gibraltar airport to sunborn yacht hotel

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Sunborn Gibraltar

• Full Review
• Floating high-end hotel in form of super-yacht
• In buzzing marina, walking distance to restaurants and airport
• Most rooms open to balconies with marina views
• Integrated bedside touch-screen control pads
• Two excellent restaurants, plus three bars
• Rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views
• Swanky casino with slots, card tables, and roulette
• Spa offering massage treatments, saunas, and salon
• Modern and well-equipped gym
• Free Wi-Fi throughout
• Some rooms overlook noisy bars
• Pool is shallow and small
• Pool and its deck are closed during winter months
• Wi-Fi can be inconsistent

Bottom Line

The Sunborn Gibraltar is a luxury hotel with the novel twist of taking the form of a seven-story super-yacht -- albeit a static one. Its buzzy marina location is within walking distance of both the airport and the medieval streets of Gibraltar's old town. Its 189 rooms and suites impress with high-end features that include integrated touch-screen controls and striking marble bathrooms, plus most open to marina-view balconies. Dining at the two restaurants is excellent, and a rooftop pool (more like a large hot tub), casino, and spa complete an impressive package. Note, however, that the infinity pool is closed during winter months and some rooms overlook noisy bars. A more affordable but less modern option is the clifftop Caleta Hotel , which is also closer to the beaches.

Hotel & Amenities Photos

Superyacht king room.

Superyacht Suite

Superyacht Superior Room

Restaurants and Bars

Fitness Center

Oyster hotel review, luxury hotel housed in super-yacht with glitzy cruise-ship vibe.

A Hollywood-style red carpet lining the gangway leading into the Sunborn Gibraltar certainly sets the intended tone of glamor and exclusively for this rather unique property. With demand for a new luxury hotel though little space to build one, the solution was this purpose-built floating hotel. Opened in 2014, measuring 465 feet (142 meters), and costing close to $200 million, it feels somewhere between a cruise ship and super-yacht. While it floats and meets almost all the criteria of a sea-faring vessel, it's fixed and never leaves the harbor. A glitzy, nautical vibe permeates throughout the hotel, starting with the reception's Swarovski crystal planet-shaped chandelier and continuing with a sweeping marble staircase, plus ubiquitous polished steel and mirrored panels. A pair of roomy glass elevators provide views over the marina while transporting guests to one of seven floors, including the decked rooftop pool terrace with views of the Rock of Gibraltar. Clientele are largely well-heeled British couples, though business guests and families with kids are also seen here. 

Set in buzzing marina within walking distance of Gibraltar's airport and old town

The hotel is permanently moored in Gibraltar's Ocean Village Marina, a lively waterfront neighborhood set between the North Mole of Gibraltar Harbor and the runway of its airport. As well as plenty of private boats and modern apartment blocks, the marina is lined with restaurants, bars, and boutiques that lend a relaxed, buzzy vibe. Gibraltar’s medieval town center is around 10 minutes on foot, while the Moorish Castle and start of the nature reserve -- known for its semi-wild population of macaques monkeys -- is about 10 minutes' drive. Gibraltar International Airport is just 10 minutes away on foot. 

High-end amenities, glitzy marble bathrooms, and touch-screen control pads

The hotel has 189 guest rooms, including 18 suites, which have the feeling of spacious luxury cruise cabins. They have a smart contemporary finish that includes polished teak, reptile skin-effect paneling, and back-lit fixtures in neutral tones with pops of deep red. Most have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to tiny balconies or terraces, with the majority overlooking the marina or airport runway (few night flights means noise is not an issue); some at the rear of the boat can be prone to noise from local bars and clubs. Select suites offer spacious terraces with soft seating.

Amenities are suitably high-end, including large flat-screen TVs, Lavazza coffeemakers, and reasonably-priced minibars, plus free Wi-Fi (though connection speed can be inconsistent). All the lights, media, curtains, and air-conditioning can be controlled via snazzy touch-screen pads next to beds. Glitzy bathrooms are finished in marble and gold mosaic, with roomy walk-in showers, upscale toiletries, full-size hairdryers, and bathrobes; suites also add separate tubs.

Excellent dining and drinking option, plus a rooftop pool 

With two full-service restaurants and several bars also serving light menus, there's certainly no shortage of on-board dining. The main eatery is the Sky Restaurant & Bar, where an extensive hot and cold breakfast buffet includes the likes of smoked salmon and chilled Cava (not included as standard). Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed alfresco both here and at La Sala Restaurant, which also extends to a bar with live DJs and an extensive gin menu. Food is generally excellent. 

A large chunk of the hotel is also given over to health and fitness facilities, including a spa (with massage rooms and sauna), state-of-the-art gym, and rooftop pool with views of the rock. The pool is fairly small and not very deep, making it better suited to taking a dip than swimming. Also note that the pool and surrounding deck close during the winter months. A swanky casino offering slots, card tables, and roulette is additionally available. 

Air Conditioner

Babysitting services, balcony / terrace / patio, beauty / hair salon, business center, dry cleaning, kids allowed, meeting / conference rooms, mini bar (with liquor), poolside drink service, room service, separate bedroom / living room space, supervised kids activities.

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.

View Top Offer For This Hotel

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The Sunborn Yacht, Gibraltar

It takes around five minutes to transfer by taxi from Gibraltar’s airport to the luxury 5-star Sunborn Yacht Hotel, moored in the Ocean Village Marina. The narrow road entrance alongside the immense ship heightens the anticipation of what is to come.

Suddenly, the sounds of music and people, emanating from nearby cafes and bars and restaurants on the marina come into view at left, and to the front, the entrance to the 142-metre superyacht. The covered walkway eases the transition from the marina to the marble floors and vast sparkling chandelier of the Sunborn reception. A staff member offers new guests a tray of drinks at check-in and, once registered, two sets of lifts with floor-to-ceiling glass walls looking out to yachts in the marina, take guests to ultra-cool hotel rooms over six floors. Each has a spectacular view, either of the sea, or the marina, or the Rock; and a state-of-the-art touchscreen system that gives control of lighting, music, tv, temperature, even opening and closing the curtains.

Launched in 2014, the Sunborn is a fascinating introduction to a static but floating luxury yacht. It was built in Malaysia and transported by sea to Gibraltar. It has 18,500 square metres of floor space with 189 guest rooms including suites. On the seventh floor – the top deck –  there is a spa, a sauna and a gym, with an infinity swimming pool on the sun deck. Guest room prices vary from around £200-£2,500 per night, from a Twin-Room with single beds, to the more luxurious Superior King Room with a balcony and sensational views over the marina. And ultimately, the SuperYacht Penthouse suites, on fourth, fifth and sixth decks, which have two bathrooms and extensive living spaces plus expansive private terraces with sunset panoramic views of the sea and marina. Dining on board is first-rate – breakfast has to be one of the best served on board a ship in the Mediterranean – and there are two restaurants.

