There is no greater magnet for the hospitality industry than the sea, with towering hotels crowding the world’s finest stretches of beach, from the Côte d’Azur to Waikiki. For most travelers, a view of the ocean is the ultimate amenity, but luxury hotels that float or are submerged beneath the surface of the sea provide otherworldly experiences.
Floating is a term of art. There are some hotels that literally float, like The FloatHouse River Kwai in Thailand or the Off Paris Seine that is moored on the banks of the City of Light’s signature river. Others merely provide the illusion of floating, such as tropical overwater bungalows — these are quintessential French Polynesian accommodations but are found in the Maldives, Seychelles and Caribbean as well — where the design is fully integrated with the sea. Yet another category are hotels whose rooms or restaurants are submerged in the sea, providing guests with the underwater experience of coexisting with tropical fish amidst a coral reef.
The clubby Off floats on the Seine between the Right and Left Banks of Paris, not far from Gare d’Austerlitz in the up-and-coming 13th arrondissement. While the neighborhood is buzzing with fashionable bistros and nightspots, the barge-like Off provides an onboard restaurant and bar, even a lap pool. Those who splurge can choose between two fashionable suites whose décor was authored by designers Maurizio Galante and Tal Lancman.
Exotic species viewed from an elaborate underwater suite at Atlantis, The Palm. Above image and featured image: © ATLANTIS, THE PALM; photos by Victor Romero
An underwater guestroom at The Manta Resort off the coast of Tanzania. Photo courtesy of the Manta Resort.
With its recent grand opening, Resorts World’s glitzy new $4.3 billion property is the latest hot spot on the Las Vegas Strip, but the company’s resort on Sentosa Island, Singapore is even more elaborate. It encompasses multiple hotels — among them the elite Crockfords Tower, the postmodern Hotel Michael and Hard Rock — along with several theme parks, a convention center and casino. The property’s Beach Villas hotel offers 11 two-story Ocean Suites that immerse their guests into an exotic ocean habitat. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an undersea view of more than 70 species of marine animals amidst luxury accommodations enhanced by personalized butler service.
Offering the best of both worlds is The Manta Resort in Tanzania — it is located on Pemba Island amidst some stunning turquoise-hued waters — and its three-level floating suite is anchored to the ocean floor off the coast of Africa. Above water, guests enjoy a gentle rafting effect and panoramic views, but in the bedroom below they are treated to the eyepopping aquatic habitat of this corner of the Indian Ocean. Pemba Island is one of the world’s premier diving areas, but guests at The Manta’s underwater room can experience the same thrills without ever putting on a wetsuit.
The Manta Resort’s own Kwanini Foundation is actively involved in protecting the rich marine habitat of Pemba Island, whose reefs are among the most diverse in East Africa. Rapidly increasing population is creating an unsustainable demand for fish, and the foundation is fighting to eliminate destructive practices like dynamite fishing near vulnerable reefs, as well as educating people on climate change and plastic pollution. These conservation efforts not only preserve the natural beauty of Pemba Island, but ensure the magic of The Manta Resort’s underwater accommodations as well.
Perhaps the most audacious example of a hotel with an underwater feature is the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland in China. Constructed at an artificial lake created at an abandoned quarry, most of the sleek, curvaceous structure is technically below grade, with 16 stories built into a subterranean cliff. All of the 336 rooms benefit from spectacular views of the lake and the property’s dramatically illuminated waterfalls and fountains.
One spectacular two-level suite at Shanghai Wonderland features an enclosed living room with outdoor terrace hovering just above the water, while its bedrooms are submerged beneath the lake’s surface, encased in a giant underwater aquarium. Lin Wang, chief marketing officer for IHG, Greater China, commented: “We’re delighted to be joining forces with Shimao Group [developer] again to open InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland — an architectural masterpiece that’s a wonder and beauty in the global hospitality industry.”
