Our Expertise: Phinisi & Catamaran Specialists

Our shipyard’s reputation is founded on a deep specialisation in two distinct vessel archetypes: the iconic Indonesian Phinisi and the contemporary performance catamaran. This dual focus, perfected over build cycles typically lasting 18 to 24 months, allows our teams of master craftsmen to cultivate unparalleled expertise. We are not a generalist boatyard; we are a dedicated Bali yacht builder focused on delivering excellence in these specific classes.

The Modern Phinisi Schooner

The soul of the Indonesian archipelago is captured in the Phinisi, a boat-building artform inscribed on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list in 2017. Originally from the Bugis seafarers, we honour this heritage using traditional materials like ironwood (kayu ulin), with a density exceeding 1,000 kg/m³, for the keel. We then elevate the Phinisi for the luxury market by integrating modern naval architecture, SOLAS-compliant safety systems, and bespoke interiors worthy of a five-star private villa.

The Luxury Power & Sailing Catamaran

For clients prioritising stability and efficiency, our custom catamarans are an exceptional platform. Designed for Indonesia, our multihulls provide expansive living spaces, a shallow draft of just 1.5 metres for exploring remote coves, and superior fuel economy, consuming up to 30% less than a comparable monohull. We work with leading naval architects, utilising composite or aluminium construction to achieve the optimal balance of weight, strength, and performance for demanding charter itineraries.

The Build Process: From Concept to Christening

Our project management philosophy is a cornerstone of the build process, guaranteeing complete transparency through a structured, multi-stage approach. We ensure clients have total clarity with detailed weekly progress reports, which include a minimum of 10 key performance indicators, and access to over 500 geotagged construction photos for each build. This disciplined system, managed from our Benoa offices, mitigates risks and ensures the final vessel is a perfect realisation of the client’s vision.

Featured Projects: Detailed Case Studies

Our portfolio is the truest testament to our capabilities. With over 15 custom vessels launched since 2010, each project is a unique collaboration reflecting the owner’s ambition and our commitment to quality. Below are examples of recent commissions, with build costs ranging from US$1.5M to over US$5M, that showcase our work as a premier Bali yacht builder.

Case Study 1: Phinisi ‘Samudra Raya’

Commissioned by a leading liveaboard operator for the Komodo and Raja Ampat charter routes, the 45-metre ‘Samudra Raya’ is a masterclass in modern Phinisi construction. The brief demanded seven spacious, en-suite guest cabins, a dedicated dive centre, and robust, redundant systems for remote operations. Our team integrated a powerful marine diesel engine, advanced navigation electronics, and a commercial-grade galley, all within a classically proportioned ironwood and teak hull. The project was delivered in 22 months, and the vessel has since set a new benchmark for luxury adventure charters in the region.

Case Study 2: Catamaran ‘Senja’

Designed for a private family for extended cruising, the 18-metre catamaran ‘Senja’ balances performance with comfort. The owners required a light vessel for a small crew, with a focus on sustainable systems. We utilised composite construction and incorporated a 2.5 kW solar array and a water maker producing 150 litres per hour for enhanced autonomy. The interior features three cabins and custom furniture from local, sustainable woods, exemplifying our ability to deliver personalised, modern multihulls.

Meet the Master Craftsmen

A yacht is more than a collection of materials; it is the embodiment of the skill, passion, and experience of the people who build it. Our core team represents a unique fusion of generational Indonesian boat-building knowledge and contemporary European project management and engineering standards.

Pak Wayan Sudira – Master Shipwright

Hailing from a long line of boat builders, Pak Wayan brings over 35 years of hands-on experience working with Indonesian hardwoods. His intuitive understanding of timber and traditional construction techniques is the foundation of every Phinisi we build. He leads our team of carpenters and shipwrights, ensuring that every joint is perfect and every plank is true.

Jean-Luc Dubois – Lead Naval Architect

Educated in Southampton and with a decade of experience at a leading European design firm, Jean-Luc bridges the gap between classic aesthetics and modern performance. He oversees all technical drawings, structural engineering, and systems integration, ensuring our vessels meet and exceed international classification standards (such as RINA or BKI) for safety and stability.

Why Build in Bali?

The decision to build a significant asset like a custom yacht involves more than just construction quality; it involves logistics, oversight, and value. Building in Bali offers a distinct strategic advantage over traditional, more remote shipyards in Sulawesi or elsewhere. Our location in the Benoa-Serangan marine corridor provides a perfect ecosystem for luxury yacht construction.

