The Sunborn Yacht: Holiday Adventures in Gibraltar

By David Powell

At first glance, the sleek luxury Sunborn superyacht, moored in Gibraltar’s Ocean Village Marina, looks poised to set sail at any moment. But yet this five-star floating hotel remains permanently anchored, offering all the indulgence and escapism of a cruise without ever leaving port.

I recently spent a few days onboard with my wife and enjoyed every minute! After flying to the area and after a quick transfer from Gibraltar’s airport, we were quickly checked in and offered a welcome drink of Cavaor fruit juice before being shown to our room.

Onboard Facilities:

The interiors of the Sunborn are elegant and contemporary, with polished surfaces, ambient lighting and a subtle nautical design. Service reflected the hotel’s 5-star status, with friendly welcoming staff. This super yacht offers around 190 rooms and suites, each designed to maximise both comfort and its unique waterfront setting. Entry-level rooms are far from standard, offering generous proportions, king-size beds, marble bathrooms and large windows that bring in natural light alongside marina views.

Moving up through the categories, guests will find a selection of executive rooms and junior suites that introduce additional space as well as upgraded amenities. My wife and myself were fortunate enough to stay in a Rock Suite, which was situated at the stern of the ship. The suite was impressively spacious with a separate living area and a large private balcony; as well as offering floor-to-ceiling windows frames. This offered uninterrupted views of the Marina and the Rock of Gibraltar itself, which is an ever-present, dramatic backdrop.

The bedroom was very comfortable, centred around a large, luxurious bed, while the bathroom was finished to a high specification, complete with marble detailing, a walk-in shower and a deep bathtub perfect hat was perfect for long, indulgent soaks. High-end toiletries, plush robes and meticulous housekeeping further helped to reinforce the sense of luxury.

Dining:

Dining on board was excellent with The Barbary Restaurant being a highlight as it is based on the top deck; serving as the yacht’s main dining and breakfast venue as it offers modern European cuisine in an elegant setting. The emphasis is on quality ingredients and refined presentation with large windows ensuring that the Marina remains part of the experience with every meal. On the first night dinner was enjoyed at an alternative venue, the Gastrobar. This was casual, sociable and perfect with a wide menu that featured genuine classic dishes all in a super setting.

Above deck, the relaxing, poolside Aqua Bar is the social heart of the yacht. By day, it offers a tranquil setting for drinks under the Mediterranean sun; whilst by night, it becomes a lively yet sophisticated venue that was popular with both guests and locals. The views are a constant highlight, particularly at sunset.

Spa & Fitness:

The Sunborn also features a boutique spa and a well-equipped fitness centre, ensuring that relaxation and wellbeing are fully catered for. The spa offers anti-ageing, purifying and calming facial treatments plus relaxing massages, wraps and day-long spa rituals; whilst bespoke hair and make-up packages are also available.

Trips around Gibraltar

Beyond the luxury of the yacht lies Gibraltar itself, a British Overseas Territory that is rich in history and character as it has been a self-governing territory since 1713. Whilst it has its own government and constitution, the UK is responsible for its defence and foreign affairs.

Amongst Gibraltar’s many attractions are the World War II tunnels which are an extraordinary network that is carved deep into the Rock. Expanded during the war years, they formed a hidden city capable of sustaining thousands of troops that is complete with essential facilities and strategic operations rooms. Walking through these tunnels offers a powerful insight into Gibraltar’s wartime significance with its narrow passageways opening into vast chambers that echo with history. A visit is highly recommended and should be put on itineraries where possible.

Gibraltar today is lively and cosmopolitan, its streets lined with cafés and shops that reflect a blend of British and Mediterranean influences. The famous Barbary macaques roam freely along the upper reaches of the Rock, adding a distinctive and often entertaining presence to the landscape.

From the vantage point of the Sunborn, all of this comes together seamlessly. The Marina provides a lively yet refined setting, while the Rock looms ever-present in the background. Aircraft glide dramatically in to land, adding a touch of theatre to an already unique environment.

Conclusion:

The Sunborn offers 5-star hotel luxury with the unmatched atmosphere of a superyacht. It offers all the comfort, service and attention to detail expected; combined with the atmosphere of life on the water Days were spent exploring Gibraltar’s rich history and Main Street.; which is the bustling, pedestrianised heart of Gibraltar that stretches 1.2 km from Casemates Square to Southport Gates, famous for tax-free shopping, numerous cafes, pubs and historical sites. Returning to the calm of the Sunborn after a day exploring felt like a real treat and ending the evening on deck or on our balcony looking out across the Marina was always a highlight.

The Sunborn Yacht may not go anywhere but that’s exactly why it works; mostly due to its relaxed and quietly memorable nature. Both my wife and myself can’t wait to stay here again in the future. More information is available by clicking this link, whilst a video of the Rock Suite can be seen via YouTube here.

PICTURED: The sleek luxury Sunborn superyacht is moored in Gibraltar’s Ocean Village Marina and offered a great location to stay during recent trip.