Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Review: Transform Your Pool Routine

I’ve owned the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus for over a year, and it’s transformed how I handle pool upkeep. If you’re tired of manual scrubbing and want something that zips around your pool effortlessly, picking this up will save you hours every week.

You get sparkling clean floors and walls without lifting a finger, and at its price point, it’s a steal for anyone with a mid-sized pool. Trust me, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.

My Experience With Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

Let me tell you about my first few weeks with the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus.

I remember unboxing it on a sunny afternoon, feeling a mix of excitement and skepticism.

Would this little robot really handle my 40-foot inground pool, which always seems to collect leaves and dirt no matter what?

I plugged it in, dropped it into the water, and hit the start button. Right away, it hummed to life, mapping out the pool with its CleverClean tech. It wasn’t random; it methodically covered the floor, brushing up sand and debris that had settled after a windy day. I watched as it climbed the walls, something my old manual vacuum could never do without me wrestling it.

The first clean took about two hours, and when I pulled it out, the filter basket was packed with gunk I didn’t even know was there. My pool looked pristine, with that fresh, inviting shimmer. Over the next days, I ran it every other morning, and it became part of my routine.

One time, after a party, there were snack crumbs and sunscreen residue everywhere. I let the Dolphin loose, and by lunchtime, everything was spotless. You know that satisfaction when you jump in and the water feels silky? That’s what it delivered consistently.

I did notice it occasionally bumped into the steps, but a quick nudge got it back on track. The power supply sits poolside, simple to operate with just a couple of buttons. No fancy apps needed for the basic model I have, though I hear the Wi-Fi version lets you schedule from your phone.

As someone who hates complicated gadgets, this straightforward approach won me over. My kids even got involved, naming it “Finny” and arguing over who gets to empty the filters. It’s light enough that I can haul it out solo, and storing it in the garage is no hassle.

Overall, those initial experiences made me a believer—it’s like having a tireless helper that makes pool ownership fun again, not a chore.

Also Read: Comparison of Polaris 280 And 360 Pool Cleaners.

Pros of Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

You and I both know that finding a pool cleaner that actually lives up to the hype is rare, but the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus packs a punch in several ways. Here’s what stands out to me:

• Impressive Cleaning Power: With dual scrubbing brushes spinning at high speeds, it tackles dirt, algae, and small debris on the floor and walls like a pro. I recall dropping it in after a storm, and it sucked up all the twigs and mud without missing a beat. That active brushing means you don’t end up with those stubborn spots that manual cleaning often leaves behind. You can see the difference right away, and it handles various types of grime effortlessly, making your pool ready for swims in no time.
• Ease of Setup and Operation: You just plug it in, lower it into the pool, and press start. No hoses to connect or complicated programming required. For me, as a busy parent, this plug-and-play simplicity means I can get it going while sipping my coffee, and two hours later, the pool is ready for a swim. The top-load filter basket is a game-changer too—pop it open, rinse it out, and you’re done. No more fumbling with bottom-access filters that spill everywhere. It’s designed with real users in mind, cutting down on frustration from the get-go.
• Built to Last: This thing is durable. I’ve run mine hundreds of times over the seasons, and it shows no signs of wear. The tracks grip well, helping it navigate slopes and curves in my pool without slipping. Plus, the two-year warranty gives you peace of mind; I haven’t needed it yet, but knowing it’s there lets me use it worry-free. You won’t have to worry about it breaking down after a few months—it’s sturdy and reliable for ongoing use.
• Energy Efficiency: It doesn’t guzzle electricity like some older models, keeping my bills in check. In a world where everything seems to cost more, this is a welcome feature. You can run it regularly without seeing a spike in your utility costs, which adds to the overall value.
• Smart Navigation with CleverClean: The system uses scanning to cover every inch efficiently. Unlike random-path cleaners that miss areas, this one plans its route, ensuring thorough coverage. In my rectangular pool, it rarely overlaps or skips sections, which saves time and gets better results. You can feel the difference in water clarity after each cycle—it’s like it knows exactly where to go.
• Ideal for Mid-Sized Pools: For pools up to 50 feet, it’s perfect. Mine is on the bigger side, and it handles the distance with its long cord without tangling. The lightweight design makes retrieval easy; I just grab the handle and lift, no strain involved. If you’re dealing with fine particles like pollen or sand, the ultra-fine filters capture them effectively, leaving your water crystal clear.
• Quiet Operation: I appreciate how quiet it is. You can run it while lounging nearby without that annoying buzz some cleaners have. And for families, it’s safe—no exposed parts that could harm curious kids or pets. This makes it great for everyday living around the pool.
• Great Value for Money: At around $700 to $800, depending on where you shop, it offers premium features without the premium price tag of some competitors. I’ve compared it to manual options I used before, and the time savings alone justify the cost. You invest once and reap benefits for years, making it a smart buy.
• Versatility Across Pool Types: It works in various pool shapes and surfaces—vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete. Mine is gunite, and it adheres perfectly without scratching. During hot summers, when algae blooms quickly, it keeps things under control, reducing my chemical use. You might find yourself using less chlorine, which is better for your skin and wallet.

