Traditional Indonesian sailing yachts — from USD 2,500 to USD 22,000+ per night across four tiers, with private crew, chef, and Komodo National Park access.
Luxury phinisi charter in Labuan Bajo starts at USD 2,500/night for traditional wooden sailing yachts with professional crew and chef. Our curated fleet of 57 phinisi vessels ranges from USD 2,500 to USD 22,000+ per night, accommodating 4–24 guests.
A phinisi (Indonesian schooner) combines authentic sailing heritage with modern onboard luxury — antique wooden architecture paired with air-conditioning, hot showers, gourmet kitchens, and full-service crew dedicated to Komodo exploration.
A phinisi is a traditional Indonesian sailing schooner, built for centuries in South Sulawesi (Makassar). Named after the Bugis word “pinisi” (meaning sail), these wooden vessels evolved from ancient trading boats. Modern luxury phinisis retain traditional double-sail rigging while incorporating contemporary amenities.
Key Characteristics
Six reasons phinisis dominate Labuan Bajo charters — for travellers, families, and groups alike.
Feel the Flores Sea beneath billowed sails — rhythmic motion, canvas snapping, crew hoisting lines. An immersive maritime experience impossible on motor vessels.
Phinisis sail under wind power when conditions permit, reducing diesel consumption and CO₂ by 30–50% compared to motor yachts.
20–35% less than motor yachts of comparable capacity. USD 6,000/night phinisi (12 guests) versus USD 10,000/night motor yacht of the same size.
Shallow draft (3–5 ft) lets phinisis anchor closer to pristine beaches, secret lagoons, and shallow reefs. Motor yachts often require dinghy transfers.
Wooden construction, open decks, traditional rigging — phinisis exude romance. Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, and cultural immersion.
Smaller crews (4–5 vs. 8–10 on mega yachts) create intimate relationships. Learn sailing, hear Bugis maritime stories, form lasting bonds.
Every phinisi in our network is verified for professional crew, sanitation, navigational safety, and guest comfort.
18
Vessels
Authentic & Reliable
Traditional build, solid amenities, functional comfort. No frills, but authentic sailing and reliable service. Ideal for budget-conscious groups valuing experience over luxury finishes.
22
Vessels
Most Popular
The Sweet Spot
Modern air-conditioning, hot water, decent galley, spacious deck. Sweet spot for families and friend groups — balance of traditional sailing and contemporary comfort.
12
Vessels
Premium & Refined
Premium finishes, gourmet chef, premium bar, optional spa services, entertainment systems. High-end experience with phinisi authenticity — corporate retreats and milestone celebrations.
5
Vessels
Bespoke Boutique
Bespoke service, renowned chef, curated wine selection, personal captain attention. Boutique experience rivalling mega yachts at lower price — ultra-high-net-worth, honeymoons, celebrations.
Three reference voyages — all flexible. Captain adjusts daily based on weather, conditions, and your group’s preferences.
Classic 3 Days / 2 Nights
Cost: USD 4,000 – 8,000
Immersive 5 Days / 4 Nights
Cost: USD 8,000 – 20,000
Deep Explorer 7 Days / 6 Nights
Cost: USD 12,000 – 30,000+
What life looks like on board — from cabins to deck rituals.
Cabins are compact but efficient — air-conditioning, hot shower, ensuite bathroom, premium linens, and storage. Luxury tier vessels feature marble bathrooms, rainfall showers, Egyptian cotton sheets, and individual climate control.
Chef prepares 3 daily meals — Indonesian and international fusion. Themed dinners (BBQ, seafood, traditional feast). All dietary requirements accommodated. Soft drinks, coffee, and tea always complimentary; alcohol policy varies by vessel.
The open-air sun deck is your social hub — morning yoga, hammock afternoons, sunset cocktails, stargazing under near-zero light pollution. Larger phinisis offer lounge areas; smaller vessels feature intimate gathering spots.
Snorkel directly from the yacht or dinghy depending on anchorage. Diving available on certified vessels with PADI dive masters and DAN insurance. Some phinisis include kayaks, paddleboards, and underwater cameras.
All-inclusive of crew, chef, meals, beverages, Komodo permits, guides, and equipment.
| Phinisi Class | Per Night | 3-Day Charter | 5-Day Charter | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | USD 2,500 – 3,500 | USD 4,000 – 6,000 | USD 8,000 – 12,000 | 8–12 guests |
| Comfort | USD 3,500 – 6,000 | USD 6,000 – 10,000 | USD 12,000 – 18,000 | 10–16 guests |
| Luxury | USD 6,000 – 9,000 | USD 10,000 – 15,000 | USD 18,000 – 27,000 | 12–20 guests |
| Ultra-Luxury | USD 9,000 – 13,000 | USD 15,000 – 22,000 | USD 27,000 – 40,000 | 14–24 guests |
Manta season, calm seas, peak demand.
Excellent conditions, fewer crowds.
Best value — cooler weather, occasional rough seas.
Excluded: alcoholic beverages, flights, personal activities, and crew tips (typically 10–15% of charter cost).
Everything travellers ask about chartering a luxury phinisi in Labuan Bajo.
A phinisi is a traditional Indonesian wooden sailing schooner, originally built by the Bugis and Konjo people of South Sulawesi. Unlike modern fibreglass motor yachts, phinisis use sail power (wind-assisted) and feature shallow drafts that enable island access impossible for deep-hulled vessels. Authentic, sustainable, and full of character.
USD 2,500–13,000+/night depending on class. Standard: 2,500–3,500. Comfort: 3,500–6,000. Luxury: 6,000–9,000. Ultra-Luxury: 9,000–22,000+. A typical 5-day charter costs USD 8,000–40,000 for 8–24 guests, all-inclusive of crew, chef, and Komodo park access.
It depends on priorities. Phinisis offer authenticity, lower cost (20–30% cheaper), environmental responsibility, and romance. Motor yachts offer faster transit, more modern finishes, and greater onboard space. For Komodo specifically, phinisis excel due to shallow-draft island access and the sailing experience itself.
Standard: 8–12 guests (4–6 cabins). Comfort/Luxury: 10–20 guests (5–10 cabins). Ultra-Luxury: 14–24 guests (8–12 cabins). Intimate phinisis can accommodate as few as 4 guests, ideal for couples or honeymoons.
Yes, with considerations. Cabins are compact and movement is restricted in rough seas. Most phinisis welcome children aged 3+. Larger vessels with multiple cabins, shaded deck areas, kid-friendly menus, and family-appropriate itineraries are best — we match families with the right vessel.
Yes. All private phinisi charters are fully customisable. Captain adjusts daily based on weather, conditions, and guest preferences. Our concierge designs bespoke routes around diving, dragon trekking, photography, or simple deck relaxation.
Beyond phinisi, our motor yacht, cruise, and dive liveaboard fleets cover every Komodo travel style.
Tell us your dates and group size. Our 57-vessel network has a phinisi for every budget and timeline — from USD 2,500/night.
Plan My Phinisi CharterLast updated: April 2026
