Guntû

Japan

Combine a luxury yacht with a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and you have Guntû, a gorgeous floating hotel that navigates the serene, island-dotted waters of southwest Japan’s Seto Inland Sea. Award-winning architect Yasushi Horibe celebrates an understated Japanese design aesthetic with plenty of natural timber, large windows and clean lines. Each of the 19 wood-panelled suites comes with its own terrace, while some feature outdoor baths. For those without, there are two communal onsen-style baths on the second deck with large windows to enjoy the view.

The priority here is relaxation and letting any stresses of life simply drift away, a vibe that is heightened with a traditional massage or sauna session in the onsite spa. Head to the sushi bar or Japanese restaurant whenever you like and the onboard chef will whip up a gourmet feast according to your personal preferences. Off-boat excursions include exploring local life around the Setouchi archipelago, from observing fisherman to attending seasonal festivals. End the day with a chilled glass of champagne from the third floor deck as the sun sets.