phinisi yachts

About Phinisi yachts

For centuries, the Phinisi yachts, also called Sulawesi Schooners or Palari, have been cruising throughout the Indonesian archipelago. The Phinisi reflects a rich maritime heritage that has been an integral part of Indonesia’s culture and history. In 2017, the Art of Boatbuilding in South Sulawesi was even inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (UNESCO).

What are Phinisis?

Historically, the design of Phinisi boats has evolved from single-masted sailing vessels to the more common two-masted vessels seen today. Phinisis are made from tropical ironwood (known locally as ‘ulin’) and teak. Their design includes a distinctive curved stern and prow. The two masts have seven sails, allowing them to maneuver effectively in the Indonesian seas. The term “pinisi” technically refers to the rig itself. However, in reality, the word describes the gaff-ketch type of rig. 

Traditional Phinisi building

The traditional crafters of these vessels are, among other tribes, the Bugi people from South Sulawesi. In general, four distinct cultural sub-sets exist that are specialized in building the traditional boats; The Konjo , Mandar , Bugis and Makassarese . 

Around Bira, in South Sulawesi, the crafting of Phinisis has been handed down for generations and is often carried out only with the most basic tools. The distinct shipbuilding culture originates from a myth based on the creation of the first boat ever built by their ancestors. Mystical beliefs and the mythology of boat building still permeate the entire crafting process. The building process still involves many rituals and ceremonies, highlighting the spiritual bond between the builders and the sea.

Traditional Boat Building in Bira

The Cultural Significance of Phinisi Boats

The cultural significance of Phinisi boat building runs deep in the Bugis and Makassar communities. It is closely tied to their seafaring heritage. For centuries, these communities have relied on Phinisi boats for trade, fishing, and transportation. Furthermore, the vessels have played an important role in their cultural and social practices. In addition to their practical uses, Phinisis are also highly valued for their aesthetic qualities. The boats are often adorned with intricate carvings and brightly painted motifs, which reflect the individual style and personality of the owner.

Century Old Craftsmanship in Sulawesi

Traditional Phinisi Yachts today

The  modern Phinisi is now crafted from Ironwood and Bangkirai, but retains the same unique design, that has been used to sail across the Indonesian Archipelago since the 17th century. Nowadays, the Phinisi boats are a mixture of ancient traditions, combined with modern-day design, amenities, and technology. Luxurious master cabins, beautiful interiors and fine dining are just a few highlights of today’s state of exploring Indonesia on a Phinisi.

However, the boats are more than just sailing vessels. They express the  spirit of Indonesian culture and the continuity of maritime tradition in the modern world of private yacht charters . Chartering a traditional wooden Phinisi in Indonesia is one of the most unique holiday experiences. The freedom you feel and the close connection to nature is indescribable. These yacht charters are suitable for families, honeymoons, and solo travelers.

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Phinisi Armada has embarked on a quest to build the first Australian-registered fleet of luxury Phinisi Super Yachts in History.

Phinisi Armada also has connected with a number of Phinisi Yachts in Indonesia and can organise charters, diving and cultural experiences in some of the most beautiful, untouched paradises, we can organise all aspects of your trip.     

BIRA is the first vessel in the Phinisi Armada, built by the Konjo Tribe of Bira Beach, South Sulawesi. Bira is Famous for its white sandy beach, clear light blue water, and its boatbuilding heritage. The owners wanted to honour the Bugis people and place of where she was built, along with acknowledging the Haji’s and boat building community by sharing this special place with those who sail on BIRA. BIRA will be the first Phinisi to return to Australian shores in over a century.

Available for Charter from October 2023 Be the first to charter Phinisi Bira and be a part of history

• 38.72 Metre Vessel with a Cruising Speed of 6-8Knots
• Beautiful timberwork and décor with Air-conditioning throughout
• Marine VSAT - ensuring internet connection from any location
• Dive capabilities
• 3 Top Deck Luxury Suites & 2 Below Deck Suites catering for 12 Overnight Guest
• Event space for 36 Day Charter Guests
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• Equipment for adventure activities
• Relaxing spaces indoor and outdoor all over the vessel
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• A Knowledgeable Captain and 7 Crew for your experience on History, Maritime, Marine, & Culture
• Highest standard of safety regulations and equipment (Australian Marine Safety Authority)

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Phinisi Yachts in Indonesia - UNESCO World Heritage

Written By: Sebastian Maier

The great age of sail, which ended in the west in the early twentieth century, never quite ended in Indonesia. Here, traditional wooden yachts, the phinisi schooners, still cruise the Indian Ocean like they did hundreds of years ago.

However now they are equipped with modern safety equipment and high comfort standards, perfect for yacht charters in Indonesia .

