Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: In-Depth Review

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is ideal for pool owners who value simplicity and reliability over high-tech features. It is perfect for those who want a 'plug-and-play' solution—simply drop it in and walk away.

It is best suited for:

• In-ground pools up to 50 feet in length.
• Owners who don't need smartphone control or Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Anyone looking for a low-maintenance machine with easy-to-clean filters.
• All pool surface types (gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, tile).

You should skip this model if:

• You want smart features: If you want to control your cleaner with a smartphone app or receive push notifications, look at the Polaris 9650iQ Sport instead.
• You have a lot of fine dust/sand: While it can handle fine debris, you'll need to buy the ultra-fine filters separately. The Dolphin Premier comes with multiple filter options out of the box.
• You want a caddy included: This unit is heavy, and carrying it can be a chore. A caddy is an extra expense with this model.

• CleverClean Navigation: Smart scanning ensures complete pool coverage in a 2-hour cycle.
• Dual Scrubbing Brushes: Active brushing attacks algae and bacteria on floors and walls.
• Top-Load Filter Cartridges: Easy-access system makes cleaning the filters a breeze.
• Energy Efficient: Costs about 5 cents per hour to operate, independent of your pool's filtration system.
• Weekly Scheduler: The power supply allows you to schedule cleanings for every day, every other day, or every 3rd day.

Cleaning Performance: The Nautilus CC Plus utilizes Maytronics' CleverClean technology, which scans your pool to determine the most efficient path. In practice, this means it doesn't just wander aimlessly; it systematically covers the entire pool floor and climbs the walls to scrub the waterline. The dual scrubbing brushes spin twice as fast as the unit moves, effectively dislodging stuck-on algae and stubborn dirt that suction cleaners often miss.

Filtration System: One of the biggest upgrades over older models is the top-load cartridge system. Instead of wrestling with a messy debris bag on the bottom of the unit, you simply pop open the top hatch and lift out the two large filter cartridges. They rinse clean in seconds with a garden hose. The standard filters are excellent for leaves and larger debris, though you might want to invest in the ultra-fine filters (sold separately) if you deal with fine dust or sand.

Ease of Use: This is a true plug-and-play device. There is no assembly required. You simply plug the power supply into a standard outlet, drop the cleaner in the pool, and press the single button on the control unit. It runs a standard 2-hour cycle and then shuts off automatically. The lack of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi might be a downside for tech enthusiasts, but for most users, the simplicity is a major plus.

Durability & Maintenance: The unit feels robust and well-built. The tracks provide excellent traction on gunite, vinyl, and fiberglass surfaces. Maintenance is minimal—mostly just rinsing the filters and occasionally checking the impeller for debris. However, the lack of a swivel on the 60-foot cable can lead to tangling if you don't properly coil the cord after each use.