When it comes to underwater hotel restaurants, New Zealand civil engineer Mike Murphy is a pioneering force responsible for some of the most dramatic designs. His first underwater restaurant project, Ithaa, opened in 2005 and remains a stunning dining space in the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort. A decade later, Murphy completed the design for his largest underwater dining venue, named 5.8 Undersea Restaurant — it sits 5.8 meters beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean — at the Hurawalhi Island Resort in the Maldives. “Many projects must be canceled, as the sites aren’t suitable or the client desires a room size that’s unrealistically large,” explains Murphy of his niche specialty.
Despite his disciplined training as an engineer, Murphy appreciates the visceral reaction people experience in these underwater spaces. “Their mouths open in awe, they almost gasp in wonder at the beautiful underwater scene in front of them,” he says, and adds, “I, too, always get this feeling when I go down into these undersea rooms.”
The Hurawalhi project benefitted from advancements in fabrication, transportation and the availability of larger crane ships, reports Murphy, who notes these ventures work best in locations protected from severe waves or storm surges, generally inside a coral reef or protected harbor. “The design of the acrylic windows and arches is very important,” says the engineer, who explains, “The deeper you go in the water, the greater the pressure, and hence the thicker you must make the windows … and the more expensive it gets.”
Murphy designed the largest underwater project to date, a villa at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island called The Muraka, a spectacular suite whose room rate begins at $9,999 per night. “Driven by our inspiration to deliver innovative and transformative experiences to our global travelers, the world’s first undersea residence encourages guests to explore the Maldives from an entirely new perspective below the surface of the sea,” said Ahmed Saleem of the Crown Company, which collaborated with the engineer on the
$15 million project. Murphy, who retired a few years ago at age 70, continues to receive proposals for projects and is hoping his design for the world’s first revolving underwater restaurant will be realized.
Above, the view from an Ocean Suite at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore. Photo courtesy of RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA SINGAPORE.
At far left, an underwater suite at the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland.
Above, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, constructed at an abandoned quarry. Photos courtesy of InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland.
The FloatHouse River Kwai is a bona fide floating resort in Thailand, a country where floating homes and markets are not particularly unusual. The hotel’s string of thatched roof villas is essentially a lengthy pontoon boat parked along the river made famous by the novel and Oscar-winning movie Bridge on the River Kwai. Each villa provides nearly 1,000 square feet of comfort appointed with teak furniture and features a private terrace with a swing from which to lazily watch the slowly passing riverboats.
The luxurious Taj Lake Palace hotel is not technically floating on India’s Lake Pichola, but most certainly appears to be. The artificial lake, which was created in the 14th century, has several islands, and the white marble-clad structure — it was originally a summer palace for the ruling dynasty of Mewar — was constructed on one of them in 1746. The palace was designed in a manner that makes it look like an ornate floating raft, and while the illusion is convincing, nobody gets seasick. The hotel oozes elegance and romance, and the most extravagant suites, with hand-painted ceilings, crystal chandeliers and panoramic water views, are indeed palatial.
In a city that specializes in over-the-top experiences, Dubai’s 1,500-room Atlantis, The Palm offers a 1,775-square-foot underwater suite with floor-to-ceiling windows for viewing the resort’s signature aquarium, stocked with 65,000 marine animals. A guest lying on the bed or relaxing in the marble bath will be mesmerized by sharks, stingrays and vibrantly hued tropical fish sailing past. A private elevator ascends to the suite’s intimate lounge, offering surface views of a lagoon, and guests’ needs are attended to by a dedicated butler.
With powder-white sand and turquoise waters that offer tranquil swimming and world-class surfing, this gated seven-bedroom property — set on beautiful Lorient Beach — is one of St. Barth’s most luxurious beachfront estates.
“This property represents an extremely rare opportunity to purchase a beachfront estate in St. Barth,” says Tom Smyth of St. Barth Properties Sotheby’s International Realty who is listing the property for 35 million euros. “We generally see an opportunity like this once per decade.”