Overall, these features make daily maintenance feel effortless, turning what used to be a weekend drag into something I barely think about. If you’re like me and value convenience above all, this cleaner delivers in spades.

Also Read: Comparison of Polaris 280 And Polaris 380 Pool Cleaners.

Cons of Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

Of course, no product is perfect, and the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus has a few drawbacks you should know about. Let me break them down:

• Occasional Sticking on Obstacles: I’ve encountered it getting stuck on stairs or main drains. In my pool, with shallow steps, it climbs up but then tips over, requiring me to intervene. This interrupts the cycle, and while it’s not frequent, it can be annoying if you’re not around to fix it. You might need to babysit it sometimes in pools with complex features.
• Limited Waterline Scrubbing: It climbs walls well, but doesn’t always reach the very top where scum builds up. You might still need to brush that area manually now and then, which defeats part of the hands-off appeal. If waterline grime is a big issue for you, this could mean extra work.
• Cord Tangling Issues: The cord can tangle if not managed properly. After a few uses, I learned to uncoil it fully each time, but initially, it knotted up, making storage a hassle. And without a swivel, it doesn’t prevent twists as effectively as some pricier models. You’ll have to develop a routine to avoid this frustration.
• Frequent Filter Cleaning Required: While easy, it needs to be done after every use to maintain performance. If you forget, suction drops, and it doesn’t clean as well. For busy folks, this extra step might feel like a chore, even though it’s quick.
• Not Suited for Oversized or Irregular Pools: It’s not the best for very large or oddly shaped pools. If yours exceeds 50 feet or has lots of obstacles, it might miss spots despite the navigation. You could end up with uneven cleaning in non-standard setups.
• No App Connectivity in Base Model: The basic model lacks app features, so no remote scheduling unless you upgrade to the Wi-Fi version, which costs more. I went with the standard one, and sometimes I wish I could start it from work. If tech integration is important to you, consider the upgrade.
• Noticeable Power Supply Noise: Noise from the power supply can be noticeable if placed close to your seating area, though it’s not deafening. It might bother you during quiet poolside moments.
• Costly Replacement Parts: Replacement parts like filters aren’t the cheapest, and if something breaks outside warranty, repairs add up. You’ll want to factor this into long-term ownership costs.

But these cons are minor compared to the benefits, and with some tweaks, you can work around them.

Maintenance Tips For Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

Keeping your Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus in top shape isn’t rocket science, but doing it right extends its life and keeps your pool spotless. I’ll share what I’ve learned from regular use, so you can avoid common pitfalls. Here’s how I handle it:

