The Nautilus Maldives
Travel writer Richard Agyemang experiences a bespoke private island experience at The Nautilus Maldives
Tucked away in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Nautilus Maldives is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional escape into paradise. The journey to this hidden gem begins with a breathtaking seaplane flight from Malé, offering a bird’s-eye view of the turquoise waters and coral-studded atolls below, a prelude to the extraordinary experience that awaits.
From the moment your adventure begins, The Nautilus sets the tone for unparalleled luxury. Your dedicated House Master reaches out before you even depart, ensuring that every detail of your stay is meticulously tailored to your desires. This level of personalized service is a hallmark of The Nautilus, making every guest feel like a VIP.
Upon arrival in Malé, the red-carpet treatment begins. Greeted on the tarmac by a chauffeured SUV, you are swiftly whisked away through VIP immigration, bypassing the usual hustle of travel. A short, luxurious 30-minute seaplane ride—operated exclusively by The Nautilus—lands you on the shimmering waters of the Baa Atoll. From there, a five-minute speedboat ride delivers you directly to the island, where your personal oasis awaits.
The Nautilus boasts a selection of stunning houses and residences as well as their signature residences The Retreat and The Mansion. All spaces at The Nautilus are designed with meticulous attention to detail, with circular spaces all inspired by the nautilus shell spiral design. The overwater and beachfront villas offer expansive spaces and modern luxury, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Maldives. The villas are equipped with private pools, spacious decks, and direct access to the pristine ocean or beach. Our stay in the Beach House was simply magnificent.
’Time stands still’ is the motto at The Nautilus, with the ability for guests to enjoy the delights of the island no matter what time of day. This unique offering is most notable in the ability to dine whenever you please. Dining at The Nautilus is an exceptional experience, reflecting the resort’s commitment to culinary excellence. The resort features several dining options, including Ocaso, where you can savour Japanese and Latin-American dishes in an elegant setting. Thyme provides a more relaxed atmosphere with a focus on beachfront all-day dining. Zeytoun is their signature fine dining restaurant showcasing Mediterranean flavours, while gourmet canapés and cocktails can be taken poolside at Naiboli. The resort’s dining philosophy emphasises flexibility and personalisation, offering bespoke dining experiences tailored to your preferences. Menus in all venues are offered simply as a guide with The Nautilus keen to uphold another island motto, ‘Unscripted Dining’.
The Nautilus is a haven for both adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts. The resort offers an array of activities, including snorkeling and diving in the vibrant coral reefs of the Baa Atoll, which is renowned for its marine biodiversity. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the resort’s spa provides a range of holistic treatments designed to rejuvenate and refresh.
The Nautilus Maldives in Baa Atoll offers a quintessential luxury experience, set against the backdrop of one of the Maldives’ most stunning locations. Its blend of opulent accommodation, exquisite dining, and unparalleled service creates an idyllic retreat for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. We had a truly unforgettable experience and very much look forward to returning in the future.