The ancient art of Indonesian seafaring cemented its place as an intangible cultural heritage site with the humble phinisi schooner, and in south Sulawesi, the crafting of these yachts has been handed down for countless generations and now been declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Sulawesi traditional boat building recognised as world cultural heritage

With just under 1,800 islands scattered large and small across the equator, Indonesia has long been revolutionising the art of seafaring and boat building. Within the last several centuries, as sea trade and ports became established and human and cultural connections were made, the sprawling Indonesian archipelago became known as a diverse cultural paradise, both on land and at sea. These seafarers not only played significant roles in the world’s spice trade of ancient times, but they knowingly developed, evolved and honed the craft of boat building.

If one visits Indonesia, it doesn’t take long to find evidence of a strong and resilient traditional maritime heritage spanning centuries, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has noticed that. In December 2017, UNESCO formally recognized the  cultural significance of boat building  in Indonesia when a unanimous vote of the 12th session of its Unique Cultural Heritage Committee cemented the art of boatbuilding in south Sulawesi as a site not only worth preserving, but also worth world recognition.

Also known as the Sulawesi schooner, it was the latest addition to UNESCO’s list of unique Indonesian cultural establishments including the stunning textile, batik; the ancient form of storytelling, Wayang puppetry; the Saman dance of the Gayo people in Sumatra; and the asymmetrical Kris dagger, amongst select others.

Knowledge and skill were passed on through generations of craftsmen, who developed tight-knit communities around the Indonesian art of boat building. The phinisis they built featured a tall, powerful, topsail-ketch rig with unusual, permanently standing gaff booms, and they have traditionally been built on the beach, where fresh logs arrive from the forests of Kalimantan and Sulawesi.

Traditionally, the process of crafting a phinisi, from log to maiden voyage, involved several ceremonies and rituals, starting with the choosing of the right tree for the right element of the boat. The various ceremonies were critical to continuing and celebrating the building process, particularly the laying of the keel.

The phinisi as a craft

Historically, phinisis were traded and sailed in the 19 th and 20 th centuries by the mariners of south Sulawesi. Nicknamed The Vikings of Southeast Asia , the Bugis and Makassan people are largely responsible for the powerful rigs.

Then and now

In previous years, teakwood, a once plentiful tropical hardwood, may have been favoured because of its high oil content, tensile strength and tight grain. However, because teak is no longer plentiful and considered quite soft and inferior by boat builders, these days, ironwood and bankirai are the preferred tree species for boat building material.

Because of its durability and high strength, bankirai is not difficult to work with. Ironwood, locally called kayu ulin, is also one of the hardest and heaviest woods in Indonesia, and despite its weight, is a favored material because it is not susceptible to tropical termites and fungus.

As early as the 1970s, the addition of small engine morphed the sailing phinisi into a well-known vessel used commercially around Indonesia, for tourism and transportation. Unique, time-defying construction and continued rituals surrounding the existence of these revered vessels are part of what UNESCO looks for when nominating a cultural and traditional artifact for UNESCO Unique Cultural Heritage. 

Cruising on a phinisi

Cruising on a phinisi is different from yacht charters anywhere else in the world. Not only does the Indonesian Archipelago offer a beauty and diversity that can not be found anywhere else in the world, but also the unique yachts used to explore these stunning islands are different from anywhere else.

Many phinisi yachts have been adapted for the comfort and and adventure of divers, snorkellers, groups of friends and small families who intend on making a memorable journey into the lesser known parts of Southeast Asia. With sundecks, open kitchens, beautiful saloons and open design floor plans, both adventure and luxury are fast becoming one of the most interesting ways to explore Indonesia in a unique way.

Exploring Indonesia on a phinisi yacht is like travelling back in time: a return to classical sailing, giving one a feeling of real adventure and discovery.

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Your trusted phinisi booking hub in indonesia, experience the magic of indonesia, sail the phinisi way.

Welcome to Indonesia Phinisi Cruises, your premier One-Stop Hub for Indonesia phinisi cruise booking centre in the breathtaking archipelago of Indonesia. Indonesia Phinisi Cruises is your gateway to an array of meticulously curated Indonesia cruises and Komodo yacht charters designed to immerse you in the unparalleled beauty and culture of Indonesia’s islands and seas. Step aboard our authentic Indonesian Phinisi Liveaboard vessels or Komodo AC cabin boats where the echoes of tradition harmonize with the tranquillity of these breath-taking destinations.

Indonesia Phinisi Cruises serves as Indonesia Phinisi cruise booking centre is your gateway to exploring a myriad of Indonesia liveaboard options, each collection of Phinisi yachts charter and Komodo AC cabin boats promising unparalleled comfort, safety, and Komodo sailing adventure. Book your Indonesia Phinisi cruise adventure today with collection of our Phinisi yachts charter and Komodo AC cabin boats for Komodo sailing and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome aboard !

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Prana by Atzaró

The ultimate luxury travel experience, enjoy discovering the last untouched paradise aboard the best yacht charter indonesia.

Prana by Atzaró is the biggest and most luxurious phinisi yacht in the world, sailing the paradise seas and islands of Indonesia. The luxury  yacht charter Indonesia is a unique travel experience,  a maritime voyage into paradise.

