5 Luxe Boating Experiences at US Hotels

Sea breezes, sunset views, diving into the open ocean – there is nothing more refreshing (and luxurious) than a day on the water. Whether it’s gliding along the waterways of a city skyline or beach-hopping in a vintage yacht, a number of U.S. hotels offer new boating experiences to add to your bucket list. And these aren’t your average boat days; we’re talking one-of-a-kind vessels, exquisite dining and unique, personalized experiences. Read on for several hotels with extra-special boat excursions to book this summer. Because we could all use a reason to escape this heat – in style.

Your Fora Advisor can unlock even more special experiences for your summer trip on the water. They’ll matchmake you to a hotel that fits your style, and ensure you’re treated to VIP hotel perks along the way. Reach out to get started. 

The Mark Hotel, NYC: Sailing in the city

Image courtesy of the Mark Hotel

Nothing says VIP quite like a private boat trip along the New York Harbor – an experience made even more epic thanks to a 70-foot Herreshoff sailboat. Guests can realize their VIP moment while staying at the Mark, an Upper East Side icon beloved by celebrities and fashion folk. Now in its seventh year, the historic sailboat (one of the last in existence) escorts guests from Tribeca’s North Cove Marina, sailing past New York’s breathtaking skyline over two hours. And it gets better: cocktails and a special menu are served, courtesy of the illustrious Jean-Georges Vongerichten; or, guests are treated to caviar from Caviar Kaspia at The Mark. The vessel is available for private charters and ticketed events, accommodating up to 25 guests.

"The Mark Hotel is refined and elegant, but still cool,”  said Fora Advisor Zoe Schaeffer. “It's my go-to booking for clients with elevated taste who want the perfect home away from home uptown.” While staying at the Mark, Zoe recommends making a reservation at the hotel’s restaurant by Jean-Georges, too. “It even draws in the downtown crowd."

Fora Perks: $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast credit of $45 per person, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Related Article: Destination Debrief: New York City

The Charleston Place: Picnic boat along the coast

Sullivan's Island, off the coast of Charleston

Guests of Charleston’s beloved grand dame hotel are invited to board the Moonrise, an iconic Hinckley EP Picnic Boat that’s the only one of its kind available for charter in the city. These vessels are known for their classic lines, plush seating and timeless elegance evoking the bygone era, plus exceptional speed and quietness thanks to electric propulsion. Led by a captain, the Moonrise escorts up to six guests through Charleston’s scenic waterways for sunset, complete with bubbly and gourmet bites. Or, guests can opt for a daytime excursion to hit one of Charleston’s pristine islands for a beach day.

Fora Advisor Melanie Pink recommends opting for a suite on the hotel’s club level. “My family and I absolutely loved the experience,” she said. “[On] the club level, we enjoyed an incredible selection of food available all day long.”

(And remember, when you book with a Fora Advisor, you benefit from a room upgrade whenever possible).

Fora Reserve Perks: $100 food & beverage credit, $30 daily breakfast credit per person, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Related Article: Fora Essentials: How To Make the Most of Your Trip to Charleston

Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore: Catamaran on the Inner Harbor

Image courtesy of the Four Seasons Baltimore

Baltimore is chalk-full of iconic sites on the water – from the historic architecture of Fell’s Point to Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key famously wrote the national anthem. And the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore ups the ante on sightseeing with its two-hour private cruise on a stunning catamaran sailboat. Backed by the warm winds of Baltimore harbor, the catamaran slides through the cityscape in style, with options to embark on a daytime or nighttime sail. In the morning, guests are treated to mouthwatering brunch dishes like smoked salmon and fresh-pressed juices on ice, while evening sails enjoy excellent charcuterie and elevated bar snacks.

The Four Seasons Baltimore is a favorite of Fora Advisor Stephanie Cone, who raves that the service is consistently excellent. Plus, “its rooftop pool offers a fabulous spot to unwind while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor,” Stephanie added.

Fora Perks: When you book Four Seasons with a Fora Advisor, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

Related Article: This Not That: 7 Underrated Summer Travel Ideas to Avoid Crowds And Venture Off the Beaten Path

Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach, California: Picnic at sea

Newport Beach, California

The contemporary and elegant Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach is the perfect choice for a quintessential California experience. With its waterfront rooms and crowd-pleasing amenities (including a spa, multiple restaurants and water sports), Balboa Bay Resort also boasts an epic boat experience: a bucket-list-worthy sailboat picnic. Accommodating up to four guests, the picnic takes place on the bow of a sailboat with panoramic views of Newport Bay. The pièce de résistance is a local guitarist on board who serenades guests with acoustic tunes for an ultra-romantic evening through the harbor.

“Book it as sunset for maximum ambiance,” advised Fora Advisor Nadia Bess.

Fora Reserve Perks: $100 food & beverage credit, $25 daily breakfast credit per person, shuttle service within two miles of the property, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Related Article: Destination Debrief: California Coast Road Trip

Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia: Luxury on the Delaware River

Philadelphia's skyline

The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia offers guests a dose of nautical nostalgia while aboard a Chris Craft wooden boat, with its mid-century design and exquisite craftsmanship. Accommodating up to six guests, the boat glides along the Delaware River for daytime or sunset cruises, complete with epic views of Philly’s skyline. Plus, guests are treated to a five-star picnic from the city’s coveted Vernick Fish restaurant, complete with seafood wine pairings, wild-caught fish and a gift bag with a hat and wine tote. 

Fora Perks: When you book Four Seasons with a Fora Advisor, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

No matter where you’re traveling this summer, your Fora Advisor can curate an extra-special boat experience. Connect with a Fora Advisor to plan your ideal vacation complete with your perfect hotel and incredible travel perks.