Imagine waking up to the serene view of the Indian Ocean, living atop crystal-clear waters, and sleeping under a blanket of stars. Welcome to our experience in the Maldives’ first Floating Hotel.
Here, each moment is a chance to reconnect with nature and create unforgettable memories. The sun shines brightly against the sparkling azure sea while the salty sea breeze whispers tales of adventure and relaxation.
With this article, we will take you on a journey through two days in this floating hotel, first of its kind situated in Baa Atoll. We’ll touch upon its history, explore the setup, and delve into the numerous activities that you can enjoy.
I should note at the outset that the floating hotel is not yet ready to welcome visitors. It is currently undergoing final adjustments and preparations. I will provide an update when the hotel is ready to accept reservations
2. Floating Accommodation Concept in the Maldives
The idea of floating accommodation, or a full-fledged floating city, has received serious attention in both government policy dialogues and private investment circles. A recent notable example was a floating city initiative that was anticipated to be built as a practical solution to the urgent problem of sea-level rise.
2.1 Water Villas
Over-water bungalows, a distinctive type of accommodation deeply ingrained in traditional Maldivian building practices, have come to epitomize the quintessential tropical vacation. They also serve as an emblem of the country’s thriving tourism industry.
These lodgings are usually erected on stilts over the waters of the Lagoon, granting residents the privilege of direct ocean access right from their accommodation.
Generally, these over-water bungalows are connected to the resort island and furnished with extravagant amenities such as private decks, transparent floor sections for observing marine life, al fresco showers, or infinity pools. Read my article on over-water bungalows.
2.2 Liveaboard
A liveaboard is essentially a floating hotel in a vessel, offering you the comfort and luxury of a top-notch resort with the added advantage of mobility.
These vessels range from simple dive boats to luxurious yachts, allowing you to cruise through the tranquil waters of the Maldives, hopping between the enchanting islands at your leisure. Read my article on the liveaboard experience in the Maldives.
2.3 Floating Hotel
A floating hotel is a standalone accommodation securely anchored to the seabed by stilts, enabling it to sway gently with the rhythm of the ocean waves. This method, traditionally used by Maldivian fishermen to moor their boats near the islands, ensures stability amid the constant ebb and flow of the sea.
Surrounding coral reefs serve as natural wave breakers, further stabilizing the dwelling and mitigating the possibility of seasickness for the occupants.
3. Reflecting on our experience in the first Floating Hotel
As we approach the floating hotel amidst the vast expanse of the Lagoon, we are struck by a serene spectacle of nature. Azure waters mirror the boundless sky, punctuated by clusters of coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. The surrounding reef is a kaleidoscope of colors, a hidden world beneath the crystal clear surface, appearing almost ethereal in the soft light.
Suspended in the heart of this tranquil beauty is the floating hotel; its silhouette gracefully echoes on the water’s surface. This secluded refuge seems to exist in harmonious dialogue with the ocean, offering a serene encounter with nature’s raw majesty.
3.1 Exploring the Hotel
The floating hotel provides a sprawling dining and living area situated on the sea floor, presenting ample room for guests to converse and dine amidst the captivating setting. Outfitted with a bar and diving center (work still in progress), this space acts as a social hub, seamlessly fusing experiences on offer with interior settings.
Ascending the circular staircase to the first floor, you’ll find eight bedrooms, each designed to offer a unique ambiance. These rooms beckon you to retreat after a day filled with adventure, inviting you to surrender to the soothing rhythm of the gently lapping waves.
Venturing up to the second floor, the house unveils a sumptuous viewing and relaxation deck. From this vantage point, guests can marvel at the ceaselessly evolving spectacle of the sky.
As daylight gives way to dusk, as hues of orange, pink, and purple amalgamate into a hypnotic palette, casting an incandescent glow over the sea’s glimmering surface. This view, coupled with the soothing orchestration of the waves, creates a tranquil atmosphere, signaling the perfect moment to relax and ponder the boundless allure of the ocean.
