Every charter we plan is shaped by the people on board: their pace, their interests, the small things that turn a good week into the kind of trip people remember in detail years later. The stories below are drawn from recent voyages, told in our guests’ own words.
They speak less to the obvious moments: the famous dive sites, the photographed beaches, and more to the quieter ones. A morning on deck with no other boats in sight. A grandparent learning to snorkel for the first time. The captain pointing out a species of bird the group hadn’t known existed.
These are the trips we plan for, and the moments we work towards. We hope they offer a clearer sense of what an Indonesian charter can actually feel like.
Amandira: Private Waters in Raja Ampat
A traditional phinisi run with the considered service character of the Aman group: Amandira is restrained, polished, deeply attentive. Particularly well suited to smaller groups who want to reach the further corners of Raja Ampat without competing for anchorage with anyone else.
“Speechless. The boat and the crew were amazing. AMAN never fails. Exclusivity and luxury guaranteed. We literally spent 6 days sailing and anchored without encountering any other boat. Incredible… Wayag (and this trip in general) is indescribable – it is without a doubt in my top 3.”
Prana: Thoughtful Details & Wild Beauty
The most successful phinisi in the region, with a streamlined crew and a strong on-board wellness offering. Prana by Atzaro is particularly well suited to wellness-focused groups and milestone family trips, though availability is the main planning challenge.
“We were absolutely thrilled with every aspect of the experience. Specifically, we were impressed by the meticulous attention to detail, such as the beachside barbecue, and captivated by the stunning scenery. In fact, I would even describe the destination as one of the last paradises on earth.”
Vela: A Quiet Kind of Magic
Owned by hoteliers, which shows in her contemporary, design-led atmosphere; Vela is closer to a private residence than a traditional phinisi. Her crew is consistently mentioned by guests for being not just attentive but warm.
“Thank you for an incredible and unforgettable trip in Raja Ampat! You made this cruise a very special experience for all of us. Our memories will accompany us for the rest of our life, and we missed your smiles and friendliness the moment we left Vela.”
Lamima: Expertly Guided, Beautifully Delivered
The largest phinisi we work with, Lamima is owned by a former Mediterranean superyacht captain whose European service style shows throughout the running of the boat. Particularly well suited to groups who want the warmth of a phinisi without losing the polish of European yachting.
“5 stars, A++. The crew is second to none. Very thoughtful, responsive, professional, fun, and always going above and beyond to please. Just trust the experts and enjoy the ride – Raja Ampat is a big area and I really get the sense from speaking with others that we got to all the best spots.”
“The boat is truly a work of art and a joy to be on. This was even better than we imagined and while it was supposed to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, we are seriously considering coming back to see another region.”
Dunia Baru: Service from the Heart
Eight years in the build, with a meticulous attention to quality that comes from a project pursued without compromise. Dunia Baru‘s layout suits multigenerational groups, but it’s the crew that guests come back to in their reviews.
“Reading the superb messages from past guests who were fortunate to encounter the masterful crew of the Dunia Baru, it is clear they have not lost the joy of service.”
“Our entire family’s requests (for watermelon juice and chocolate milk and red wine and mango mojitos…) were met with beaming smiles and instant fulfillment. Each meal was surpassed by the last… I will most definitely miss the kitchen!”
“Having just returned from our extraordinary sojourn aboard Dunia Baru I wanted to thank you. Dunia Baru has immediately made us feel welcome with her warm, elegant and understated personality. The crew anticipated with grace, creativity and kindness all our requests.”
Alexa: Wildlife Encounters & Wild Island Trails
The original single-cabin phinisi in Indonesia, built around a full crew of seven looking after just two guests. Alexa is particularly well suited to honeymoons, anniversary trips, or anyone whose priority is total privacy at sea.
“We were the first ever on Alexa to be lucky enough to spot a Bryce’s Whale, and followed it with the tender for over an hour. An extremely rare and lucky moment being at the right place at the right time.”
“Galeb the chef loves hiking so was thrilled to have guests who wanted to hike every day and guided us… the view was the best of the trip – and not another soul around.”
Oracle: Manta Rays, Night Dives & Hospitality
A two-cabin phinisi at an unusually generous crew-to-guest ratio, Oracle offers close to bespoke service at a smaller scale. Suited to groups who want a relaxed, social atmosphere alongside serious diving and exploration.
“Beyond good vibes! Thank you to the cast and crew of Oracle. You know how to put on a good show: from the gigantic mantas to a night dive with all manner of teeny tiny little creatures – it was spectacular, and the food and drink were each and all Michelin Star delicious.”
“The entire crew was so fun, warm, smiling, happy, and caring… Thank you for letting us join your beautiful family even though it was only for four days. We really cannot wait to come back again.”
Dewata: Natural Beauty in Komodo
A two-cabin yacht with the rare layout of both cabins side by side, Dewata is well suited to two couples or close family travelling together. A strong track record on longer charters, where her intimate scale and capable crew become a real advantage.
“The actual Phinisi fascinated us with its special construction without screws or nails on Sulawesi. Everyone that told us that the Komodo Islands would be overly touristy… they couldn’t be more wrong. We found untouched islands, huge healthy coral reefs and more turtles than we’ve ever seen (and we’ve seen a lot of turtles). The peace we enjoyed on the trip was needed so much—especially with our busy and hectic lives.”
Why These Stories Matter To Us
No two charters we plan are the same. Some guests come for diving, some for wildlife, some for time together in a place far from anywhere. Some come to celebrate, some to recover, some to introduce their children to a part of the world they’ve loved for decades.
The stories above aren’t promotional copy — they’re the moments our guests have written to us about, often months after the trip ended, when something specific has stayed with them. We share them because they tell you more about what an Indonesian charter actually contains than any itinerary or brochure can.
If you’d like to talk through what your own charter might look like, our team is always happy to start that conversation. You can reach us through the enquiry form or via WhatsApp.
