There are hotels, there are resorts, and then there are those rare escapes that envelope you in luxury and leave you spoilt for life. The Nautilus Maldives is one such hidden gem.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Tucked away in the heart of the Baa Atoll, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve that is home to the world-renowned Hanifaru Bay, The Nautilus Maldives seems to exist in a universe of its own. This private island hideaway is both, an exotic escape and a home away from home, thanks to its magical beauty and exceptionally intimate form of hospitality. Everyone knows your name, yet no one comes in your way. Timelines and schedules fade away, and dress codes don’t exist — on the contrary, barefoot is the ideal way to go. And if you’ve always dreamed of being on a private island, wish fulfilled. You won’t bump into a single other guest during the entirety of your stay.
All sparkling turquoise waters, sandy white beaches and swaying palm trees, the property is sure to have you professing love at first sight, but the Nautilus experience goes so much deeper than what meets the eye.
The warmest of welcomes
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
At The Nautilus Maldives, quiet luxury isn’t a passing fad; it’s a way of life. Before guests set foot on the property, the journey of the good life begins with a pre-holiday email from their assigned housemaster. From robe size and pillow type, to the name you’d like to be addressed by during your stay, every detail can be customized in advance to ensure the most comfortable of stays.
In the Nautilus world, harmony is a key aspect of every experience. Fresh out of the hustle and bustle of Male airport, the plush interiors and soothing tunes of the hotel limo come as a welcome break as the car glides over to the hotel’s airport waiting lounge. In-car wifi makes communication a breeze, and the lounge space itself is one worth bookmarking.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Unlike other Maldivian resorts, the Nautilus aesthetic steps away from predictable neutral hues and nautical themes. Instead, the property — and its lounge, which gives guests a first glimpse into its signature decor style — is a celebration of hues reminiscent of island life. Sandy whites blend with tropical orange tones, bold blues pop against light wooden furniture, and a spectrum of sea greens come to life on furniture and wall art. Textured carpets seemingly inspired by coral highlight the magic of the marine world, while macramé wall art and beaded lampshades bring in a boho element. Post a fragrant cold towel and sparkling iced tea, guests are free to explore the lounge’s snack menu, coffee bar, underwater-themed playroom and chess corners. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, it’s time to really start the journey.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
A short seaplane ride followed by a quick lift in the hotel’s private yacht leads to the property itself. The Nautilus family stands at the port to greet guests personally, with each member knowing their guests’ names. The attention to detail and feeling of comfort comes as a pleasant surprise, and it’s soon time for a quick buggy ride to your home for the next few days.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Given the small scale of the island, it takes just a few minutes to understand the layout of The Nautilus. There’s no missing its natural beauty, yes, but what really stands out is the lush greenery that engulfs the space. Canopies come alive with bird songs and flowers bloom in shades of red, canary yellow and buttery white. While the beach houses sit on the actual island, the ocean houses are located in the water in a palm arrangement, each frond leading to a separate residence.
Pro tip: Before arrival, feel free to let your house master know if you plan on marking any special occasion during your visit, and they’ll arrange for a personalized experience. A lantern lit beachside meal or movie night under the stars, perhaps?
Luxury living
Keeping that free-spirited, bohemian aesthetic at the forefront, each of the 26 beach and ocean houses at The Nautilus burst with color. At first glance, these are spaces that instantly evoke a feeling of joy. There’s no place for pristine palettes and too-perfect-to-touch interiors. Instead, a new level of luxury unfolds with every step, blending vibrant, almost rustic decor with a very well curated, polished aesthetic.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Beautifully patterned wooden floors are adorned with multicolored carpets, impossibly high domed ceilings create a feeling of endless space, and large windows (along with a floor cut-out revealing cerulean waters underneath) make sure to bring all the beauty of the outdoors in. While some houses follow the colors of the sea, others channel cheery energy in shades of yellow and orange. Ready to welcome everyone from honeymooners to large families, a range of house sizes ensure that everyone finds their perfect match — but with each house split into four dedicated spaces (living room, bedroom, bathroom, and poolside), even the smallest residences feel spacious.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
After a swift in-room check-in process, the house master takes guests through their residence. By your private pool, you’ll find snorkeling gear in your pre-mentioned size. You’ll also find your pool set to the exact temperature you’d asked for before boarding your flight. At The Nautilus, no ask is too outlandish, and no detail too small. Need a treadmill by your bedside? The house master will get it done. Planning on having breakfast at 9pm? Your wish is their command.
Pro tip: Make sure to check your snack bar each evening. The Nautilus staff loves to leave guests healthy treats and refreshing juice shots, along with handwritten notes from the house master.