3.2 Sunset Viewing on the Deck
There is something deeply calming about watching the sun sink into the horizon, and your floating hotel offers a front-row seat to this daily spectacle. So, take a moment to simply sit on your deck, perhaps with a drink in hand, and watch as the sun begins its graceful descent.
The sky, painted with brilliant hues of orange, red, and purple, reflects off the ocean, making it seem as if the sea and sky are one. Witnessing this magical event from the tranquility of your floating hotel is a moment of pure serenity, a memory to hold on to.
3.3 Night-time Relaxation and Stargazing
After dinner, it’s time to retreat to your private deck for some relaxation. Here, far from the glaring lights, the night sky reveals its true splendor. Take a moment to lie back on your loungers and gaze at the canopy of stars overhead. The absence of light pollution in the Maldives allows for a magnificent display of the cosmos, making stargazing a mesmerizing experience.
In this tranquil setting, you can see constellations, shooting stars, and even the Milky Way on a clear night. Use a stargazing app to identify different celestial bodies or simply appreciate the universe’s grandeur.
As the night deepens, the calming rhythm of the waves lulls you into a peaceful state, preparing you for a restful sleep. You can choose to sleep under the stars or retiring to you very own bed. In either case, the gentle sway of your floating hotel and the subtle symphony of the ocean create the perfect lullaby.
As you lay, look out for starts or starlit sea, and reflect on the day’s events. Then, drift off to sleep with the knowledge that you’ll wake up to another day in paradise.
From witnessing the mesmerizing sunset to indulging in a luxurious dinner, from stargazing to winding down for the night, each activity lends itself to a perfect end to my first day in the floating hotel.
3.4 Waking Up in the Middle of the Ocean
The most magical part of staying in a floating hotel is surely the morning view that greets you as soon as you wake up. While you enjoy your coffee, the ocean spreads as far as the eye can see, with the horizon being kissed by the morning sun.
The vision of the sunrise, with its golden hues mirrored on the serene waters, etches a permanent imprint in your memory, evolving into a treasured experience to be cherished for a lifetime. As the sun ascends higher, the symphony of the sea seizes the spotlight. Let yourself be lulled by the soothing sounds of the water gently lapping against the pillars of your house, while beneath the crystalline surface, lively reef fish dart around, radiating an infectious exuberance. This profound bond with nature, experienced from the very first moment of waking, sets a harmonious rhythm for the rest of the day.
3.5 Morning Yoga on the Deck
What better way to start your day than by connecting with nature and finding your inner peace with a yoga session on your private deck? The tranquility of the morning provides a perfect backdrop for some meditative stretching. Feel the cool sea breeze against your skin as you unroll your yoga mat on the deck. As you move through the sun salutations, allow the warmth of the first light to fill you with energy and positivity.
The beauty of practicing yoga here lies in the natural elements that contribute to your sense of calm. The rhythm of the ocean waves enhances your breathing exercises, the endless view of the sea aids your focus, and the occasional calling of the seabirds our sound from over excited fish provides a soothing soundtrack for your session. With every pose, you become more attuned to the environment, making your yoga practice a truly immersive experience.
After your yoga session, take a few moments to meditate, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. As you focus on the rhythmic sound of the waves, allow your thoughts to ebb and flow with the tide, releasing any residual stress or tension.
3.6 Breakfast with a View
After re-energizing your body with yoga, it’s time to nourish it with a wholesome breakfast. Nothing compares to enjoying a traditional Maldivian breakfast or your cake with Asian flavor, while gazing at the limitless blue sea right from your dining room.
While you enjoy your breakfast, watch as the Maldives comes alive with activity. See the local fishermen venture out to sea in their traditional dhonis, observe the seabirds as they embark on their morning hunt, and notice how the water sparkles under the morning sun.