What is unexpected about staying here is the feeling of space and privacy. This is not a commercial cruise liner. This is a place for people who want to experience a luxury yacht without 4,000 other passengers crowding the view. There are no queues or timed entry for breakfast here. The Sunborn hosts business meetings and conferences, catering weddings for 150-200 guests, and gala events that can entertain 400 people. These take place in the ballroom and meeting rooms on the lower ground levels away from guest accommodation.

The Gibraltar super yacht-hotel, steered to success by COO Marc Skvorc, is the third to be launched by its Finnish owners, pioneers of the yacht-hotel concept. The first in 2003 was the floating Sunborn London, upgraded to a second-generation super yacht-hotel in 2014 with 138 guest rooms. It is moored on the River Thames, at Royal Victoria Dock, near the Excel centre. The success of this venture – in the City of London –  has led to a larger yacht planned to replace the current vessel. But the great advantage of the Gibraltar Sunborn, so successful as a hotel in this land-scarce city, is its location in the Mediterranean with a warm climate year-round – average temperatures for October-November are 21-24 C (70-75F) dipping towards 17-19 C (62-66 F) in winter months with July-August average 28C (82F).

The development of Gibraltar’s Ocean Village Marina and the creation of pedestrianised areas has produced new restaurants and eating places, and with it culinary tourists. Now a group of talented Gibraltarian chefs with their own establishments serve fabulous local dishes, unique to the peninsular. Try eating at The Chimney Tapas Bar to get a taste of what is happening here. Or at The Queen’s Picture House and Eatery filled with cinema memorabilia from the former Queen’s Picture House, and now a fine restaurant creating Gibraltarian specialities.

The lure of mainly retirees to the peninsular has changed. It now attracts younger generations for business and leisure trips. The ease of having the same currency, speaking the same language, and staying in a low-crime city are additives for Brits to visit. Many fly to Malaga, then cross the border from Spain to enter Gibraltar.

And when it is time to leave the luxury and refinement of the Sunborn Yacht Hotel (EasyJet and British Airways serve Gibraltar – plus private jets) perhaps take home the only thing actually produced on the peninsular, the hand-crafted premium gins from ‘Spirit of the Rock’ micro-distillery, sold in the duty-free shop at the airport.

The Sunborn Luxury Yacht Hotel, 35 Ocean Village Promenade, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA. For more information, please visit  www.sunborngibraltar.com . For more details about Gibraltar, including ideas for planning your trip, please visit the official tourism website at www.visitgibraltar.gi .

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Sunborn Gibraltar

Ocean Village, GX111AA Gibraltar, Gibraltar – Excellent location – show map

Cleanliness

Value for money

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Location was great specially overlooking the marina.

Check in was excellent. Very friendly staff, ready to assist with everything. The room was exquisite. We had an excellent view and were more than happy with the room in general. The bed was very comfortable, and we wished we could stay longer. Mohammed at the restaurant gave us the best dining experience we have ever had. The food was excellent, but his attentiveness was over the top

It was our second visit to the Sunborn, having first visited last August 2022. As we enjoyed it so much then, we repeated the visit this year. Ideally situated for sightseeing and restaurants, it is in the middle of a vibrant part of Gibraltar. The rooms are very comfortable and the staff very welcoming.

Great location down at the marina with lots of restaurants around

Everything seemed new and fresh, my room was large, location is great. What I liked best was that the staff knew what I liked after only 1 day. Also, I had 1 complicated issue, and they understood it perfectly. They are experienced and friendly.

From the location, to my room, to the amenities in my room, to the view from my room, to the courteous hotel staff, to the service at the hotel, everything was perfect for my birthday stay and my sister and I had an absolutely wonderful and memorable time at this property. Definitely one for the books!

lovely hotel! the best on gibroltar. everything is clean and modern. very polite staff. took us by car to check-in. simple miracle! we'll be back for sure!

Unique facility. Excellent location. Bellman, Francisco, was helpful and welcoming.

Great location, excellent room. very helpful staff and a great breakfast..

Great hotel, excellently located. Charming and helpful staff. Clean and well-equipped rooms, we were upgraded to a better room for free.

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Wonderful: 9+

Good: 7 – 9

Fair: 5 – 7

Poor: 3 – 5

Very Poor: 1 – 3

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• Families (227)
• Couples (515)
• Groups of friends (56)
• Solo travelers (96)
• Business travelers (88)
• Wonderful: 9+ (582)
• Good: 7 – 9 (285)
• Fair: 5 – 7 (66)
• Poor: 3 – 5 (28)
• Very Poor: 1 – 3 (18)

• Mar–May
• Jun–Aug
• Sep–Nov
• Dec–Feb

Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Sunborn Gibraltar

Sunborn Gibraltar offers unique accommodations, onboard a yacht. Located in Gibraltar, this luxury 5-stars yacht-hotel offers an infinity swimming pool, a spa, a gym and a restaurant. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout. Each spacious room, apartment, or suite provides marina, rock, or sea views. With a large flat-screen TV, bespoke design furniture and air-conditioned, accommodations also offers a champagne mini-bar and an elegant bath or shower room. Guests on Sunborn Gibraltar can enjoy fine food and amazing ocean views from the on board restaurants. Barbary Restaurant offers seasonal signature dishes prepared by an international team of chefs. Drinks can be enjoyed in the Barbary Bar or Aqua Bar. The top deck is home to the more informal restaurant and Aqua Lounge with an outdoor pool and bar. The spa at Sunborn Gibraltar offers indulgent beauty and hair treatments and a fully fitted out life fitness gym with latest equipment and saunas. Our Casino is now closed.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.3 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Private Parking
• Fitness center
• Family rooms
• Non-smoking rooms
• Very Good Breakfast

Property Highlights

Top Location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.4)

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

Private parking at the hotel

Loyal Customers

끖 There are more repeat guests here than most other properties.

Saved to 2582 lists

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Travel Sustainable Level 3+

See what guests loved the most:.

Hotel area info

Restaurants 1 restaurant on site.