Features include wraparound terraces providing easy access to the interior from all sides, a stunning pool, a spacious living area, a gourmet kitchen, and five equal master suites are all accessible from the courtyard.
Additionally, the expansive courtyard encompasses a private spa and a bar, and a two- bedroom caretaker’s house is located near the entrance. The property allows for expansion.
For more information, contact:
Tom Smyth
St. Barth Properties Sotheby’s International Realty
St. Barth +590.590.29.90.10
Tom@stbarth.com
sothebysrealty-stbarth.com
This newly constructed shingle-style home on coveted Smith’s Point in Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts, is strategically set on 3-plus acres.
The property has been artfully designed to provide magnificent water views from all major rooms. The home is exceptionally well-appointed with soaring ceilings, crown moldings, wainscoting, and hardwood floors throughout. The sprawling entry way leads to an open floor plan that allows for sophisticated and comfortable entertaining — highlighted by an exquisitely appointed kitchen. The master suite has stunning views, a barrel ceiling, a luxurious marble bath/spa, dressing room, and sitting area for relaxed enjoyment.
Other amenities include a guest suite, service pantry, a three-story elevator and a heated three-car garage with an inclusive mud room. Plans for a dock have been started. The property, listed for $5.95 million by Anthony Bullock IV of Churchhill Properties, is a short walk to Singing Beach, one of the top ten beaches in the U.S., and to downtown.
Churchill Properties originally appeared as an Elite company in the Unique Homes Spring ’20: Elite edition.
Tired of being cooped up working from home? Work from the beach! Make your summer of 2020 as enjoyable as possible on peaceful Isle of Palms.
Located just a block from the beach, this rental property situated 3005 Cameron Blvd in Isle Of Palms, SC boasts a beautiful private pool and fenced yard outside. Inside, the well-designed open floor plan offers elevator access and large spaces to enjoy inside and out, including the rooftop deck with ocean views, and private yard with plenty of seating to lounge around the pool and enjoy a poolside barbecue.
The well-maintained home is like your own private resort, boasting two master suites with oversized showers and Jacuzzi tubs, four additional bedrooms including a bunk room off the main living space, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, Brazilian cherry hardwood floors throughout, and elevator for easy access for all guests.
The light-filled great room with exposed beams and a cathedral ceiling is a comfortable place for your whole crew to gather for entertainment around the 60-inch HDTV with surround sound. Some may opt to enjoy the evening breezes and sounds of the ocean from the adjacent covered porch.
When it’s mealtime, preparation is a pleasure with the open kitchen and gas cooktop island where the chef can be in the center of the activity of the group. Large dining table seats 12 with additional options for seating at the breakfast bar, covered porch, or al fresco poolside.
A “reverse floor plan” with the living space above 4 of the 6 bedrooms, the master suite on this floor has a coffered ceiling, walk-in closet, and huge master bath with a double sink vanity, Jacuzzi tub and oversized shower. Just across the hall from the powder room is the bunkroom with two sets of bunk beds and TV.
The floor below has another master suite with the same layout as above, and an additional king-bedded room – each with their own private porch overlooking the pool. There are two more bedrooms with queen beds on this floor, the laundry room, and another covered porch with a row of rocking chairs off of the main entry foyer.
The location is ideal – just a short stroll one block to the beach access path at 30th Avenue to the gorgeous wide stretch of beach that spans the eastern side of the island halfway between the Isle of Palms Connector and the marina. See dolphins play near the shore, and on moonlit walks you will encounter crabs scurrying out of your path and you may even find sea turtles nesting during the summer or their hatchlings racing toward the ocean on warm evenings. Bike for miles on the beach, or tool around the island on a golf cart – rentals available.
Make Admiral’s Roost your summer home this year!
For more information contact Michele Miller, Realtor®
Charleston Realty Services – eXp Realty LLC
843-388-4693 mobile
michelemiller.realtor@gmail.com
Running completely on electricity, the Mirage Air is elevating the standard of eco-friendly yachts.
