Some of the world’s biggest hotel brands are coming up with plans that are sure to stun even the most seasoned of travellers.
First, they made villas that looked like they were floating on water off islands in Asia, but now they’re taking these to new heights – or depths. In recent years, underwater hotel rooms have taken over the resort world. This next big thing in the industry allows guests a front-row view into the stunning scenes that take place under the sea.
The idea is still up and coming, but a lucky few places have already put the plans into place. Here are the world’s coolest underwater hotels so far.
Atlantis the Palm in Dubai – the underwater suites at Atlantis provide some of the most breathtaking scenes in the world. Sitting under the Arabian Sea, these rooms allow you to sleep with the fishes – in a good way. It’ll set you back about $5,000 a night to do so though. Choose from two suites, both of which have luxurious lounges, spa bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Manta Resort on Pemba Island, Tanzania – the Swedish-designed structure floats above a lively sector of the Indian Ocean where tonnes of coral reef fish swim. Occupants have seen squids and octopus attach themselves to the 360 degree windows, and with coral already starting to build on the anchor line more animals are surely on the way. This floating, double room costs $1,500 a night.
Utter Inn in Västerås, Sweden – Europe’s most famous underwater hotel room is anchored in Lake Mälaren. The small house sleeps two and runs for $1,750 a night. The windows looking out into the water don’t offer stunning views of coral reefs or exotic fish, but you may see some perch.
Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore – these two-story townhouse-style rooms come with a view of 40,000 marine life creatures. The top floor of these 11 suites are a normal, sea level living area with an outdoor patio, while the lower level is fully underwater, on a secluded side of the world’s largest aquarium. You can see the sights, which are worth over $2,000 a night, from the bed or an in-floor Jacuzzi right in front of the window.
Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida – while this may not be the fanciest underwater hotel to make the list, it’s certainly unique. The two rooms are completely submerged underwater, meaning guests have to scuba dive to get there. Once you’ve made your way to your $800 a night room for two, you’ll get Jules’ famous underwater pizza delivery!
Lovers Deep Submarine – the Mile High Club was once the most exclusive “club” in the world. Nowadays it’s The Mile Low Club that everyone’s itching to be in. The only place you can achieve that bucket list item? The Lovers Deep submarine, which can be moored at a destination of your choosing and costs a pretty penny. It’s the most expensive underwater room available ringing in at $274,694 a night.
Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi in Maldives – this luxury hotel offers several villas and hotel rooms that sit atop the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Many rooms, some of which cost upwards of $6,000 a night, have glass bottom floors, but for the true underwater experience you’ll have to book time in the LIME Spa. Guests enjoy massages as well as manicures and pedicures while looking out into coral reefs.
Hilton’s Conrad Maldives on Rangali Island – you may not be able to sleep underwater at this hotel, but you can dine underwater. The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which lies about 16 feet under water, serves contemporary European cuisine to their hotel guests. They serve lunch and dinner, but there are only seven tables available, making the $300 meal one of the most exclusive dining experiences in the world.