4. Leisure Activities: Things to Do
Spending a day in a floating hotel in the Maldives is not just about the house, but the exciting activities you can engage in. The Maldives is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered, and your floating hotel is your launch pad to this world of possibilities. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a marine life lover, or a wellness aficionado, you’ll find a variety of activities to suit your preferences.
4.1 Water Sports
From snorkeling to paddle boarding, water sports are an exhilarating way to engage with the warm, clear waters of the Maldives.
Snorkeling is a must-try activity. With your snorkeling gear, dive into the clear turquoise waters surrounding your floating hotel. The Maldives is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, and even the shallow waters around your house will offer you a glimpse of this underwater world. From colorful reef fish to elegant manta rays, you never know what you might encounter on your snorkeling adventure.
Kayaking is another wonderful activity. This relaxing sport not only gives you a full-body workout but also allows you to explore the pristine waters around your floating hotel at your own pace.
4.2 Island hopping
After snorkeling and kayaking, it is time to visit a nearby sandbank or island for a short stroll and experience the beach. For each time, exploring an uninhabited Maldivian island was surreal. The untouched, pristine beauty of the white sands painted an ethereal landscape. Each footprint I etched on the untouched beach seemed to whisper tales of tranquility.
Collecting seashells, observing skittish crabs, and walking barefoot in the warm, soft sand, I experienced an overwhelming sense of peace, a respite from day’s hustle. A single day’s exploration imprinted lasting impressions of nature’s sublime sanctuary.
4.3 Exploring the Underwater World
The Maldives boasts a rich marine biodiversity, which you can explore through activities such as scuba diving. Scuba diving in the Maldives is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with an array of marine life.
Experienced instructors can guide you through the stunning underwater landscapes filled with vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine species. Read my article on why dice in the Maldives.
5. Reflecting on the Journey
Before leaving take a moment to reminisce about your journey—from the first rays of sunrise piercing through your window, the morning dip in the ocean, to the thrill of the water sports and the discovery of the vibrant marine life beneath the waves. Recount the enchanting sunset, the time under the stars, and the nocturnal adventures.
As you reflect, we realize that each moment was not just an activity, but an engagement with nature and culture. The Maldives offered you a space not just to see but to participate—to become a part of the island nation’s story and create your own within it.
5.1. Frequently Asked Questions about Staying in a Floating Hotel in the Maldives
After a detailed exploration of few days spent in a floating hotel in the Maldives, you might still have a few questions about this unique experience. To help you plan your perfect Maldivian getaway, let’s address some common queries.
What is the best time to visit the Maldives?
The Maldives boasts a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the dry season, from November to April, is often considered the best time to visit. During these months, the weather is sunny, the seas are calm, and visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving. Remember, however, that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more visitors. Read my article on this topic.
What should I pack for my trip?
Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, swimsuits, a sun hat, and sunglasses for the tropical climate. Don’t forget a good sunscreen and aloe vera for sun protection. Include casual dinner attire if you plan to enjoy fine dining. Also, pack snorkeling gear if you prefer using your own. Read my article on this topic.
Is it safe to swim around the floating hotel?
Absolutely. The waters around the floating hotels are typically calm and safe for swimming. However, remember to respect the marine life and refrain from touching any creatures or corals. Always swim with a buddy, especially at night.
What type of food can I expect?
The Maldives has a rich culinary tradition, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, coconut, and spices. However, the floating hotel may not have all the option available in a resort.
Are the Maldives sustainable for tourism?
Sustainability is a core principle of Maldivian tourism. Most resorts, including the floating hotel, adheres to strict environmental policies. They strive to limit their impact on the environment through practices such as waste management, energy conservation, and protection of marine life.
How do I get to the floating hotel from Male airport?
Floating hotel is not yet ready for tourists. Its still going through final adjustments and preparations. Transfers from Male airport to the floating hotel can be arranged by the house operator. You will be transported by speedboat.
