during an interview on “War Room,” the podcast hosted by Stephen K. Bannon, the onetime adviser to former President Donald J. Trump.

“There are people who would cut Social Security — throw our grandparents into poverty — why?” Mr. Vance said. “So that one of Zelensky’s ministers can buy a bigger yacht?”

That prompted a public rebuke this month from a Republican colleague, Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who ridiculed those who repeat unproven allegations.

“They’ve heard somebody say that if we pass this bill, that we’re all going to go ride to Kyiv with buckets full of money and let oligarchs buy yachts!” he said of critics of the assistance to Ukraine, in what he later called a reference to Mr. Vance’s comments. “I wonder how the spouses of the estimated 25,000 soldiers in Ukraine who have died feel about that? I mean, really, guys?”

Karoun Demirjian contributed reporting.

Audio produced by Parin Behrooz .

An earlier version of this article misstated, in one reference, the name of a group at Clemson University that studies disinformation. It is the Media Forensics Hub, not the Digital Media Hub.

How we handle corrections

Steven Lee Myers covers misinformation for The Times. He has worked in Washington, Moscow, Baghdad and Beijing, where he contributed to the articles that won the Pulitzer Prize for public service in 2021. He is also the author of “The New Tsar: The Rise and Reign of Vladimir Putin.” More about Steven Lee Myers

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

A day after securing a new term in a rubber-stamp presidential election, President Vladimir Putin of Russia said he would not back down in Russia’s war against Ukraine .

With additional American aid still in doubt, Lloyd Austin, the U.S. defense secretary, called for “creative, adaptable and sustainable ways” to continue arming Ukraine  and praised European allies who were trying to bolster Kyiv’s military.

Ukraine fired a volley of exploding drones  at Moscow and other targets on the final day of Russia’s presidential vote, the local authorities said, continuing a flurry of attacks timed for the election .

Symbolism or Strategy?: Ukrainians say that defending places with little strategic value is worth the cost in casualties and weapons , because the attacking Russians pay an even higher price. American officials aren’t so sure.

Elaborate Tales: As the Ukraine war grinds on, the Kremlin has created increasingly complex fabrications online  to discredit Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, and undermine the country’s support in the West.

Targeting Russia’s Oil Industry: With its army short of ammunition and troops to break the deadlock on the battlefield, Kyiv has increasingly taken the fight beyond the Ukrainian border, attacking oil infrastructure deep in Russian territory .

How We Verify Our Reporting

Our team of visual journalists analyzes satellite images, photographs , videos and radio transmissions  to independently confirm troop movements and other details.

We monitor and authenticate reports on social media, corroborating these with eyewitness accounts and interviews. Read more about our reporting efforts .

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