A world of culinary delights
Home to three restaurants, the hotel offers guests a wide range of culinary options, all whipped up by world-class chefs, keeping in mind each guest’s dietary restrictions, no less. Propped up in the middle of the ocean, Zeytoun offers up Mediterranean flavors (ask for the round two-seater tables suspended over the ocean like a separate flower petal for a truly exceptional view). Surrounded by lush foliage, Ocaso celebrates Japanese, Mexican and Peruvian cuisines.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Facing the beach under sunny skies, Thyme serves as an all-day hub with cuisines from across the globe. But while other restaurants remain dedicated to their niche, these spots do things a little differently. At The Nautilus, restaurant menus serve more as suggestions, inspiring one to bounce ideas off the chef to create new, inspiring dishes. Guests are welcome to go off-menu to create the perfect personalized meal. Ask for any dish you like — on menu or not — and enjoy it at any restaurant you choose. Time is but a construct. Leave the rules at the door and eat only when you’re hungry — 24/7 service means there are no open or closing times for the restaurants.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Along with its three restaurants, the hotel also hosts a picturesque sunset hour daily at Naiboli Pool Bar. Ask your server to whip up a surprise drink for you — you won’t be disappointed.
No matter what hour you decide to do it, make sure you don’t leave The Nautilus without experiencing the hotel’s in-room floating breakfast. Beautifully arranged on a tray of exotic blooms, the breakfast spread (customized to your choice, of course), is served in your private pool and tastes just as good as it looks. Among the many options on the menu are fresh açai bowls, eggs done any way you like, and fluffy pancakes, to name a few.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Pro tip: Love starting your meals with a sparkling water or bread basket? Let the Nautilus team know at your first sitting, and they’ll make sure all the other restaurants are informed of your preferences for the rest of your stay.
Exploring island life
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Don’t be fooled by the clear waters — there’s immense depth to the nature surrounding the property. Following this thought process, guests are invited to learn about the gorgeous marine life that surrounds them during their stay. The Nautilus snorkeling sessions are the stuff of magic. Guided by a deep sea diver, you’ll find yourself swimming in the Indian Ocean alongside exotic multicolored fish, sharks, and even a turtle or two — an experience that’s equal parts thrilling and humbling. For those looking for even more adventure, the Hanifaru Bay is a must-visit. Located just a 15 minute yacht ride away, this Unesco Biosphere Reserve is perfect if you’re hoping to see some manta rays.
Pro tip: For a forever souvenir, ask your guide to carry along their underwater camera to capture videos of your snorkeling excursion.
Unwind and engage
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
If you’re traveling to disconnect from the world and find yourself, there’s no better spot that The Nautilus. The overwater Solasta Spa offers guests a wide range of holistic spa treatments using organic product lines of Maison Caulières and Omorovicza, and also hosts daily morning yoga and meditation sessions (choose between Vinyasa and aerial yoga), along with fitness classes. But don’t feel tied down to any spot — massages can also be carried out in the comfort of your room or poolside, any hour of the day.
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
The hotel is also home to a newly developed padel court, gym, and special recreation centre where guests can enjoy a round of table tennis or pool. For those who can’t do without a little retail therapy, The Nautilus boutique has some beautiful boho finds. And if you fancy yourself a culinary whizz, the hotel’s mocktail masterclasses are a must-try. For kids, children’s club Young Wonderers is the place to be, offering tailor-made experiences that are both educational and interactive.
Pro tip: Whether you plan to enjoy a massage in your room or at Solasta Spa, make sure your massage bed is positioned above the floor windows for the most serene views while you unwind.
Sustainability
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
Home to the largest living wall in the Indian Ocean, The Nautilus counts sustainability as its key priority. From empowering and supporting local talent to using sustainable building materials and ocean-approved chemical-free cleaning products, the property is dedicated towards eco-friendly practices.
Pro tip: Make sure to ask your housemaster about the hotel’s coral adoption initiative. By adopting a frame of coral, you can help preserve the beauty of the reef. The hotel’s resident marine biologist will monitor the area regularly to help encourage future growth.
A place you’ll never want to leave
Photo: Courtesy The Nautilus Maldives
The perfect blend of family-like hospitality and ultra-luxury experiences, The Nautilus Maldives was made to create loyalists. With every facet of a holiday — from food to activities and accommodation — up for personalization, this home-away-from-home may just change the way you look at vacations. Check out is likely to be a bittersweet feeling, and as you watch the Nautilus team assemble to wave your yacht goodbye, don’t be surprised if you find yourself already planning your return.
