The Underwater Room

Relax and watch rare fish swim by, from the extreme comfort and beauty of a shimmering Zanzibar underwater idyll.

If you've ever wondered about the exact location of paradise, we can give you directions. The Manta Resort is a stunningly serene, naturally crafted sanctuary found on the remote Zanzibar island of Pemba.  

The eco-friendly resort is a tropical island tribute to the calm and simple life. On this kilometre-stretch of heaven, you can get beautifully up close and personal with nature, bask in the golden sun, indulge in water-based adventure and enjoy all the easy delights of natural living, with a choice of garden rooms, seafront villas, and an onsite spa to relax in.

The true pearl in the oyster, however, is the resort's Underwater Room - one of those ‘bucket list' escapes you'll be enthusing about forever after.

The Swedish-engineered floating structure is an absolute joy to behold, moored in the crystal waters of the island's marine conservation area (known as ‘the blue hole' - complete with stunning coral heads).  

An escorted boat ride will carry you to your shimmering sanctuary, located 250m from the shore, and you'll be provided with a kayak, snorkel and fins to explore the local area up close.

The Underwater Room is spaced across three levels, with the hardwood sea-level landing deck home to a cosy lounge and bathroom area, with open-air freshwater shower and an eco-friendly marine toilet.  

Climb the ladder to enjoy the delights of a sun-soaked deck that's just as wonderful a setting by night, when you lie back and gaze up at twinkling stars in the clear night sky, all the while listening to the soothing sounds of the sea.

Head downstairs to a downy double bed, surrounded by panes of glass that showcase 360-degree views of the glorious life lived under the sea. Marvel at the beauty of the coral as you watch shoals of reef fish swim by, and perhaps say hello to the occasional octopus or squid visitor....in fact, you could say the Underwater Room is like being in a beautiful aquarium, only you're the attraction for the fish!

By night, underwater spotlights provide a soft, cosy glow, lighting up the sea and attracting even more attention from your friendly visitors.

Trust us, you will not want to leave your underwater bubble - particularly as you'll find a fully-stocked bar fridge on the lounge deck, and breakfast and dinner can be served to you on the deck of your choice!  

Just in case you're in need of any assistance, you'll be provided with a mobile phone and contact numbers during your stay, and just in case you do decide to venture out, you'll find all manner of activity all around you, from safari excursions and watersports, to relaxing spa treatments.

But for now, head to that sun deck with a cocktail and a good book, as you prepare to greet your underwater friends by evening. While you're living in paradise, all other decisions can be put off until later.

Things to note

*A stay in The Underwater Room can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum 2 night stay in the main resort (pricing shown is based on 1 night Underwater Room and 2 nights Standard Garden Room). Minimum stay of 5 nights in peak season from 20 December to 10 January. Transfers from Pemba Airport to the resort are $90 per person return, the room is then 250 metres from the island by boat. All rooms are on a fully inclusive basis, including food & drink, one daily spa treatment per person, kayaks, laundry, wi-fi (on mainland only - coverage not included in the Underwater Room) and boat transfer to the Underwater Room. Minimum age for children to stay at the Underwater Room is 12 years.