Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has officially opened THE MURAKA, world’s first undersea residence.

Now welcoming guests to dive into an extraordinary experience both above and below the surface of the Indian Ocean, THE MURAKA is a triumph of modern design and technology, delivering a truly transformative journey suited to amaze the most sophisticated explorers across the globe.

“The completion of THE MURAKA is a personal lifetime achievement,” Ahmed Saleem, a Director at resort owner Crown Company and chief architect and designer of the residence, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“After years in the making, my team and I are proud to officially present THE MURAKA residence and its accompanying Maldivian experience to worldly travellers who crave the extraordinary.”

THE MURAKA, as seen from afar. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

Envisioned by Saleem, and realised by Mike Murphy, leading engineer at M J Murphy Ltd., a New Zealand-based company that specialises 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.

The undersea suite features a king size bedroom, living area, bathroom and spiral staircase that leads to the upper level living room. The undersea bedroom floor level sits five metres (16.4 feet) below sea level, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding marine environment.

Bathroom of the undersea bedroom. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

With the adoption of state-of-the-art technology, THE MURAKA’s distinct design is akin to that of Rangali Island’s Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, with the curved acrylic dome, which boasts 180-degree panoramic views of the wonders of the Indian Ocean’s intricate marine life.

THE MURAKA’s upper level features a twin-size bedroom, bathroom, powder room, gym, butler’s quarters, private security quarters, integrated living room, kitchen, bar and dining, which features a deck that purposely faces the direction of the sunset for optimal viewing pleasure. On the opposite side of the villa sits the relaxation deck that faces the direction of sunrise and is complete with an infinity swimming pool. The upper level also contains an additional king size bedroom and bathroom, which boasts a masterfully appointed ocean-facing bathtub, ideal for soaking in views of the endless horizon.

The overwater bedroom at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

The overwater bathroom at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

The overwater lounge area at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

The overwater deck at THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

In total, THE MURAKA can accommodate up to nine guests.

Experiences

THE MURAKA features four curated menu suggestions packed with exclusive and customisable experiences tailored to varying desires of today’s travellers. Defining the core ethos of THE MURAKA journey these experience menus – The Wanderers, The Flavours, The Soul and The Thrill – complement the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the world’s most breathtaking natural environments from an entirely new perspective.

Personalised Service

Guests who stay at THE MURAKA will have devoted butlers who are dedicated to hyper-personalisation and attention to detail for each expertly crafted stay in the residence. Available 24 hours a day – seven days a week, these butlers deliver exceptional service and stand out as ambassadors of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island as they guide guests through their own unique Maldivian journey.

Beyond that, they are equipped with the ability to educate guests about the options available in THE MURAKA and in the Maldives. THE MURAKA butlers are also able to accommodate any circumstances and requests for guests ranging from the need for privacy to exclusive culinary experiences and soul-enriching journey’s designed to add dimension to the MURAKA experience. Amongst the most important qualities, these butlers share a passion for culture, environment and adventure.

“Our philosophy of innovation is supported by several triumphs at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island,” Stefano Ruzza, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, said.

“From the first construction of Ithaa Undersea Restaurant to our second venture under the Indian Ocean, THE MURAKA, we are continuously making powerful enhancements to the property that are designed to attract the world’s most connected and knowledgeable travellers.”

Aerial of THE MURAKA. PHOTO/ JUSTIN NICHOLAS

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located in South Ari Atoll and is accessible by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main airport.

As one of the Maldives’ leading resorts and one of Hilton Worldwide’s flagship properties, the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers 150 villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, two spas — all stretched over two remote islands. It features the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, world’s first undersea restaurant made from only glass.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is home to two unique spa experiences; The Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and the Over Water Spa on Rangali Island. Combining expertise from around the world with carefully selected products and therapies influenced by the environment, the two spas offer unique and effective experiences to suit the needs of every individual.

The luxury resort also offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it is pre-selecting bath amenities or checking in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.

More information and reservations for THE MURAKA are available by direct phone at +960 792 9119 or email at TheMuraka@conradhotels.com. Details on the resort and overall reservation queries can be directed to www.conradmaldives.com.