Anthenea

Anthenea is truly unbelievable! The world’s first floating, solar-powered hotel suite is something that seems as though it should be in a science-fiction film. However, Anthenea is an actual pod that can be rented for those adventurous (and extremely wealthy) connoisseurs.

The floating pod was designed by Jean-Michel Ducancelle, a French designer and architect. Ducancelle consulted naval architects to ensure that every detail was properly accounted for. The company spent 15 years designing and developing this floating pod idea.

When he was fifteen years old, Ducancelle became fascinated with “The Spy Who Loved Me,” a James Bond film that premiered in 1977. About the experience of watching the movie in a cinema in Marseille, the designer told Upscale Living Magazine, ” “I was drawn to the story of this man who gives up everything to live under the sea and builds this octopus-shaped space that’s in contact with flora and fauna of the ocean.” The movie ends with the main characters seen in floating saucers… that’s how the unconventional idea was formed!

The hope was to design an “eco-responsible and nomadic vessel for eco tourists.” The hotel suite is 100% self-sufficient and completely ecological. Resembling a UFO, the futuristic-looking pod is powered by the sun and compatible to any and all waterways and climates. In addition, the designer says it is “unsinkable.”

The pod is made of fiberglass and it has a glass bottom to allow for underwater viewing. The domed shape is uniquely designed to make it possible to follow the “sun’s rays and blend seamlessly into the environment.” Further maintaining its environmental-friendly ethos, Anthenea employs a desalination system and a wood-burning stove that has zero-environmental impact.

The 540-square-foot pod is available for rent off Brittany’s (France) coast. Designed to sail, the intent is that owners move Anthenea from destination to far-reaching destination. A modern “houseboat,” the pod allows guests the opportunity to partake in the world’s underwater landscapes as they float effortlessly through lakes, oceans, and rivers.

Inside the pod, there is a living room outfitted with eco-friendly furnishings that include curved furniture covered with waxed concrete and an underwater window. The living room was directly inspired by the interior of James Bond’s escape pod. Further adding to the luxurious feeling, Duchanelle instilled a cocoon-shaped sofa inside.

The bedroom has a circular bed and bathtub that can use either seawater or fresh water. The best feature however, is the 360 degree solarium on the rooftop. The solarium allows for undisturbed views of the surrounding; it is ideal for al fresco meals and sunbathing. Twelve people can fit comfortably on the rooftop.

Alexandre Volland, the company’s business development leader for the United States, Bahamas, and the Caribbean said, “Initially, Anthenea was only meant for the hotelier and hospitality industry, but Ducancelle wanted to be able to share his vision of sustainable living with more people. While the villainous Stromberg took his love of the sea and hopes for humanity to the extreme, Ducanelle wants to be more persuasive — using a floating living room with 360-degree views of the ocean to help foster an appreciation for the planet.” A fabulous idea indeed!