• Cuisine British • Moroccan • Spanish • Local • Asian • European • Grill/BBQ
• Open for Breakfast • Brunch • Lunch • Dinner • High tea
• Ambience Modern • Romantic
• Dietary options Halal • Kosher • Vegetarian • Vegan • Gluten-free

Amenities of Sunborn Gibraltar Great facilities! Review score, 8.6

• Bicycle rental Additional charge
• Evening entertainment
• Diving Additional charge Off-site
• Bowling Additional charge Off-site
• Hiking Off-site
• Fishing Additional charge Off-site
• Wine/Champagne Additional charge
• Kid-friendly buffet
• Special diet meals (on request)
• Breakfast in the room
• Electric vehicle charging station
• Baggage storage
• Currency exchange
• Express check-in/out
• 24-hour front desk
• Daily housekeeping
• Suit press Additional charge
• Ironing service Additional charge
• Dry cleaning Additional charge
• Laundry Additional charge
• Fax/Photocopying Additional charge
• Meeting/Banquet facilities Additional charge
• Designated smoking area
• Air conditioning
• Hypoallergenic room available
• Soundproof rooms
• Room service
• Beach chairs/Loungers
• Locker rooms
• Fitness classes
• Spa lounge/Relaxation area
• Body treatments
• Hairstyling
• Hair coloring
• Hair treatments
• Makeup services
• Waxing services
• Facial treatments
• Beauty services
• Massage Additional charge
• Spa Additional charge

See availability House rules

From 2:00 PM

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card at check-in

Until 12:00 PM

Cancellation/ prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodations type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check what conditions apply to your preferred room.

Children & Beds

Child policies

Children of all ages are welcome.

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

Crib and extra bed policies

Cribs and extra beds aren't available at this property.

Age restriction

The minimum age for check-in is 18

Pets are not allowed.

When booking more than 10 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

Accepted payment methods

Cash Sunborn Gibraltar accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

The fine print Must-know information for guests at this property

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

Please inform Sunborn Gibraltar of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.

Guests under the age of 18 can only check in with a parent or official guardian.

FAQs about Sunborn Gibraltar

How far is sunborn gibraltar from the center of gibraltar.

Sunborn Gibraltar is 0.7 miles from the center of Gibraltar. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

What is there to do at Sunborn Gibraltar?

• Bicycle rental
• Swimming pool

How much does it cost to stay at Sunborn Gibraltar?

The prices at Sunborn Gibraltar may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Sunborn Gibraltar?

Check-in at Sunborn Gibraltar is from 2:00 PM, and check-out is until 12:00 PM.

Does Sunborn Gibraltar have a restaurant on site?

• Barbary Restaurant & Bar

What type of room can I book at Sunborn Gibraltar?

Does sunborn gibraltar have a pool.

Yes, this hotel has a pool. See details about the pool and other facilities on this page.

The Best of Gibraltar

Golf courses.

• San Roque Golf Course
• Alcaidesa Links Golf Course
• La Cañada Golf Course
• Cathedral of Saint Mary the Crowned
• Cathedral of the Holy Trinity

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Sunborn Gibraltar

rate per night

based on 992 reviews

About Sunborn Gibraltar

• Hotel Room You’ll have a private room with all the hotel’s amenities
• Freebies This stay includes Wi-Fi for free

Sunborn Gibraltar provides comfortable rooms and a spa, and is located within a 10-minute drive from the Gibraltar Airport. There is also a gym with an infinity pool.

The hotel offers a 24/7 reception, plus a beauty centre and a sauna. For added convenience, it features an express check-in and check-out feature, a bowling alley and an airport shuttle.

Each cosy room at Sunborn Gibraltar provides a mini bar and all the necessities for a comfortable stay.

Guests can enjoy breakfast at Sky Restaurant or La Sala Restaurant and Bar. After a long day of discovering the surrounding area, guests can sip on beverages at the hotel's on-site bars, Sky Bar and Aqua Bar. There is also the added advantage of an in-house restaurant.

The position of Sunborn Gibraltar allows easy access to many tourist attractions by foot. The tour desk can provide advice on nearby attractions, and bicycle rental is available.

Photos of Sunborn Gibraltar

Latest deals for sunborn gibraltar.

* Total includes estimated local taxes & fees payable on check out.

Prices are based on 1 night, not including taxes and fees

Amenities at Sunborn Gibraltar

• Outdoor pool
• Spa and wellness center
• Fitness center
• Room service
• Tea/coffee maker
• Business center
• Wi-Fi available in all areas
• Family rooms
• Hardwood or parquet floors
• Interconnected room(s) available
• Storage available
• Seating area
• Soundproof rooms
• Soundproofing
• Tile/marble floor
• Free toiletries
• Air-conditioned
• Conditioner

Services and conveniences

• Wake-up service
• Concierge service
• Currency exchange on-site
• Meeting/Banquet facilities
• Express check-out
• 24hr front desk
• Safety deposit box
• Bottle of water

Accessibility and suitability

• Entire unit located on ground floor
• Entire unit wheelchair accessible
• Hypoallergenic
• Designated smoking area
• Non-smoking rooms available
• Pets allowed on request. Charges may apply.
• Allergy-free room
• Upper floors accessible by elevator
• Upper floors accessible by stairs

Things to do

• Beach access
• Bicycle rental
• Scuba diving
• Evening entertainment
• Beauty salon
• Private bathroom
• Additional toilet
• Wine glasses
• Electric kettle
• Special diet menus (on request)
• Breakfast in the room

Pool and spa

• Laundry facilities
• Ironing service
• Laundry service
• Pants press

Parking and transportation

• Private parking
• Airport shuttle

Media and entertainment

• Flat-screen TV
• Cable or satellite TV
• Outdoor furniture
• Terrace/Patio
• Fax/photocopying
• Laptop safe
• Alarm clock
• Wardrobe or closet

Health and safety

• Daily housekeeping

Family friendly

• Kid-friendly buffet

Reviews of Sunborn Gibraltar

All reviews are collected from real users with a verified booking made with KAYAK or one of our trusted external partners.

Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

• New restaurant La Sala is incredible! (in 5 reviews)
• Five star absolutely fantastic ! (in 6 reviews)
• The most comfortable bed ever! (in 53 reviews)
• The sun beds were very uncomfortable. (in 13 reviews)
• Really poor pool area. (in 34 reviews)
• Nothing like the photos. (in 17 reviews)

Traveler type:

Time of year:, traveler rating:, what's nearby.

• Grand Casemates Square 312 yd
• Victoria Stadium 333 yd
• Moorish Castle 0.3 mi
• Military Heritage Centre and Great Siege Tunnels 0.3 mi
• Cathedral of the Holy Trinity 0.6 mi
• Rock of Gibraltar 0.7 mi
• The Convent 0.7 mi
• Trafalgar Cemetery 0.9 mi
• Museo del Istmo 1 mi
• St Michael's Cave 1.5 mi
• 100 Ton Gun Napier of Magdala Battery 1.9 mi
• Ibrahim-Al-Ibrahim Mosque 2.5 mi

Essential information about Sunborn Gibraltar

When to book a room at sunborn gibraltar, top tips for your stay at sunborn gibraltar.

• If you’re after a cheap room at Sunborn Gibraltar, then you should consider staying during the low season. The cheapest deals can generally be found in February and July.
• Prices can also vary depending on which day of the week you stay. For the best room deals at Sunborn Gibraltar, plan to stay on a Thursday or Monday. The most expensive day is usually Sunday.
• The cheapest price a room at Sunborn Gibraltar was booked for on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $205, while the most expensive was $246.
• How long should you stay at Sunborn Gibraltar? KAYAK users usually book their rooms here for 2 days.

