Luxury floating hotel proposed for Vancouver, likely sailing towards public hearing

A planned floating hotel could be a dramatic addition to the Vancouver waterfront—and the proposal is one step closer to reality.

A proposed floating luxury hotel in Vancouver is heading back to city council next week, where it’s expected to be referred to a public hearing.

The development, called Sunborn Vancouver, would see a six-storey hotel shaped like a yacht docked in Coal Harbour, and part of the city’s waterfront.

The initial design included 250 suites and a restaurant, but a 130-metre public pier has now been added.

The sea-level walkway would include gardens, seating areas, a café and spa.

• Related: 250-room floating hotel proposed for Vancouver waterfront

The project is far from a done deal, but Vancouver city councillor Peter Meiszner says the proposal reflects a significant need for more visitor accommodation.

“Vancouver needs to build 10,000 new hotel rooms by 2050, and if we don’t, we’re missing out on hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity, conferences and tourism,” said Meiszner.

In the works since before the COVID-19 pandemic, the floating resort would be constructed offshore, then installed near the iconic Raindrop.

It draws inspiration from similar floating hotels developed by Sunborn International Plc.

City officials told CTV News the proposal isn’t within current city development rules, which is one reason it is likely being sent to a public hearing.

“This particular floating hotel proposal hasn’t been done effectively before. It’s outside of policy,” said Meiszner.

The latest considerations are expected to go before council on Tuesday.