A new floating hotel to launch in Scotland

800 445 Hamish Kilburn
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A new floating hotel, which will be permanently berthed in Scotland, is about to launch with interiors envisioned by well-known hotel designer…

With Hotel Designs this month investigating the ever-changing world of hotel concepts, the idea of ‘floating hotels’ is a hot topic at the moment with many hotel designers extending their services to include cruise ship design. Launching in Autumn 2018, a new £5 million development is set to transform Scotland’s hotel scene. Fingal, a former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, begins an exciting new chapter offering beautiful cabins, dining and entertaining space, set in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith.

The development is being carried out by the Pedley Group. Co-founder Alan Pedley has been responsible for manufacturing and installing more than 180,000 hotel rooms in 61 countries for the world’s leading hotel groups including IHG, Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott.

Developed by The Royal Yacht Britannia’s trading company, Royal Yacht Enterprises, Fingal’s 23 luxury cabins are each named after Stevenson lighthouses, inspired by her rich maritime heritage. Guests can choose from staying in a private deck, a duplex cabin with comfortable living space or the stunning Skerryvore Suite with extensive outdoor space to relax and entertain.

Carefully considered design offers high specifications of craftmanship and finish, with nautical touches and polished woods. Sumptuous Scottish leathers and the finest linens are in colour palates inspired by Fingal’s journey from land and sea.

“Fingal is like no other in Scotland,” said head of hospitality & events, Andrew Thomson. “It is a privilege to take this historic ship and create a new, exciting and world-class addition to the Scottish tourism landscape. The craftsmanship and design, inspired by Fingal’s provenance and heritage, coupled with the best of Scotland’s larder will ensure our guests’ experience on Fingal is truly memorable.”

A stylish yet relaxed restaurant with banquette seating offers a light menu celebrating the best of Scotland’s larder, from coast to field. Raise a glass at the welcoming Moët Hennessy Champagne bar or enjoy a cocktail from the creative menu.  Spacious outdoor decks provide a blend of private and public spaces to bask in the quayside setting or sit out under the stars.

Hosting up to 80 guests, Fingal is ideal for exclusive hire, private parties, weddings and corporate events. A spectacular ballroom reached by a sweeping staircase is nestled uniquely in the bow of the ship and flooded in light by a movable skylight above.

Permanently berthed in Edinburgh’s waterfront hotspot of Leith, guests will be ideally situated to access the best the city has to offer. Award-winning restaurants, bars, artisan boutiques and galleries are just a few minutes’ walk away. The Royal Yacht Britannia is also nearby.

 

Hamish Kilburn / 02.08.2018

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