FAQs when booking at Sunborn Gibraltar

What is special about the sunborn gibraltar hotel compared to others.

Combining a nautical experience with the luxuries of a 5-star hotel, the Sunborn Gibraltar offers a unique setting to its guests. The Yacht gives splendid views from any room and the ocean is not only a step away but surrounds the entire hotel. Many of the rooms also feature the bullseye-inspired window shape that adds to the marine feeling you will instantly get at this yacht hotel.

Does the Sunborn Gibraltar feature any special promotions to enhance the stay?

Specialty is the specialty of the Sunborn Gibraltar, as it aims to make your stay the most unique and amazing you’ve ever experienced. With many of the bars and restaurants featuring various deals and promotions, you can also benefit from more fun for less money. The Poolside Paradise Aqua bar has daily promotions that include various drinks and even food. La Sala Restaurant promises great deals for ladies at the Ladies for Lunch happy hour from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

How about special packages at the Sunborn Gibraltar?

The all-rounding offers certainly don’t stop at daily promotions, and with the tailored packages at the Sunborn Gibraltar hotel, your vacation gets the upgrade you’ve dreamed of. The Stay & Play package entails a night in one of the luxurious suites for two, a gourmet dinner, and credit for the casino. A baby on the way? Celebrate your baby shower at the Sunborn Gibraltar with an assortment of sandwiches, cupcakes, scones, tea, and balloons.

Why is it a must to dine at the Sunborn Gibraltar restaurants?

One good reason to dine at one of the restaurants at the Sunborn Gibraltar hotel is the assorted high-quality gourmet food that awaits in either of them. Multi-course meals lure inside the most refined of palettes, beckoning with the softest of meat, the best of desserts, and divine wines. The Barbary Restaurant’s décor leaves no wishes unfulfilled. Located on the top deck of the yacht hotel, it features a glass ceiling through which you can see the stars while enjoying your dinner.

Is there anything special at the Sunborn Gibraltar spa?

There are few accommodations which allow for you to enjoy a massage on the outside deck while the ocean waves are licking on the walls of your hotel; however, at the Sunborn Gibraltar this and more is possible. While containing plenty of treatments and massages on their menu, the Infinity Spa on board specializes in anti-age treatments, facials, and day body rituals. The day rituals allow you to delve into various relaxing treatments for many hours while lunch and refreshments are also included in the experience.

What are the meeting facilities at the Sunborn Gibraltar hotel like?

Make your event unique and celebrate on this one-of-a-kind yacht. The Aurora Ballroom, for instance, amazes with grandeur set within a modern décor. Here, you have enough space for weddings, galas, banquets, or seminars. A tad more intimate is the Atlas Meeting Room, which can host 30-100 people on 2,700 sq ft. The room boasts modern features and the latest A/V technology for a smooth business meeting without any hiccups.

Where is Sunborn Gibraltar located?

Sunborn Gibraltar is located at 35 Ocean Village,Gibraltar ., 0.2 miles from the center of Gibraltar. Grand Casemates Square is the closest landmark to Sunborn Gibraltar.

When is check-in time and check-out time at Sunborn Gibraltar?

Check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out time is 12:00 PM at Sunborn Gibraltar.

Does Sunborn Gibraltar offer free Wi-Fi?

Yes, Sunborn Gibraltar offers free Wi-Fi.

How far is Sunborn Gibraltar from the airport?

Sunborn Gibraltar is 0.3 miles from Gibraltar North Front. Sunborn Gibraltar is 38.2 miles from Tétouan Sania Ramel.

Does Sunborn Gibraltar have a pool?

Yes, Sunborn Gibraltar has a pool onsite.

How does KAYAK find such great Sunborn Gibraltar hotel deals?

KAYAK scours the web for all room deals available at Sunborn Gibraltar in Gibraltar and lets you compare them to find the best rate for your stay. Many different travel sites will offer discounts or deals at different times for rooms at Sunborn Gibraltar and KAYAK will provide you with prices from a huge range of travel sites. That means that you can always find a great deal for Sunborn Gibraltar.

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Sunborn Gibraltar - Gibraltar

Moored in the vibrant Ocean Village Marina, Sunborn Gibraltar is a unique, super luxurious purpose-built yacht. It offers an unrivalled, private experience and sensational gastronomy. Be pampered in the serene Infinity Spa or learn to sail in the sheltered bay and temperate seas on board Gibraltar’s first five-star property.

Ocean Village Marina is a scenic Mediterranean spot for yacht owners exploring the marinas, coastlines and beaches of Spain, Portugal and north Africa. The waterfront is lined with a bounty of bars, restaurants, shops and clubs to while away your time in. Enjoy one of the easiest airport transfers you’ve likely experienced, as Gibraltar International Airport is a mere mile away. Be aware that such proximity means it can be noisy with the sound of planes taking off and landing nearby.

The city of Gibraltar with its medieval town centre, packed with shops occupying handsome Italianate buildings awaits discovery. Chill out in the green oasis that is Alameda Botanical Gardens (two miles away) and visit the Upper Rock Nature Reserve (under four miles away) which is home to rare birds and macaque monkeys. Several of Europe’s premier golf courses are within easy swinging distance. Club de Golf Valderrama, San Roque Club, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, La Duquesa and Finca Cortesin are all considered to be some of the best courses on the continent and all are within a 30-mile radius.

The luxury tone is set by the ship’s reception area, with its giant mirror ball, covered gangway – complete with marble floors, and display cases crammed with Swarovski crystal and Hublot watches. Each superyacht room features the hallmarks of five-star luxury. Expect beautifully appointed rooms, tastefully furnished in warm tones of cream, caramel and brown shades using bespoke designed furniture. Designed to provide spacious, light-filled accommodation, each room has marina, Rock or sea views, in most cases framed by wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows which lead out on to a generous private terrace or balcony. All rooms offer Rituals toiletries.

Accommodation details

Ocean Village Gibraltar Gibraltar (UK) GX11 1AA

Check-in Details:

Normal Check-in: 14:00 Normal Check-out: 12:00

0.3 mi / 0.4 km from city centre

Room types and facilities

Total Number of Rooms - 187

Superyacht King

Sleeps 2, Bed Type: King(s)  Satellite television, Minibar, Air conditioning, Private bathroom, Separate Shower, Television

Superyacht Deluxe

Superyacht superior.