For those with a heart for being eco-friendly, renowned yacht builder Frauscher Shipyard has launched a sleek, silent, electric version of its 740 Mirage Air powered by Torqeedo’s Deep Blue 100i.
Owners can cruise silently at 10 km/h for more than 10 hours, appreciating both the natural world and the yacht’s spacious, centre-console layout, distinctive design and extraordinary quality.
The fully electric 740 Mirage Air further enhances tradition with innovation, high-tech features and eco-friendliness. Installed with a Deep Blue 100 kW electric inboard motor and two lithium batteries with BMW technology (i3-type), the 740 Mirage Air is the ideal day cruiser.
“At Frauscher Shipyard, we see ourselves as ‘Engineers of Emotions,’ and we always want the owners of our boats to have a great time on the water. With the powerful 100 kW drive system, we are entering an entirely new dimension of electric mobility on the water,” says Frauscher Shipyard’s managing partner Stefan Frauscher.
The 7.47-meter yacht was designed by studio KISKA and Thomas Gerzer, alongside hydrodynamic expert Harry Miesbauer. Although the dynamic lines are suggestive of luxury car design, inside you’ll find all the comforts one could desire: a silent, environmentally friendly electric drive, refrigerated compartment, high-tech yet easy-to-use controls and displays, large sunbathing area, electric windlass, and a bow thruster for foolproof docking.
The whisper-quiet engine used in the Frauscher 740 Mirage Air is specifically designed and constructed to power planing motorboats. The system’s reliable and easy-to-maintain design delivers extraordinary performance at its full power range, with up to 2,400 rpm and incredible torque delivered at low rpm.
The 40 kWh Deep Blue batteries installed in the 740 Mirage Air bring the latest in automotive-grade lithium-ion technology from the famed motor works of BMW. The batteries feature industry-leading energy density and a comprehensive safety system. Torqeedo has tailored the characteristics of the Deep Blue battery to make it suitable for the marine environment and is offering up to a nine-year limited battery capacity warranty.
“The Frauscher 740 Mirage Air provides a quiet and powerful luxury yachting experience for boats that operate in sensitive areas and those with a heart for nature,” says Torqeedo CEO Christoph Ballin. “With an industrially engineered, fully integrated electric drive system and the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Frauscher Shipyard, this electric yacht will attract the eye of discerning owners worldwide.”
Photos courtesy of Christian Brecheis
For years, the coastal town of Port Aransas, affectionately called “Port A” by its residents, has seen visitors from other areas of Texas and from all throughout the U.S. In fact, the amount of visitors so far in 2019 has exceeded last year’s numbers by 40 percent.
This influx of new visitors is only expected to rise with the new festivals Port A is involved in over the summer. The location has long been described as an ideal fishing destination, and the 84th Annual Deep Sea Roundup is a reflection of just that. As the oldest fishing competition on the Gulf Coast, the Deep Sea Roundup, taking place from July 11 to July 14, brings people from all over to enjoy fishing in this relaxed atmosphere. Also attracting fishers from across the nation is the Texas Legends Billfish Tournament, taking place from August 7 to August 11.
The Beachtoberfest is a seven week-long festival involving a 5K run, a music fest, fishing tournaments, chef competitions, craft beer tastings, an art walk and other events as well. Also located at Port Aransas, the festival is taking place from September 13 to October 27.
Port A’s underrated food scene will also be showcasing itself during the Texas Super Chef Throwdown Series, occurring from September 18 to October 21. Consisting of 30 chefs from all around the state, the event qualifies the winning chefs to the World Food Championships in Dallas, Texas, consisting of 450 chefs competing from around the world.
All these events, taking place in Port Aransas, are a reflection of the culture and lifestyle in this coastal town — one where breathtaking luxury meets a casual atmosphere and invites all families to join in on the festivities.
