We were recently offered the opportunity to stay on a Horizon 1 boat from Le Boat at Chertsey Marina. While unfortunately a late season visit and an abundance of rain meant we couldn’t leave the marina to cruise the Thames during our trip, just staying on the boat was an experience in itself, offering a unique blend of modern luxury and the soothing ambience of life on the water.
About the boat
Le Boat’s Horizon 1 is part of its premium range of vessels, known for its contemporary design and spacious upper deck. Stepping aboard, the first thing that struck me was the sense of space. Unlike the traditional narrowboats found on the waterways of the UK, the Horizon 1 feels roomy, with two bedrooms and an open-plan layout that makes moving around a breeze. The main saloon, with its large windows, allows sunlight to pour in, giving the whole area a bright and airy feel. The fully equipped kitchen, or galley, was surprisingly functional, with everything you’d need to prepare a meal including a gas stove, fridge, and even a microwave. It felt just like a floating apartment.
But the real highlight of the Horizon 1 is the outside living space. The upper deck is a game-changer. With its sunbathing area (if the UK weather allows), dining table, and grill, this space became the heart of our stay. Whether we were sipping coffee in the morning mist or enjoying a BBQ under the stars, this deck added a little bit of luxury to our stay. The 360-degree views from up there added to the allure – it’s a perfect place to relax and watch the world, or the swans, go by.
A floating hotel close to London
While we weren’t able to get out on the water, the location of Le Boat in Chertsey meant we were well placed for exploring some of the sites of UK. We used our boat like a hotel room and ventured out each day to the see the museums of London, wander around the collegiate streets of Oxford, see the castle at Windsor and enjoy the scenic beauty of Surrey.
At night, aboard the Horizon 1, we enjoyed the simple pleasure of being on the water in such a thoughtfully designed boat. From the smart layout to the luxurious touches, staying aboard the Horizon 1 felt like a retreat, an experience that went beyond mere accommodation. The boat became our floating home, a place where comfort, style, and the serenity of the river met perfectly.