Sleeps 3, Bed Type: King(s)  Satellite television, Minibar, Air conditioning, Private bathroom, Separate Shower, Television

General facilities

• Health club
• Non-smoking rooms (generic)
• Complimentary in-room coffee or tea
• Concierge desk
• Exercise gym
• On-Site parking
• Off-Site parking
• Internet services
• Beauty shop/salon
• Ironing board
• Hairdresser/barber
• 2 Restaurant
• 3 Lounges/bars
• Room service
• Dry cleaning
• Safe deposit box
• Live entertainment

Other facilities

Escape and be pampered at the superb retreat that is the Infinity Spa, a serene space that offers a welcome respite from the busy outside world. This private sanctuary offers a range of calming and anti-ageing treatments, as well as relaxing massages. Give yourself over to the skilled therapists while they apply the very best Elemis skincare products with active natural ingredients to fully revitalise you. Soothe tired hands and feet after a busy day of sightseeing. Prep for a big night out with a beauty treatment, or book a special romantic couples’ package, complete with chocolates and champers.

There’s a fitness centre equipped with brand new Insignia resistance training equipment and state-of-the-art Life fitness cardiovascular machines. It’s staffed by a team of personal trainers who will put you through your paces with a tailored fitness regime. There’s also a large sauna to relax in after your session.

Dining information

The Sunborn Gibraltar offers two tempting restaurants to choose from, the BARBARY and La Sala. Flagship eatery the Barbary on the top deck is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving up unique North African and Mediterranean fusion cuisine, drawing on the rich flavours and spices of the Barbary coast, alongside a few British classics. An accessible range of tapas dishes are available and wines are surprisingly affordable too.

The more informal La Sala offers a fantastic range of menus to choose from. A weekly set lunch menu provides great value, while a diverse a la carte menu features a superb range of Latin, Asian and international dishes. On balmy nights you can dine under the stars on the back terrace, the perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two. Enjoy DJs and live music on certain evenings.

Three bars offer a melange of ambiences to enjoy. Barbary Bar serves drinks, snacks and coffees from 10:00 to midnight, Sapphire Bar is a glamorous spot to unwind with a pre-dinner drink or high tea, while Aqua Bar on the top deck offers the perfect setting poolside. Come nightfall candles and lamps cast flickering reflections on the pool, providing a cosy atmosphere for an early evening refreshment.

Dinner service for half board guests will be served buffet-style in the Barbary restaurant.

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Address: Ocean Village, Gibraltar, Gibraltar (UK), GX11 1AA

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it is my first time to Gibraltar I am taking my daughter for a birthday surprise break I have been trying to find luxury transfers from the airport to take us to the sunborn in ocean village but haven't received any replies .Anybody know here I can get one from .Also are the bars and restaurants at ocean village open in April Thanks Angela

There is only a normal Airport Shuttle that runs 24/7 to the Sunborn Yacht. See website below.Scroll down the page until you come to the Airport Shuttle Section.This is not a Free Service and is paid for upfront or added to your Bill,I suppose. Most of the Bars etc at Ocean Village should be normally open in April.

http://www.lehotels.com/sunborngibraltar/directions

Enjoy your Stay.

Thanks for your help Nigel

You should note that the Sunborne is only a ten minute walk from the airport, so unless you have lots of luggage, or are really pushing the boat out (pun intended) then a private transfer isn't necessary.

However, if you wish to do so, the Sunborne is a 5 star hotel, and of course a private transfer can be arranged by contacting them directly on +350 2001 6000 or [email protected].

Bars and restaurants in Ocean Village as well as the rest of Gibraltar are open throughout the year.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Hotel Review: Sunborn Super Yacht, Gibraltar

It may be located on the south coast of Spain but Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, known as The Rock thanks to its terrain – Rock of Gibraltar – its viability as a holiday destination has been hampered by the lack of a truly world class hotel in recent years.

However it now looks as though that problem may have been solved. Say hello to the Sunborn , the world’s first luxury super yacht hotel.

Permanently docked in the heart of Gibraltar’s Ocean Village marina development, the 142m long Sunborn offers five star guest rooms and suites across seven floors. There’s also a casino, top floor restaurant, pool bar, spa and fitness centre.

For the first time visitors to Gibraltar can now enjoy “Britain in the Sun” in style.

Sunborn Yacht Hotel – reception

British holidaymakers, in particular, looking for a short break will appreciate the low cost flights available from Manchester, Birmingham and several London airports direct into Gibraltar. This makes a stay at Sunborn a realistic option for anyone who has ever dreamed of staying aboard a super yacht but felt it might be out of their budget.

It starts with a walk along the red carpet that runs up to the reception entrance where a glitzy, glamorous floating hotel experience is available at a relatively affordable price.  It may well be the perfect choice for a romantic sunshine getaway.

It’s also superbly located for exploring everything that Gibraltar has to offer.

Accommodation

Sunborn Yacht Hotel – accommodation

The Sunborn has 189 guest rooms and suites, offering sea, marina and rock views.

Each spacious room has wall to wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that allow in lashings of daylight and lead out on to a generous private terrace or balcony.

Push the boat out and stay in one of the Sunborn’s 18 luxury suites. Each suite has panoramic views, polished timber sundecks and bespoke furnishings creating an impressive five star finish.

Sunborn Yacht Hotel – sundeck

Situated at the stern of the yacht, the Sunborn’s sundeck is an ideal setting for a relaxing afternoon of sunbathing and sipping cocktails under Gibraltar’s clear blue skies. Or dip into the infinity pool and peer out over the marina below.

If that doesn’t sound tranquil enough, you can also treat yourself to a pampering session in the Sunborn’s Infinity Spa, which offers a wide range of massage, facial and holistic treatments.

You can also burn off those excess holiday calories in the gym, enjoy a spin in the casino and party the night away at the onboard La Sala nightclub and bar.

Food and Drink

Sunborn Yacht Hotel – food

The top deck Sky Bar offers some of the best views in Gibraltar and is the ideal spot to enjoy an afternoon cocktail or pre-dinner drinks.

Wander along to the front of the yacht where you’ll find the newly opened Wheelhouse Bar, serving up an extensive selection of champagne and champagne cocktails.

If you’re feeling hungry there’s classic Mediterranean style cuisine with a contemporary twist to be had in the Sky Restaurant. Salads, soups and fresh fish are all available along with mouthwatering cuts straight from the grill, including the excellent Galician fillet steak.

The Sky Restaurant also offers an outstanding daily brunch with a wide variety of fresh, seasonal choices available.

What’s nearby?

Gibraltar has nature reserves, botanical gardens, panoramic vistas of Morocco from the summit of the Rock, sandy beaches, watersports and, of course, the Barbary Macaques – mainland Europe’s only wild monkey population.

There’s also dolphin sightseeing tours, ancient limestone caves to explore and rich military history all within a 2.6 square mile area.

A trip to the Upper Rock Nature reserve, where you’re pretty much guaranteed to have a close encounter with one of the Rock’s resident primates is an absolute must.  Mini bus tours of the Rock are readily available, while you can also opt to take a cable car up to the top and explore it for yourself.

High speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Nearest airport

Gibraltar International Airport is located just 1 mile from the Sunborn. Monarch airlines fly from Manchester, Birmingham, London Luton and London Gatwick direct to Gibraltar.

