‘Anthenea’ pod is a floating eco-hotel suite that runs only on solar power. the autonomous electric pod is designed for a new kind of tourism that addresses the many environmental challenges of our time, including: rising sea levels, the effects of climate change, the overdensity of the seaboard, and places congested by tourism.
Half-boat, half-futuristic pod, the Anthenea is a bold take on sea-bound tourism. While we’ve already seen everything from an underwater Maldives hotel to an elevating floating home, the 538-square-foot Anthenea is being billed as “the world’s first eco-luxe floating hotel suite” (that can also be used as a spa, restaurant, night club, or really whatever the buyer can dream of).
The domed capsule is the brainchild of naval architect Jean-Michel Ducancelle, who was inspired by the floating saucer in the 1977 Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. Under development for the last 15 years, this 21st-century version is outfitted with five south-facing solar panels that soak up the sun and power the electric motors and mechanical systems.
The interior offers three main living spaces—a daytime area that has a wet bar and lounge furniture that look out to sea through an underwater window. The nighttime zone has a circular bed and a bathtub. The pop-up “relaxation area” can be reached by a staircase and provides a 360-degree rooftop solarium big enough for 12 people.
Its spherical shape is based on the principle of ‘surface tension’ observed in nature, which, according to its designers, is the optimal form of resistance to extreme conditions on the water.
eco-deluxe pod for a timeless experience
Anthenea is an adventurous alcove where travelers can live authentic and surprising experiences through island and terrestrial possibilities.
It offers a vision of the beauty of the world’s underwater in the heart of a calm and intact bubble.