Clients benefit from Bali’s world-class infrastructure, including an international airport with global connections, luxury accommodation, and reliable logistics. This allows for convenient and cost-effective site visits for owners, captains, and project managers. Furthermore, Bali is a hub for skilled artisans, from master wood carvers to expert finishers, allowing us to achieve a level of interior detail that is difficult to replicate. We leverage our location to source the finest Indonesian materials directly, ensuring quality control from the forest to the finished vessel, and providing a superior, more accessible build experience.

Client Testimonials & Partner Logos

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical timeframe for a custom build?

A custom build timeline depends significantly on the vessel’s size, complexity, and level of interior customisation. As a general guide, a 30-35 metre luxury Phinisi can take between 18 to 24 months from contract signing to handover. A 15-20 metre catamaran may have a slightly shorter build time of 14 to 20 months. We provide a detailed project schedule with key milestones at the outset of every commission to ensure full transparency for our clients.

Which classification societies do you work with?

We build to rigorous international standards to ensure the safety, seaworthiness, and resale value of your vessel. We most commonly work with the Indonesian classification society, Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI), which is essential for commercial charter registration in Indonesia. For clients requiring international classification for global cruising or flagging, we have direct experience building to the standards of RINA (Registro Italiano Navale) and are capable of collaborating with other IACS members like Bureau Veritas or Lloyd’s Register upon request.

How do you source your timber and other materials?

We pride ourselves on our responsible and quality-focused sourcing. Our ironwood (ulin) and teak are procured through long-standing relationships with certified suppliers who adhere to legal and sustainable forestry practices in Kalimantan and Java. This direct sourcing allows us to inspect and select the best timber. For all technical components—from engines and generators to electronics and safety gear—we use our established supply chain to import from reputable international brands, ensuring reliability and global warranty support.

Can I visit the shipyard during the construction process?

Absolutely. We encourage and welcome client visits. Our strategic location in the Tanjung Benoa area, just a short drive from Bali’s international airport, is a key advantage. We facilitate regular site inspections for owners, their representatives, or appointed surveyors. These visits are crucial for collaboration, allowing for real-time decisions on interior details and finishes. We provide regular, detailed photographic and written progress reports for clients who cannot visit in person.

What is the payment structure for a new build?

Our payment structure is based on a transparent, milestone-based system that aligns with the construction progress. An initial deposit secures the build slot and covers design and material procurement. Subsequent payments are scheduled upon the completion of key, verifiable stages, such as keel laying, hull completion, engine installation, and final launch. This ensures that payments are directly tied to tangible progress, providing financial security and clarity for the client throughout the project.

Do you offer interior design services?

Yes, we offer a comprehensive interior design service. Clients can work directly with our in-house design team to create a fully custom interior that reflects their personal style and operational needs. We are also highly experienced in collaborating with a client’s chosen external interior designer or architect. We see this as a partnership, translating creative vision into a functional and beautifully executed marine interior, using a wide palette of high-quality materials, fabrics, and finishes.

What kind of warranty and after-sales support do you provide?

We stand behind the quality of our craftsmanship. Each new vessel comes with a comprehensive 12-month shipyard warranty covering structural integrity and all systems installed by our team. The major components, such as engines and generators, are covered by their respective manufacturer warranties, which we help facilitate. Our Bali location also means we are well-positioned to provide ongoing maintenance, repair, and refit support for our clients operating within the Indonesian archipelago.

How does building in Bali compare to building in Europe?

Building in Bali offers a unique value proposition. Clients can access world-class traditional craftsmanship, particularly in timber work, at a more competitive cost base than in European shipyards. This allows for a higher degree of customisation and quality of materials for a given budget. While European yards excel in certain high-tech composite or metal fabrication, our focus as a Bali yacht builder is on delivering exceptional value in the luxury Phinisi and semi-custom catamaran markets, combined with unparalleled local expertise.

Can you assist with vessel registration and flagging?

Yes, navigating the administrative aspects of yacht ownership is a key part of our service. We provide comprehensive assistance with registering the vessel in Indonesia for commercial charter operations, which is a complex process. We can also manage the process for flagging the vessel under various international registries depending on the client’s preference and intended cruising area. Our team handles the necessary documentation, surveys, and liaison with maritime authorities to ensure a smooth and compliant handover.

What makes your Phinisi builds different from those in Sulawesi?

While we honour the Bugis heritage born in Sulawesi, our approach is fundamentally different. As a modern Bali yacht builder, we integrate professional project management, stringent quality control, and advanced naval architecture from day one. Our clients benefit from the convenience and superior infrastructure of Bali for oversight, as well as our expertise in incorporating modern luxury systems, soundproofing, and interior finishing to a superyacht standard—a level of refinement not typically found in more traditional, remote yards.