• Filter Care Routine: After each cycle, remove the basket and hose it down thoroughly. I use a garden hose on a gentle setting to blast away debris without damaging the mesh. If it’s really dirty, soak it in a mild cleaner overnight, but rinse well to avoid chemical residue. Dry it completely before reinstalling to prevent mold. I alternate between the two sets of filters that come with it, so one is always ready while the other dries. This keeps performance consistent and avoids downtime.
• Weekly Brush Checks: These PVC rollers wear down over time, especially on rough surfaces. Run your fingers along them; if they’re frayed or flattened, replace them. I swap mine every six months, and it makes a huge difference in scrubbing power. To clean, just brush off stuck leaves or algae with a soft tool—don’t use anything abrasive. Regular attention here ensures it scrubs effectively every time.
• Track and Wheel Maintenance: Inspect for cracks or debris buildup. I wipe them with a damp cloth after use, ensuring no sand grinds away at the mechanisms. If it starts slipping, lubricate lightly with silicone spray, but sparingly to avoid attracting dirt. This simple step prevents bigger issues down the line.
• Cable Management Practices: Always uncoil fully before use and store loosely coiled, not tightly wound. I hang mine on a hook in the garage to avoid kinks. If you notice fraying, stop using it immediately—safety first. Proper handling extends the cable’s life significantly.
• Post-Use Rinsing: Lift it out by the handle, tilt to drain water, then hose the exterior. This removes chlorine or salt that could corrode parts. Never submerge the power supply or let it get wet. I do this every time, and it keeps the unit looking new.
• Proper Storage Habits: Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sun. I cover mine with a towel to block dust. If you live in a cold area, bring it indoors during winter to prevent freezing damage. Good storage prevents unnecessary wear.
• Occasional Diagnostics: Plug it in without water and observe movement—if anything seems off, like unusual noises, check the impeller for blockages. I use a toothpick to clear small debris from there. This quick check catches problems early.
• Pool Chemistry Balance: High pH or calcium can clog filters faster, so test water weekly. I find maintaining levels reduces maintenance frequency. It ties into overall pool health, benefiting both you and the cleaner.
• Periodic Deep Cleans: Disassemble partially every few months. Remove side panels and wipe internals with a soft cloth. Reassemble carefully, following the manual’s diagrams. This keeps internals free of buildup.
• Bearing Replacements When Needed: If it stops moving, bearings might need replacing. I did this once; it’s straightforward with basic tools. Order genuine parts to ensure fit. Don’t ignore squeaks or halts.

By following these steps, my Dolphin has stayed reliable through seasons. You invest a few minutes post-use, and it pays off with consistent performance. Think of it as pampering your pool buddy—it’ll reward you with effortless cleans.

Comparison of Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus With Other Brands

• Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Vs. Polaris Maxx Pool Cleaner

You might be eyeing the Polaris Maxx for its robust build, and I get it—it’s a pressure-side cleaner that hooks into your pool’s system, which can feel more integrated. But in my view, the Dolphin pulls ahead with its independent electric operation; I don’t have to worry about straining my pump like with the Polaris.

The Maxx shines in handling large debris with its vortex technology, sucking up leaves efficiently, but it can be louder during runs, something that bugged me when comparing notes with friends. My Dolphin, on the other hand, is whisper-quiet and excels at fine dirt and algae with those dual brushes, leaving walls spotless without the noise.

Price-wise, the Polaris might come in a bit higher for similar features, around $900, while my Dolphin at $700-800 feels like better bang for the buck. If your pool gets tons of foliage, the Maxx could edge it out, but for everyday thoroughness, I’d stick with the Dolphin every time.

• Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Vs. WYBOT Pool Cleaner

The WYBOT caught my eye as a cordless option, which sounds freeing—no tangles to deal with, right? I talked to a neighbor who has one, and they love the battery-powered mobility for quick dips in and out.

However, when I dug deeper, the Dolphin wins on efficiency; WYBOT models like the Osprey or L1 guzzle more energy, potentially hiking your bills, while my Dolphin sips power during its two-hour cycles.

Cleaning-wise, the WYBOT does a decent job on floors but struggles more on walls compared to the Dolphin’s reliable climbing and scrubbing. I appreciate the WYBOT’s affordability, often under $500, making it tempting for budget shoppers, but it lacks the smart navigation that lets my Dolphin cover every inch without repeats.

Plus, recharging the WYBOT means downtime, whereas I just plug in the Dolphin and go. If portability is your top priority, go WYBOT, but for consistent, hands-off performance that saves time and money long-term, the Dolphin is my pick.

• Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Vs. Polaris Atlas XT Pool Cleaner

Now, the Polaris Atlas XT is a suction-side beast at a lower price point, around $400, which made me pause—why spend more on the Dolphin? From what I’ve seen in forums, the Atlas connects directly to your skimmer or pump, filtering everything through your system, which is great for fine silt but can overload your basket with bigger stuff like leaves.

My Dolphin operates standalone, capturing debris in its own basket so it doesn’t tax my filter, keeping things balanced. Setup for the Atlas involves more plumbing tweaks, which turned me off as someone who wants plug-and-play ease, while dropping the Dolphin in takes seconds. It climbs walls better too, something the Atlas might skip if suction varies.

Owners say the Atlas is durable for basic cleans, but it misses the active brushing that makes my pool shimmer. If you’re on a tight budget and okay with integration, the Atlas works fine, but for independence and superior results without the hassle, the Dolphin justifies the extra cost.

Final Thoughts: Make The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Yours Today

After all this time with it, I stand by my choice—the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a must-buy for effortless pool care. You’ll love the time it saves and the spotless results. Don’t wait; grab one and enjoy your pool like never before.