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Sunborn Gibraltar: what the first five-star superyacht hotel looks like a decade on

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With 300 days of sunshine, Gibraltar is a no-brainer when considering a sunny weekend escape. Strategically located at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea , right next to Spain , this tiny British outpost is brimming with history, nature and diverse culture.

As well as a charming old town and the iconic rock, Gibraltar is also a sought after destination for yachters, thanks largely to its VAT-free status. Back in 2013, Sunborn made headlines when its 465-foot purpose-built yacht became the first five-star superyacht hotel in the world to take permanent residence on the sun-soaked overseas territory. A decade on, with Sunborn London under its belt and others in the pipeline, we went along to see whether the floating hotel concept still has appeal.

Docked in the busy Ocean Village Marina , Sunborn has unparallelled views of the prominent limestone Rock of Gibraltar on one side and bobbing yachts on the other. Most of “Gibs”, as locals call it, is accessible on foot. Grand Casemates Square and the main shopping street are a 10-minute walk away, and the route to the airport, which requires you to cross an actual runway, takes no more than 15 minutes.

Guests enter the hotel through a covered pathway laid with a red carpet. Inside, crystal disco ball chandeliers, bright neon lights and a grand stairway await with a spacious reception area plastered in marble. Bling and glamour travel across the hotel, where shades of beige and white contrast with brown and red in the suites and purple in the restaurants.

Sunborn combines the classic cruise ship design with modern designer hotel vibes. The corridors to the rooms are dark, decked out in deep tones of brown wood; while the common areas are bright and flooded with light. Glass cabinets advertising the region’s speciality gin called Spirit of the Rock and Sunborn’s merchandise dress the area around the elevators.

There are 189 rooms and suites, including six one-bedroom penthouse suites and two apartment suites boasting two rooms. Almost all rooms have a balcony or terrace facing the sea or the Rock. Our suite had a large living space and a bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that opened to a wide balcony with sun loungers, a breakfast table and a sofa overlooking the majestic Rock of Gibraltar. The flamboyance carries through to the bathroom, which is clad in marble and glimmering gold mosaic tiles. From lights to curtains, everything here operates at a press of a button.

If you’re in Gibs to relax, perhaps opt for rooms on the ocean side rather than ones facing the marina, as it tends to get too loud and very noisy, especially over the weekends.

Food & drink on Sunborn

Barbary Lounge on the top deck is where the breakfast buffet is laid out first thing in the morning. The place transforms into an all-day eatery presenting a menu that marries flavours and spices from the Mediterranean and North Africa. Moorish design flows through the interiors with light drapey curtains, floor lamps and patterned carpet. Evenings at Barbary are brought to life by live musicians and DJs entertaining you while you tuck into some smoked aubergine and freshly caught fish.

On the first floor, La Sala is a standout. With plush interiors dressed in silver velvet chairs, the restaurant serves tapas-style food with an Asian and Latin twist. The presentation is immaculate, with flavour combinations that will make you want to try the whole menu. I’d normally pick a star dish, but everything from the gyozas to the salmon gravlax cured in beetroot and sake to our churros for dessert was on point. Pair your dinner with punchy cocktails or a bottle of wine.

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The hotel has a couple of bars: Aqua and Sapphire. The former is a casual outdoor space by the pool surrounded by sun loungers, perfect for cooling off the hot Med sun. Sapphire has a more formal indoor vibe, ideal for coffee or afternoon tea.

Facilities on Sunborn

Watch the sun slowly disappear behind much tinier yachts from Sunborn’s top-floor deck. On the other side of the viewing platform are the infinity pool and Aqua bar overlooking glass buildings and a vibrant marina where the party continues until early morning.

No holiday is complete without a spa treatment that allows you to switch off and unwind completely – especially after a climb up the Rock. Infinity Spa offers a selection of anti-ageing facial treatments, relaxing massages, wraps and day-long spa rituals using Elemis and Janssen products. Spend a leisurely afternoon getting a couple’s session with champagne in hand.

The liveliest spots in Gibraltar are quite literally at your doorstep when living at Sunborn. On the ground floor of the property is a casino that is home to 15 jackpot machines, electronic and pinball roulette. The venue also hosts regular poker tournaments and has a VIP area for privacy.

Extracurricular

It might not seem large, but Gibraltar has plenty of interesting activities to fill your days and evening, from hiking and diving to wildlife watching and all-night partying.

The main landmark is the Rock of Gibraltar, a 1,398-foot-high limestone monolith formed over millions of years through sedimentation and tectonic processes. Visitors can take a cable car to the top for 360-degree views of Gibraltar, drive up or hike, making a pit stop at St. Michael’s Cave , where a display of impressive stalagmites and stalactites come to life with a light and sound show. It’s also a natural auditorium for music concerts and events.

Despite its urban surroundings, the Rock is home to diverse plant and animal species. One of the most notable inhabitants is the Barbary macaque, Europe’s only wild monkey population. The flower Gibraltar candytuft is native to the upper section of the Rock and is the only place in Europe where it grows in the wild.

Gibraltar is also famous for its duty-free shopping, much of which is based on Main Street just off the bustling square. While there, make your way to the Garrison Library and the Gibraltar Museum . This quaint museum, located in Bomb House Lane, covers everything from history and culture to archaeological finds and excavations dating back to the 1950s.

Away from land, its waters are home to several species of dolphins that come here to feed and reproduce. Visitors don’t have to go far from the coast to see hundreds swimming under the boat, riding the waves and being playful. The common bottlenose dolphin is the most well known and frequently spotted species.

Best for...

Anyone looking for a long weekend getaway in the hustle and bustle of Gibraltar. Party lovers only need to head outside to access some of the best nightclubs in Gibs, and there are plenty of culinary options too, from Indian to Irish. For families, there is the option of heading to the beach or just relaxing on the sun decks.

Booking details

British Airways and easyJet operate regular flights from London Luton, Gatwick and Heathrow.

Rooms at Sunborn Gibraltar start from £185, with all-inclusive options from £299 per couple, per night. To book, visit sunborngibraltar.com

For more on what to see and do in Gibraltar, visit visitgibraltar.gi

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Experiencing Gibraltar, from the decks of Sunborn Gibraltar, the 5-Star Yacht Hotel & Casino Resort

Recently I visited Gibraltar, gaining a fascinating insight into this historic slice of Britain in the sun. My home-from-home was the luxury Yacht Hotel, Sunborn Gibraltar , writes Andrew Forbes .

Gibraltar is considered one of the ‘Pillars of Hercules’, marking the  gateway to the Mediterranean. Connected to the Iberia Peninsula, on the Bay of Algeciras, it’s a thriving community which has been a British Overseas Territory for some three centuries.