Photos courtesy of Cinnamon Shore
“Cap Blanc Ibiza” is in one of Spain’s most desired locations on the island — Cap Martinet, Talamanca.
The exclusive private residence of nine luxury villas was designed so each home ensures the privacy and seclusion of its owners.
“It is just a short drive to the world’s best nightlife, and some of the most spectacular white-sand beaches you can imagine,” says Richard Lacey of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Blue Moon who is representing the property. “Ibiza is one of the most beautiful islands in the world.”
The home showcases stunning architecture inspired by contemporary, Brazilian design — a work of a team of leading Dutch and Spanish architects that create these properties where outdoors and indoors merge and flow.
Notable features include floor-to-ceiling windows and large doors that provide unobstructed views of the sea and the island of Formentera. “The lounge for me is the best spot, high ceilings with lots of light, ideal for entertaining,” says Lacey.
Listed for 3.75 million euros, the home also features 600 square meters of living space over three floors, five en-suite bedrooms, open-space fully equipped kitchen, incredible sea views, private garden with spacious swimming pool, private garage, state-of-the-art security, additional service kitchen, fitness room and sauna, and a wine cellar. There is also an optional private movie theater and separate accommodation for staff. The nine residences that make up Cap Blanc Ibiza offer unparalleled amenities and facilities for those seeking a place to relax in comfortable luxury.
Situated between the sea and the mountains in North Chilean Patagonia, this 348,000-acre estate has been recognized as one of the greatest remaining woodlands on earth.
Listed for $150 million by Christie’s International Real Estate with Bórquez & Associates, the one-of-a-kind property — known as Zona de Los Lagos Andinos — boasts unparalleled natural beauty and offers endless possibilities to conserve and develop.
Sited 621 miles south of Santiago and 74 miles from Bariloche, this Chilian paradise has a century-long history, yet it has been left essentially untouched.
“The history of the Hacienda Puchequin is as exciting as its geography,” says María José Bórquez of Bórquez & Asociado.
Spanish soldiers discovered the land in 1558, where they met two indigenous tribes — the Poyas and the Huilliches, who had been living in harmony with the land’s natural habitat for centuries.
From forests, mountains and granite peaks to lakes, waterfalls and beaches, the land invites a range of activities — including skiing, fishing, rafting, hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. “The possibilities are endless for a nature lover, and there are very few other places in the world where one can find this level of natural beauty and diversity of landscapes,” says Bórquez.
Although boundless opportunities await, Bórquez notes that “one of the most interesting features of the land is the rock climbing that can be done in the sector known as La Junta.” With around 50 different routes and walls more than a thousand meters high, the destination challenges climbers from across the globe.
A land of this scope will best serve “a lover of nature with a vision of conservation,” according to Bórquez. “[The buyer] would utilize the land in service of others, enhancing the attractions of this property by creating a tourism development plan, without intervening with the natural ecosystems or native forests,” she adds.
Located near the city of Puerto Montt, Chiloe and Puerto Varas in Chile, and Bariloche in Argentina, Hacienda Pucheguin offers a great location for adventurous tourists.
Photos courtesy Christie’s International Real Estate
This story was previously featured in the Winter 2019 edition of Unique Homes Magazine.
Timbers Resorts, the leading developer and operator of luxury boutique properties around the globe, recently announced the opening of the highly anticipated Timbers Kiawah – Ocean Club & Residences, the first new residential development on Kiawah Island’s oceanfront in over 30 years.
Made up of 21 thoughtfully designed residences across three oceanfront buildings, the new development is the first and only residence club on Kiawah Island, offering buyers a completely new way to approach home ownership on the sought-after island.
“Timbers Kiawah is the front row seat to the best beach on the Eastern Seaboard,” says David Burden, Executive Chairman and Founder of Timbers Resorts. “Developed with families in mind, we believe it provides the ideal setting for generations – it captures the spirit of the Lowcountry and showcases the ultimate in oceanfront living. We are excited to be a part of the tight-knit community of Kiawah and we look forward to welcoming all of our new owners to the Timbers family.”