Cruising aboard Prana by Atzaró you will explore some of the last untouched paradises on earth. Whilst travelling in utmost luxury enjoy discovery, adventure, quality, service, spectacular diving, fine dining, spa, relaxation and more.

The nine sumptuous suites and 900sqm of luxuriated living space across four decks make Prana by Atzaró the best and most luxurious authentic phinisi yacht to traverse the paradise waters of Komodo National Park, The Spice Islands and Raja Ampat all year.

Prana by Atzaró is the biggest and most luxurious phinisi yacht in the world with more than 900 sqm of usable space across four beautiful decks and nine elegant suites, offering a unique experience in luxury travel.

The elegant luxury suites are fully soundproofed and created by uniting the superiority of rich vintage fabrics with luxury new world textures.

Prana by Atzaró offers an experience of a lifetime. Sun salutations on the rooftop yoga deck, surrender to deep relaxation in the onboard spa and as the sun sets, cuisine al-fresco, followed by cinema under the stars.

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Prana by Atzaró sails the most beautiful destinations. Komodo National Park has crystal clear waters, pink beaches and unique coral reef. The Spice Islands are island jewels. Raja Ampat with its turquoise waters and 1500 islands is one of the last untouched paradises on earth.

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Explore the magical islands of Indonesia with Prana by Atzaró. Trek unique landscapes and take in dreamy views, kayak and waterboard clear turquoise waters. Dive deep and discover coral reefs, manta rays, turtles and the paradise beneath the waves.

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Prana by Atzaró is available for full yacht charter in Indonesia all year. Voyage following the seasons, January to April and December in Raja Ampat, May and November the Spice Islands and June to October in Komodo National Park.

Voyage paradise seas and discover the world’s remotest islands with the most unique yacht charter Indonesia. Prana by Atzaró offers unique and tailormade experiences to meet your dream holiday goals.

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Phinisi traditional boat building, an ultimate cruising experience in Indonesia

Inscribed on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017, Phinisi boat building is the traditional boat building process in Sulawesi

1. Yacht construction Indonesia

Phinisi traditional boat building stands as a captivating testament to Indonesia’s rich maritime heritage. It is particularly rooted in the Indonesian boat building in Sulawesi. The term “Phinisi” originates from the Bugis-Makassar language and refers to a distinct style of sailing vessel characterized by its towering masts and intricate rigging. What sets Phinisi boat building apart is the meticulous craftsmanship that combines age-old techniques with a profound understanding of the seas. Traditionally constructed without the use of blueprints, Phinisi boats are born from the skillful hands of master shipwrights who pass down their knowledge through generations. On top of that, the vessels are typically built from locally sourced hardwoods, and the construction process involves an intimate connection with nature and the elements.

Today, Phinisi boats, with their elegant lines and distinctive silhouette, continue to grace the Indonesian waters. As Pacific High Cruises pays homage to this ancient craft in the construction of yachts like Senja, Dewata and Nataraja, the legacy of Phinisi boat building continues to thrive, contributing to the allure of Indonesian maritime culture.

2. Boat Builders Indonesia

Yann Martinie de Maisonneuve and his team of skilled carpenters have built five Phinisi ketches since 2009 and are renowned for their expertise in Phinisi boat building at the shipyard in Bira, Sulawesi. With a passion for preserving traditional maritime craftsmanship, they have become leaders in the art of constructing these iconic Indonesian vessels. The shipyard in Bira serves as a hub of creativity and precision. Each craftsman’s dedication and attention to detail contribute to the creation of seaworthy masterpieces that not only reflect the rich maritime heritage of the region but also meet modern standards of quality and functionality.

Discover Pacific High Phinisi Traditional Boat Building Indonesia

3. Indonesia boat charters

Teak wood, known for its durability and rich aesthetics, plays a pivotal role in crafting Pacific High yachts. Selected for its resilience against the harsh marine environment, teak ensures these boats withstand the challenges of the open seas while embodying timeless elegance. The meticulous detailing of the design showcases a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary ingenuity. Each curve and contour reflects a seamless fusion of artistry and functionality, creating vessels that are not only seaworthy but also a testament to the mastery of naval architecture.

Senja private yacht charter by Pacific High offers a 25m2 Master Cabin with open sea views

Embark on private cruises in Indonesia aboard luxurious yachts equipped for the most discerning travelers. Whether you choose a private sailing charter, boat charter, or a dive yacht charter, every voyage promises a bespoke experience. Explore the mesmerizing Komodo Islands, known for their majestic landscapes and Komodo dragons, on a Komodo luxury cruise or yacht charter. For those seeking underwater wonders, indulge in snorkeling cruises in Indonesia. Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Raja Ampat with a Raja Ampat yacht charter, ensuring an unmatched luxury cruise through one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. Private charters in Indonesia guarantee an intimate, personalized journey, blending adventure and luxury seamlessly in this tropical haven.

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