Fingal

Hotel review

MV Fingal is a retired Northern Lighthouse Board Tender which has been given a £5 million maritime makeover by the Pedley Group and is now a brilliant 23-cabin hotel and ‘exclusive use’ venue – Scotland’s first luxury floating hotel. Part of the Royal Yacht Britannia trust, Fingal has permanently anchored a safe distance to shore in Historic Port of Leith in Edinburgh. No Quells required. Her Royal sister ship is moored close by. The moment you embark up the red-carpeted gangway a wonderful teak-decked floating world awaits. Opulence and the ‘story’ are the building blocks of Fingal’s restoration. The stamp of the ship’s history is a recurring motif throughout the interior, from the excellent Trident logo, to the characteristic diamond patterning drawn from lighthouse lamps which appears on walls, chair backs and carpets. The cylindrical glass lift amidships (custom designed for the ship) resembles the top of a lighthouse. There are no cramped bilge-smelling quarters or pump-action loos here. The ensuite cabins are luxurious, romantic and wonderful, individually configured to follow the tilts, slants and camber of the ship. Tarbat Ness, Muckle Flugga, Bell Rock, Ardnamurchan - each cabin is named after one of the Stevenson lighthouses which protected shipping from the wild Scottish shoreline, and were supplied by Fingal in her days of service. Other onboard features include original porthole windows, lovely Scottish Lambswool throws and cushions designed by Araminta Campbell in the Fingal Weave inspired by the changing colours of the sea and reflective lighthouse beams, and beautiful leather work in seafood green (a traditional colour found in ship’s engine rooms). The huge comfy Hypnos beds (bunks no more) have suede headboards embossed with the specific sea chart and lighthouse pertaining to your room. Noble Isle smellies have been selected for their Scottish-ness: Whisky & Water shower gel is surprisingly fragrant! And these are just some of the well-considered design details. There are beautifully veneered surfaces throughout the ship and the mirrored ceiling in the bar and restaurant area creates a rippling watery effect. All the cabins have doors opening onto the teak walkways leading to the spacious aft deck, and the magnificent Skerrymore Suite has its own private foredeck. Enjoy the best of Scotland’s larder in the restaurant on the main deck, or have a ‘run ashore’ to try the many fun and atmospheric pubs and restaurants in the up and coming Leith area of Edinburgh, many within 10 minutes walking distance. Hugely recommended as a fun and different hotel experience. Ramp and lift access gives reasonable accessibility, but this is perhaps a less suitable choice for young families.

Caroline Townsend Review published: 08/02/2019