Featuring coastal interiors by J. Banks Design and architecture by Poss Architecture + Planning, Timbers Kiawah – Ocean Club & Residences features resort-like amenities including a private clubhouse with a central lounge area, temperature-controlled owners’ wine storage, private bar and state-of-the art fitness facility. Also available exclusively to Timbers residents and their guests is a private beach club with an oceanfront pool and beach services, as well as an array of family and children’s programming.
“The Timbers Kiawah experience is unlike any other in the Lowcountry,” says Greg Spencer, CEO of Timbers Resorts. “We curated a team of the most talented professionals to provide a fresh and exclusive experience on Kiawah Island. From the interiors to the roster of activities, we work diligently to provide a carefree setting for owners to relax and enjoy what Kiawah has to offer.”
With sales on track for sell-out, Timbers Kiawah’s sales success proves the continued strength of Timbers Resorts’ fractional ownership model. The Timbers concept affords owners a hassle-free owning experience—both on and off the island—by providing year-round onsite management as well as pre-arrival provisioning, on-island concierge services, owner storage, valet parking and daily housekeeping.
Currently for sale, Timbers Kiawah residences are housed in three separate buildings connected by the property’s exclusive beach club and pool deck. Each home features panoramic views of the ocean and spacious interiors fit for families. Recognized as some of the most prized real estate on Kiawah Island the 18 three-bedroom homes total over 2,200 sq. ft. each, while the development’s marquee listings—its three four-bedroom penthouses—boast over 3,600 sq. ft. of interior space. All residences feature floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive outdoor terraces and a host of high-quality finishes and furnishings – most of which were custom crafted by J. Banks Design, an international firm recognized by Interior Design as among the best in hospitality design.
Timbers Kiawah also features a clubhouse and lounge, owner services team, temperature-controlled wine storage, kids play room and a state-of-the-art fitness facility. Here, residents can send postcards custom designed by Charleston artist Rick Sargent to their families and friends; request any service ranging from meal delivery to babysitting; and book dining reservations and daytime excursions. Upon purchasing a residence, Timbers Kiawah will commission a caricature portrait of the family, which will hang in the clubhouse’s main room.
Timbers Kiawah provides owners with private access to a dedicated set of luxury amenities and personalized services. The heart of the resort is the beach club, where the oceanfront pool, residents-only restaurant and beach services are all located.
Throughout the property, Timbers Kiawah only uses bamboo cutlery and straws to help protect Kiawah Island’s threatened sea turtles. Conservation is a large part of the company’s DNA, and new programs dedicated to this cause will continue rolling out throughout the next year.
Photos courtesy of Timbers Kiawah.
Dedicated to creating a way of life that is healthy, sustainable and fun, Las Catalinas will undergo an expansion and innovation in 2018.
Ensuring 2018 will be a remarkable year for this new seaside town, the expansion will welcome 100 more residences by the end of 2018 in addition to the 46 residences already complete.
When arriving by car to Las Catalinas, visitors and residents now pull up to the new Plaza Central building, which features a wonderfully welcoming new hospitality office designed by Robert Orr. Other immediate new additions include the December 2017 opening of a day spa called Wake that will offer a thoughtful assortment of classic therapies and sports recovery treatments.
With more full-time residents relocating to the area, Las Catalinas is providing office space as a service in both co-working spaces and for lease office space. By May 2018, there will be a new grocery store called Copper and Stone overseen by celebrated Costa Rican Chef Demian Geneau.
Perhaps most noteworthy for 2018, however, is a new boutique hotel in the heart of Las Catalinas’s central Beach Town neighborhood. The hotel, set to open in December 2018, will offer 45 rooms, two restaurants, a rooftop pool, and the town bakery.
Photos courtesy of Las Catalinas