Sunborn Gibraltar

Combining the intimacy of a Super Yacht; the glamour of a cruise liner; and the refinement of a luxury hotel, I found Sunborn Gibraltar to be a unique place to enjoy upscale accommodation in Gibraltar. The Liner offers sundecks with bar and plunge pool; a spa & gym; Barbary, the signature fine-dining restaurant; a La Sala Restaurant; and spacious guestrooms and impressive suites with private terraces.

Our 5-Star Yacht Hotel experience

From the moment we arrived we felt embraced by the unique upscale yacht hotel experience. As we completed our guest registration, sipping a glass of complimentary bubbles, we were introduced to the services and facilities onboard. In addition to the bars and dining options, there is also a destination casino. Sunborn offers guests a complimentary drink in the casino’s bar, a chip to join a game of roulette; and also, a credit for the slot machines – it’s a way to break the ice for those new to casinos and provide a little after dinner entertainment.

I have to admit to having a few preconceptions about the accommodation onboard. I have been on cruise liners and yachts before and I know the greatest luxury onboard is always space.

So I was so surprised to see just how spacious our suite was. It was probably bigger than many traditional hotel suites. Sunborn was built as an ocean-going luxury vessel, but in fact never set sail as it was acquired to become the world’s first luxury 5-Star Yacht Hotel (there is now a Sunborn in London, and one planned for Manhattan). So Sunborn has been truly designed for luxury as a floating hotel, permanently moored. In case you were wondering, the boat is in a marina so doesn’t move.

Our suite not only had a spacious entrance area with work desk, but also a living area that opened onto the private terrace, and then led through to the bedroom.

The suite included a very well stocked bar, with a choice of full-size wines and champagnes and lots of tempting treats. The welcome amenity was a thoughtful gesture – fruit, savoury snacks, and treats; a lovely welcome.

The bedroom, with king size bed, and another wide screen TV was a light-filled space that also opened out onto the private terrace.

The bathroom was beautifully presented and included a tub; bespoke amenities and all the creature comforts you could wish for.

Lighting, temperature, privacy sheers, curtains etc were all controlled by an intuitive, touch screen on the multimedia phones.

Dining at Barbary Restaurant

The Barbary Restaurant is where North Africa Meet the Mediterranean. Appropriate really, since from Gibraltar one feels as if it’s possible to reach out and touch Africa. The Strait, here where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, narrows to about 14 kilometres. It is remarkable sight; where two continents almost touch.

Barbary Restaurant is Sunborn Gibraltar’s signature dining experience, popular with locals and visitors. The menu brings together the exotic flavours and colours of the Barbary coast with the produce of the Mediterranean. This is Gibraltar, so there are some classic British dishes too. It’s like a microcosm of the fascinating mix of culture in Gibraltar – a comforting, almost nostalgic familiarity juxtaposed with the uniquely Mediterranean setting.

It was a real luxury to be able to just head up to deck 7 to enjoy dinner. One can enjoy happy hour drinks at the pool bar and take in the views of Ocean Village marina, and the bay of Algeciras, and then  head up to the restaurant bar to try the special cocktails. I chose the Barbary Tonic, made with Bacur Gin with exotic flavours of ginger, pepper, star anis, cloves and cardamom – it really set the tone for  the meal.

Italian born Executive Chef Mirko Scarabello brings together the flavours of the Mediterranean with dishes that are also prepared on the kitchen’s charcoal Josper grill.

I can highly recommend starting a meal with a sharing selection of Mezze. Even the Arabic bread is homemade; the falafel with black garlic were full of flavour; the hummus was superb; and the smoked aubergine had a colourful and tasty topping of walnuts, pomegranates with labneh and dukkah.

Ordering a main course, one can  continue with North Africana and Mediterranean style dishes like lamb skewer, cous course, tagines;  jospered seabass or yoghurt marinated chicken. But I couldn’t resist the British classics and chose the lamb shank with hand cut chips.

The friendly sommelier is on hand to help guests navigate the wine list. I liked how the restaurant always had a few premium, less well-known wines available by the glass. The choice changes daily, so its worth asking. I tried a superb organic verdejo; and then a delicious Ribera del Duero with my lamb.

It was a splendid meal; in a comfortable setting with a view out across the bay. Services was friendly and attentive.

An Evening with Lady Luck

Well we couldn’t resist the opportunity to visit the Casino on deck 2. After all, guests are invited to a drink at the bar and offered a complimentary bet to place. We didn’t have much success at roulette, but it was fun to enjoy the atmosphere. My travelling companion did better at the slots, winning enough to buy a generous lunch in the heart of Gibraltar the next day!

Stylish Ocean Village Location

The vessel is a self-contained resort. One can enjoy cocktails at the Sapphire Bar; live music at La Sala Restaurant; gourmet dining at Barbary Restaurant; top up your tan on deck and work out in the gym. There’s a spa too.

What’s more there’s Ocean Village to explore. Ocean Village is a prestigious deep-water marina and leisure area within walking distance to  Gibraltar’s International Airport and the frontier with Spain. This is where Sunborn is permanently moored, providing a floating hotel and casino resort amongst the restaurants, bars and shops of the beautifully designed marina complex.

On the other side of the frontier it is easy to pick up a rental car and explore Andalucia. The championship golf courses, and prestigious polo of Sotogrande, and the glorious beaches of Andalusia’s unspoilt Atlantic coast  are all within 30-45 minutes’ drive.

Business and Pleasure

Internationally, Gibraltar is regarded as an important business centre, with an economy that certainly punches above its weight, thanks to online gaming, offshore finance, and maritime services. Yet visitors are not only business travellers. Gibraltar is also a popular destination for tourism, where travellers can start or end a Mediterranean vacation. In addition, its popular with visitors from Spain looking for a unique short-break get-away that combines tax-free shopping; a generous choice of restaurant and bars; history and culture; as well as outdoor activities.

Exploring the Rock

Gibraltar is of course renowned for the Rock, the impressive limestone ridge that defines the identity of Gibraltar. I was already familiar with the shops of the British style main street, so to discover something new, I was really looking forward to taking the vintage cable car to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

Here we hiked, meeting some of the mischievous macaque monkeys, known locally as Barbary Apes; took in the views from the new glass ‘SkyWalk’; and a stroll cross the Windsor Suspension Bridge. There are UNESCO caves, as well as tunnels dating back to the second world war. It all makes for a very interesting day out.

