Hot off the presses, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has announced the submersion of what is believed to be the world’s first undersea residence, to be completed in late 2018. This revolutionary concept will offer a truly transformative experience for guests who seek to be fully immersed within the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean. Marking yet another trailblazing initiative from the property, the Undersea Villa joins the world’s first undersea restaurant, also located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Ithaa, which opened 13 years ago this month.
Aptly named THE MURAKA, meaning coral in Dhivehi, the local language of the Maldives, the villa is designed to blend into its environment, giving guests’ an unparalleled view of the Indian Ocean from every angle. Surrounded by diverse array of marine life, Muraka’s residents will be able to sleep alongside the wonders of the endless ocean.
Envisioned by Crown Company Director Ahmed Saleem, and realized by Mike Murphy, leading engineer at M J Murphy Ltd., a New Zealand-based company that specializes in aquarium technology, the undersea residence is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface.
“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, a Director at Crown Company and chief architect and designer of the undersea residence.
This fully self-contained, two-level structure consists of living space and luxurious amenities both above and below the surface of the water. The lower level, submerged five meters (16.4 feet) below the surface on the sea floor, features a king size bedroom, living area and bathroom and is connected by a spiral staircase to the upper level, where guests will find beautifully-appointed accommodations equipped with additional bed- and bathrooms, a living room, kitchen and bar, as well as a relaxation deck with an infinity pool, and more.
With the adoption of state-of-the-art technology, Muraka’s distinct design is akin to Ithaa’s with the curved acrylic dome, which boasts 180-degree panoramic views of the wonders of the Indian Ocean’s intricate marine life.
Located in one of the Maldives’ best diving and snorkeling locations, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has created a space that invites and inspires with a distinctive design that flows harmoniously with the natural environment. The resort also features thoughtfully designed villas and suites, 12 award-winning restaurants and bars, two spas and a selection of culturally-inspired experiences set against awe-inspiring Maldivian surroundings.
