Fingal, a luxury floating hotel in Edinburgh, offers a unique stay in a renovated lighthouse support ship. With stunning interiors, exceptional service, and a prime location, it provides a memorable experience for guests. This blog post reviews the accommodations, amenities, and overall value of staying at Fingal, highlighting its rich history and nautical charm.
Today, we delve into the enchanting experience of staying at Fingal, a luxury boutique hotel located in the port of Leith, Edinburgh. This unique hotel is housed in a decommissioned lighthouse support ship, originally built in the 1960s. Join me as we explore the accommodations, amenities, and overall experience of this remarkable floating hotel.
Fingal was constructed in 1963 as a lighthouse support ship for the Northern Lighthouse Board, tasked with delivering supplies and staff to various lighthouses across Scotland. After decades of service, the ship was decommissioned in 2000 and later renamed Windsor Castle under private ownership. In 2008, the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust acquired the vessel with the vision of transforming it into a floating hotel, adding a new revenue stream to the Britannia visits.
Following a six-year negotiation and a £5 million renovation, Fingal opened its doors as one of the most luxurious floating hotels in January 2019. The ship underwent significant alterations to accommodate a banquet hall and various amenities, with stunning interiors designed by Alan Peddley and Steven Flanigan.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff at the front desk and escorted to our room, a classic duplex suite—one of only two on board. The first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the suite was surprisingly spacious and exuded luxury. The design featured a classic nautical theme with upscale materials and colors, creating a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere.
The upper level of the duplex suite included a lounge area with a comfortable sitting space, a desk, and a mini fridge stocked with purchasable treats. A welcome box of chocolates and a handwritten note added a personal touch. The closets were beautifully leather-wrapped, showcasing impressive custom millwork.
Descending the staircase led us to the bedroom and ensuite, which occupied the entire lower level. The queen-sized bed was incredibly comfortable, with premium sheets and a fluffy duvet. The ensuite bathroom featured unique curved walls that followed the ship's hull shape, creating a distinctive shower experience. The heated floors and high-quality fixtures, along with premium toiletries from Noble Isle, elevated the overall luxury of the suite.
Fingal boasts four public decks for guests to explore. The top deck features the Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar, which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea. While we didn't dine for dinner, we enjoyed cocktails and breakfast, both of which were excellent. The restaurant's design continued the nautical theme with warm wood tones and glass accents, creating a stunning dining environment.
The former bridge area has been transformed into a small conference room and private dining space, adorned with paintings and authentic logbooks from the ship's service years. Below this deck, additional guest rooms and an outdoor patio provide more relaxation options.
A glass circular elevator, ingeniously designed from the ship's exhaust casing, connects the various decks, leading to the lobby area where a modest reception desk and a banquet hall are located. The banquet hall retains many design motifs from the ship, creating an impressive space for events.
One of the most fascinating features of Fingal is the elevated glass-enclosed walkway over the former engine room. This area showcases the original machinery, meticulously restored for public viewing, allowing guests to appreciate the ship's history while enjoying their stay.
During our visit in early June, we paid £577 (approximately $782 USD) for our one-night stay in the classic duplex suite, which included breakfast and two complimentary tickets to the Royal Yacht Britannia. The pricing for rooms varies, with lower categories starting around £260 per night. Given the unique experience and luxurious accommodations, the pricing felt fair for what was offered.
In comparison to other five-star hotels in Edinburgh, Fingal's pricing is competitive. For instance, the W Edinburgh starts at around £220, while the Balmoral Hotel can be as low as £350. Fingal's unique floating experience adds a level of charm and exclusivity that sets it apart.
To evaluate Fingal, we can break down the experience into five categories, each rated out of 10:
This impressive score reflects Fingal's status as one of the best hotel experiences available, showcasing a blend of luxury, history, and exceptional service.
Fingal is a remarkable floating hotel that offers a unique and luxurious experience in Edinburgh. The attention to detail, stunning design, and rich history make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area. Whether you're looking for a memorable stay or simply a delightful dining experience, Fingal is worth considering. The surrounding area of Leith also boasts a variety of excellent restaurants and attractions, making it a hidden gem in Edinburgh. If you're intrigued by nautical history or simply seeking a unique hotel experience, Fingal should be at the top of your list.
