1 Big Sustainable Island

Floating Island Retreat: Lakefront Cabin w/ Sauna

A unique nature stay for outdoor retreats on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine — near Winthrop.

Quick Answer: Floating Island Retreat: Lakefront Cabin w/ Sauna is The Nautilus is a floating love letter to reinvention — a cabin, a tiny home, and a houseboat all rolled into one quietly wonderful idea. Moored beside 1 Big Sustainable Island, it lets you wake to gentle waves at your door, watch the sunrise from bed, and step straight onto a floating porch for morning coffee. It’s proof that with a little imagination (and a lot of care), something old can become something entirely new on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine.

The Nautilus is a floating love letter to reinvention — a cabin, a tiny home, and a houseboat all rolled into one quietly wonderful idea. Moored beside 1 Big Sustainable Island, it lets you wake to gentle waves at your door, watch the sunrise from bed, and step straight onto a floating porch for morning coffee. It’s proof that with a little imagination (and a lot of care), something old can become something entirely new.

Guest Reviews from Revyoos — Showing 10 of 143 Reviews

Emily September 30 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Such a beautiful spot- remote and private- make sure to visit with people you enjoy spending quality time with to get the full impact of being immersed in the peacefulness of nature ❤️

Rich September 24 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Me and my wife had a fantastic time! Beautiful place! Very peaceful! Perfect place for a relaxing romantic getaway

Kaitlyn September 23 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Hit the "reserve now" button. Do it before someone else does!! Dont even read my review, just reserve this place!! I dont even know where to start with this review. Your host will ferry you to your cabin on a gorgeous, private island, what else do you need to know? We saw bald eagles, & heard loons throughout the morning. We woke up to the most beautiful sunrise. 5 stars seems like an insult to this amazing place, I wish I could give them more. We have stayed at a lot of AirBnb's, this just took first place!

Hannah September 21 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Had an AMAZING time, will be returning!!!

Autumn September 19 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

The Nautilus house and 1BSI provides a stunning, peaceful, innovative vacation destination. Kent has clearly thought through every detail in designing the sustainability of the island. His communication is comprehensive, fun and friendly. There’s plenty of amenities, like canoeing, hammocks on floating docks, paddle boards, kayaks, gorgeous nature, fire pits, I could go on but I recommend that you experience it for yourself. Just amazing, would definitely return. Thank you Kent!!!

Surbhi September 16 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

This place and experience is magical! Kent and his crew ho out of their way to make sure your stay is as relaxing and enjoyable as it can be! The island is private and the location is gorgeous. We stayed in the water house. One of the most unique experiences! We will be back, thank you Kent and team! :)?

Heather September 14 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

What a special place! Kent and Heather made everything extremely easy and were very available for any needs/questions. The cabin was so sweet and a great spot for quiet reflection. The island was super fun to explore with beautiful views. I went solo with my dog and we can’t wait to go back! The love and dedication that has gone into building this place, and making it available to guests, is undeniable.

Alice September 12 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Had an absolutely wonderful time! My son loved fishing! We can’t wait to go back! Thanks Kent!!!

Ray September 11 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

The Nautilus was amazing! Beautiful views! Very private! <br/>Fish off the deck! Great campsite just up the gangplank for grilling or fires. Our dog Roxy loved jumping in the water. Fantastic place to turn off your mind and veg. Amazing sunrises! The slight ripples in the lake rock you to sleep at night and during the day. Great naps! <br/>Very comfortable bed and wood burning stove. <br/>The water jugs provided worked perfectly. The water was refreshing and delicious. <br/>Super hosts!!<br/>We loved it, plan on a return trip, and highly recommend!

Becca August 29 2025
Rating: 5.0 / 5

We are so thrilled to join the many adventurers who’ve experienced this incredibly special island. The ferry ride over is such a unique adventure, and Kent and his team have the process completely dialed in while supporting your stay in every way possible. <br/>The Nautilus is one of the most unique places we’ve ever stayed—nestled in pure nature yet stocked with everything you need. Each day felt like a spectacle: sunrises with French press coffee, loons calling across the water, wildlife shows, and nights under brilliant stars. A favorite surprise was reading through the guest book—it reminded us that we’re all connected by a shared sense of wonder in nature. <br/>The views from every corner of the Waterhouse are unforgettable, and the peace is unmatched. <br/>We can’t wait to return and are so grateful to Kent and Heather for opening up their world to create such a special summer memory.

Nautilus Water House FAQs

What's special about the Nautilus Waterhouse?

The Nautilus is a floating waterhouse docked at the island - offering a unique on-the-water stay with stunning lake views and immediate access to swimming and paddling.

Is the Nautilus Waterhouse off-grid?

Yes. Like all 1BSI stays, the Nautilus is off-grid by design, using thoughtful systems that balance sustainability with comfort.

What's included in this stay?

A cozy sleeping space, cooking gear, hot shower/bathroom access on the island, firewood, canoe or kayak use, and access to a hammock swim dock, boat dock, and swimming spots.

How do I access the Nautilus Waterhouse?

You'll arrive on your front porch by boat.