Cover Phinisi, like Amandira (pictured above) are the best way to explore the Indonesian archipelago
Phinisi, like Amandira (pictured above) are the best way to explore the Indonesian archipelago
1 / 1
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for you—but make it luxury, by sailing aboard one of these stunning traditional phinisi sailing yachts around the Indonesian archipelago
The Indonesian archipelago is home to fascinating stories—from tales of pirates to its role as the historical epicentre of the global spice trade. It’s also achingly beautiful: Komodo National Park with its plunging savannahs, arid in the summer and bursting with life in the winter; countless deserted islands and beaches, whose sands shift from white to black volcanic sand to dreamy pink; mountainous outcrops; and turquoise oceans teeming with brightly coloured tropical fish and coral reefs.
In recent years, more travellers are curious about discovering the archipelago’s magic—often by boat, for an authentic experience that echoes the region’s past. But we would never suggest taking just any boat. If you’re going to explore this region—island hopping, taking scenic hikes that lead to breathtaking vistas of the islands, scuba diving and stargazing—why not do it while enjoying the luxurious spoils of the region’s most majestic sailing vessels.
Amandira
Island-hopping, but make it Aman, with Amandira, the hotel brand’s private yacht. With a name that translates to “peaceful intrepid” in Sanskrit, Amandira moves gently through the Indonesian archipelago.
Through tailored itineraries, such as island hopping and diving guests can discover its hidden beaches and thriving wildlife in style. Inspired by the traditional Indonesian phinisi, or trading ships of the 20th century, the 52-metre, twin-masted vessel was custom- designed and handcrafted from local hardwoods by Konjo artisans.
On board and at your service is a crew of 14, including two chefs, a massage therapist and a divemaster.
The five-cabin yacht can be hired on a nightly basis, for a customised voyage, or for the six-night Journey "Across the Sea" package. The charter begins in Bali at Amankila, a resort that stretches across the Lombok Strait coastline beneath the island’s volcanic Mount Agung. Guests then sail for three nights to Amanwana, the only resort on the sparsely populated Moyo Island, famous for its wildlife, for two nights of glamping in luxury tents.
1 / 1
Vela Sailing Yacht
Co-owners Dimitri Tran and Adrien Portier had a vision of building a spectacular vessel that bridges the gap between a traditional boat and a superyacht. On the outside, Vela is a traditional phinisi; on the inside, she is a celebration of the nation’s exceptional creative talent—featuring everything from an art collection curated by a contemporary Indonesian gallery to custom ceramics by Balinese artisans, complemented by world- class finishings including Hermès furniture and bathroom fittings by Philippe Starck.
Available for private charter throughout the year, all itineraries are tailor-made to individual groups’ preferences and curiosities, from morning yoga on the deck to hiking, and wellness treatments by the on-board spa therapist. Charters to more remote parts of the archipelago, such as the Spice Islands, the Forgotten Islands, Sumbawa and the north coast of Flores, can also be arranged.
1 / 2
Celestia
In 2023, brother-sister duo Jason Tabalujan and Jasmine Chong launched Celestia, a gorgeous phinisi built for private charters.
But it’s not just business—it’s personal. Following the devastation of Covid-19, Chong and Tabalujan dreamt of creating a “floating villa” where multiple generations of their family could come together while exploring the beautiful region and reconnecting with their Indonesian roots after spending years studying and working abroad.
The vessel’s design pays homage to the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity-recognised phinisi boatbuilding tradition, using sustainably sourced ironwood and teak to honour centuries-old techniques. But the yacht also integrates modern standards, with a steel-reinforced wooden hull and interiors by acclaimed designer Deirdre Renniers, who also designed Amandira.
Dining is a highlight, with chef Wayan Kresna Yasa at the kitchen’s helm. Originally from Nusa Penida, a relatively undeveloped island south of Bali, he trained in the US and did a stint at Michelin-starred restaurant BlueHill at Stone Barns. His dishes celebrate indigenous ingredients with fine-dining finesse, and are crafted daily based on the catch, the island and the story he wants to tell: think wild- caught tuna with sambal matah, tamarind duck confit, and pandan panna cotta.
Above Phinisi boatbuilding traditions recognised by the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity were used to construct Celestia
Phinisi boatbuilding traditions recognised by the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity were used to construct Celestia
1 / 2
Silolona
With its dramatic black sails, Silolona makes quite the impression as it weaves its way through the islands. A luxurious take on phinisi, the 50-metre wooden schooner was built by Sulawesi craftsmen and is fitted with modern comforts, like air conditioning in each stateroom.
There are five rooms in total, as well as common spaces, including a spectacular teak deck built for alfresco dining, sunbathing and stargazing. Throughout, guests will find hand-made joinery and rare Indonesian art, textiles and antiques collected from across the archipelago, intended to evoke the spirit of the historic Spice Route. Panoramic windows in the indoor lounge and dining area ensure guests never miss the ever-changing dramatic views.
Spend the days paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding and—with its status as a fully licensed PADI Dive Center—experiencing one of the world’s most biodiverse regions in all its vibrant glory. When I interviewed American actress Susan Sarandon some years ago, she told me that her time on board Silolona was one of her most memorable trips, saying, “[We] went through the Ring of Fire, which was just extraordinary. It was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip that I took with a few friends. I slept on deck, watchedthe sunrise and sunset and went snorkelling with whale sharks.”
If it's good enough for our girl, Susan...
1 / 1
Coco Marett is a writer and editor who grew up between Hong Kong and Melbourne. She currently heads the travel section for Tatler Asia, and manages the Tatler Travel account on Instagram. She is known for her features on unique, under-the-radar properties and destinations. She's also known for her in-depth interviews that paint a refreshingly candid portrait of influential figures across various industries —from artists to political figures, CEOs to celebrity chefs. Follow her on Instagram @cocomarett
