In 2017, UNESCO recognised the art of phinisi boatbuilding as a ‘Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity’. Constructed from iron wood using historic techniques, Indonesian phinisi boats offer a snapshot from a bygone time of maritime exploration.
These traditional two-masted yachts – also known as ‘Sulawesi schooners’ – have been used for centuries in Indonesia for both travel and trade. Today, they offer the ultimate mode of discovery for charter guests travelling through Indonesia’s Edenic islands.
Pacific High is among the companies actively striving to revive the phinisi tradition. The story begins with Yann Martinie de Maisonneuve, who describes a phinisi as “a vessel that seamlessly fuses exceptional craftsmanship with centuries-old maritime history – a living legend on the water”. He was instantly “captivated” at first sight, he recalls.
The Frenchman built his first phinisi, the 18m Zirbad, in 2009. This was followed by the launch of the 32m Nataraja in 2015. In 2018, after cruising on board Nataraja, Danish couple Peter and Charlotte Galsgaard joined forces with Martinie de Maisonneuve to create Pacific High.
“Our first encounter with phinisi boats felt like a calling, an invitation to be part of something timeless and meaningful,” Peter Galsgaard remembers.
Detailing the couple’s motivation to help start up Pacific High, he explains: “These vessels are far more than boats; they are a legacy of Indonesia’s rich maritime heritage. As we began to understand the deep cultural significance they hold for the Bugis and Makassar communities of South Sulawesi, we were moved by the stories, the rituals and the sheer craftsmanship involved in their construction.
“There’s something profoundly humbling about working with a boatbuilding tradition that has been passed down through generations. Each curve of the hull, each joint crafted by hand, is an art form as much as a functional build. This level of detail and dedication struck a chord with our own values: respect for craft, history and the human touch.”
The three co-founders have spent the last seven years not only launching new phinisi boats built in the traditional way, but also managing them for charter, curating unique itineraries for discerning guests.
Martinie de Maisonneuve says: “In essence, we are reviving phinisi yachts because it’s the ultimate vessel for our mission – to unite people, culture and the thrill of exploration in a way that’s both timeless and visionary.”
Charlotte Galsgaard adds: “In reviving the phinisi tradition, we’re not looking backward. We’re honouring a heritage while building something for the future: boats that carry meaning, inspire wonder and invite others to explore Indonesia’s islands in the most respectful, beautiful way possible.”
MODERN PHINISI CHARTER FLEET
Compared to other yachts, phinisi boats make for the ultimate companion for an Indonesian charter, according to Peter. “In a country like Indonesia, where the best treasures are scattered across remote islands and hidden bays, a phinisi allows you to travel meaningfully and with a deep connection to the land and the people. It’s the most authentic, respectful and enriching way to explore this archipelago.”
The Pacific High fleet now comprises three vessels – Nataraja, Senja and Dewata – actively chartering in Indonesian waters, with a fourth yacht, Sanya, soon to be charter-ready. All have been built in Pacific High’s shipyard in Bira, South Sulawesi.
On each of the vessels, guests are looked after by 11 members of crew, with a designated cruise director helping make the most of the experience. Additionally, all the boats carry a variety of water toys, from dive and snorkelling gear to kayaks and paddleboards.
NATARAJA (2015), 32M: ‘THE EXPLORER’ Named after a Hindu god, Nataraja is designed to host groups of up to six adults and two children across three en-suite cabins. A dining table, cocktail bar and lounge on the main deck offer indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces, with sunbeds forward for soaking up the sunshine. (From USD 4,150/night)
SENJA (2021), 31M: ‘THE HONEYMOONER’ Senja, meaning ‘dusk’ in Indonesian, is the fleet’s most sought-after vessel. Accommodating up to four guests, she caters to couples and small families. The master cabin has a private terrace featuring a sunbed, dining space and bathing platform with outdoor shower. The foredeck features sunbeds, dining and a bar, while the swim platform provides sea access and a waterside setting for spa treatments. The upper deck can be used for sunbathing, yoga, alfresco dining or outdoor movie nights. (From USD 5,075/night)
DEWATA (2022), 33M: ‘THE GETAWAY’ Dewata is named after the Indonesian term for ‘divine being’. Up to six guests can be accommodated, with two 18sqm en-suite master cabins aft on the main deck ensuring comfort for all guests on board. Further relaxation can be found on the private terrace, which offers a dining area, sunbed, swim platform and alfresco shower. From US$4,950/night
SANYA (2025), 36M: ‘THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE’ Meaning ‘bright’ in Sanskrit and ‘sublime’ in Arabic, Sanya is Pacific High’s newest addition, launching in Komodo in August 2025. As Senja’s sistership, she shares identical luxury amenities and exceptional services while bringing fresh elegance to the fleet. Designed with the same thoughtful attention to couples and small families, Sanya accommodates up to five guests. From US$5,075/night
Pacific High recommends its Komodo to Sumbawa programme (click for itinerary).
pacifichighcruise.com
Words: Olivia Michel; Photos: Pacific High & As Credited
This article was first seen on YACHT STYLE
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