Information

Sunborn Gibraltar 5-Star Yacht Hotel & Casino Resort 35 Ocean Village Promenade Gibraltar, GX11 1AA Gibraltar

Tel: +350 2001 6000 Website: www.sunborngibraltar.com

Andrew Forbes

Andrew is a Marketing Communications consultant, working within the wellness, travel & lifestyle sectors. His track record in PR, marketing and branding spans 30 years. He writes regularly on international wellness, travel, and lifestyle themes with a particular passion for the Mediterranean and the Americas. Originally from the UK, Andrew Forbes has lived in the US and France but now calls southern Spain his home, where he is a specialist in hospitality marketing and content, as well as a Contributing Editor for Spain’s leading English language newspaper. www.andrewforbes.com

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Organising a group trip with your team, friends or party but don’t have a vehicle to fit them all? We will cater to your needs. No matter how big or small the group, we can offer transfers in Gibraltar and to and from Spain and Morocco. We can plan your group movements and offer the best transfer solutions.

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• Sunborn Gibraltar: what the first five-star superyacht hotel looks like a decade on

By upanella | 18 September, 2023 | 0 comments

Evening Standard

The Escapist, Radikha Aligh | 8th August 2023

W ith 300 days of sunshine,  Gibraltar  is a no-brainer when considering a sunny weekend escape. Strategically located at the entrance to the  Mediterranean Sea , right next to  Spain , this tiny British outpost is brimming with history, nature and diverse culture.

As well as a charming old town and the iconic rock, Gibraltar is also a sought after destination for yachters, thanks largely to its VAT-free status. Back in 2013, Sunborn made headlines when its 465-foot purpose-built yacht became the first five-star superyacht hotel in the world to take permanent residence on the sun-soaked overseas territory. A decade on, with Sunborn London under its belt and others in the pipeline, we went along to see whether the floating hotel concept still has appeal.

Docked in the busy  Ocean Village Marina , Sunborn has unparallelled views of the prominent limestone Rock of Gibraltar on one side and bobbing yachts on the other. Most of “Gibs”, as locals call it, is accessible on foot. Grand Casemates Square and the main shopping street are a 10-minute walk away, and the route to the airport, which requires you to cross an actual runway, takes no more than 15 minutes.

Guests enter the hotel through a covered pathway laid with a red carpet. Inside, crystal disco ball chandeliers, bright neon lights and a grand stairway await with a spacious reception area plastered in marble. Bling and glamour  travel  across the hotel, where shades of beige and white contrast with brown and red in the suites and purple in the restaurants.

Sunborn combines the classic cruise ship design with modern designer hotel vibes. The corridors to the rooms are dark, decked out in deep tones of brown wood; while the common areas are bright and flooded with light. Glass cabinets advertising the region’s speciality gin called  Spirit of the Rock  and Sunborn’s merchandise dress the area around the elevators.

There are 189 rooms and suites, including six one-bedroom penthouse suites and two apartment suites boasting two rooms. Almost all rooms have a balcony or terrace facing the sea or the Rock. Our suite had a large living space and a bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that opened to a wide balcony with sun loungers, a breakfast table and a sofa overlooking the majestic Rock of Gibraltar. The flamboyance carries through to the bathroom, which is clad in marble and glimmering gold mosaic tiles. From lights to curtains, everything here operates at a press of a button.

If you’re in Gibs to relax, perhaps opt for rooms on the ocean side rather than ones facing the marina, as it tends to get too loud and very noisy, especially over the weekends.

Food & drink on Sunborn

Barbary Lounge  on the top deck is where the breakfast buffet is laid out first thing in the morning. The place transforms into an all-day eatery presenting a menu that marries flavours and spices from the Mediterranean and North Africa. Moorish design flows through the interiors with light drapey curtains, floor lamps and patterned carpet. Evenings at Barbary are brought to life by live musicians and DJs entertaining you while you tuck into some smoked aubergine and freshly caught fish.

On the first floor,  La Sala  is a standout. With plush interiors dressed in silver velvet chairs, the restaurant serves tapas-style food with an Asian and Latin twist. The presentation is immaculate, with flavour combinations that will make you want to try the whole menu. I’d normally pick a star dish, but everything from the gyozas to the salmon gravlax cured in beetroot and sake to our churros for dessert was on point. Pair your dinner with punchy cocktails or a bottle of wine.

The hotel has a couple of bars: Aqua and Sapphire. The former is a casual outdoor space by the pool surrounded by sun loungers, perfect for cooling off the hot Med sun. Sapphire has a more formal indoor vibe, ideal for coffee or afternoon tea.

Facilities on Sunborn

Watch the sun slowly disappear behind much tinier yachts from Sunborn’s top-floor deck. On the other side of the viewing platform are the infinity pool and Aqua bar overlooking glass buildings and a vibrant marina where the party continues until early morning.

No holiday is complete without a spa treatment that allows you to switch off and unwind completely – especially after a climb up the Rock.  Infinity Spa  offers a selection of anti-ageing facial treatments, relaxing massages, wraps and day-long spa rituals using Elemis and Janssen products. Spend a leisurely afternoon getting a couple’s session with champagne in hand.

The liveliest spots in Gibraltar are quite literally at your doorstep when living at Sunborn. On the ground floor of the property is a casino that is home to 15 jackpot machines, electronic and pinball roulette. The venue also hosts regular poker tournaments and has a VIP area for privacy.

Extracurricular

It might not seem large, but Gibraltar has plenty of interesting activities to fill your days and evening, from hiking and diving to wildlife watching and all-night partying.

The main landmark is the Rock of Gibraltar, a 1,398-foot-high limestone monolith formed over millions of years through sedimentation and tectonic processes. Visitors can take a cable car to the top for 360-degree views of Gibraltar, drive up or hike, making a pit stop at  St. Michael’s Cave , where a display of impressive stalagmites and stalactites come to life with a light and sound show. It’s also a natural auditorium for music concerts and events.

Despite its urban surroundings, the Rock is home to diverse plant and animal species. One of the most notable inhabitants is the Barbary macaque, Europe’s only wild monkey population. The flower Gibraltar candytuft is native to the upper section of the Rock and is the only place in Europe where it grows in the wild.

Gibraltar is also famous for its duty-free shopping, much of which is based on Main Street just off the bustling square. While there, make your way to the  Garrison Library  and the  Gibraltar Museum . This quaint museum, located in Bomb House Lane, covers everything from history and culture to archaeological finds and excavations dating back to the 1950s.

Away from land, its waters are home to several species of  dolphins  that come here to feed and reproduce. Visitors don’t have to go far from the coast to see hundreds swimming under the boat, riding the waves and being playful. The common bottlenose dolphin is the most well known and frequently spotted species.

Best for…

Anyone looking for a long weekend getaway in the hustle and bustle of Gibraltar. Party lovers only need to head outside to access some of the best nightclubs in Gibs, and there are plenty of culinary options too, from Indian to Irish. For families, there is the option of heading to the beach or just relaxing on the sun decks.

Booking details

British Airways  and  easyJet  operate regular flights from London Luton, Gatwick and Heathrow.

Rooms at Sunborn Gibraltar start from £185, with all-inclusive options from £299 per couple, per night. To book, visit  sunborngibraltar.com

For more on what to see and do in Gibraltar, visit  visitgibraltar.gi

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