Frequently asked

Straight answers
before you build.

Cost, timelines, inclusions, payments and safety — the questions owners ask most often about commissioning a custom phinisi.

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Phinisi anchored in clear turquoise water

Timeline

How long
a build takes.

From design finalisation to launch, a bespoke phinisi typically takes 18–24 months.

3–6

Months of design & sourcing

Design finalisation and material sourcing.
12–18

Months of construction

Hull, systems and interior at the yard.
18–24

Months, design to launch

Expedited options may be available at a premium.

Builds can start year-round; April–October is drier, which can ease timber transport.

The craft

Why a phinisi
is built by hand.

Questions about tradition come up as often as questions about price.

Phinisi are built by the Bugis and Konjo shipbuilders of South Sulawesi, whose knowledge passes down through generations. In 2017 UNESCO inscribed the Pinisi art of boatbuilding in South Sulawesi as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Builders select durable timbers — ulin ironwood, teak and merbau. Hulls were traditionally shaped without blueprints; today that craft is paired with modern naval architecture and engineering for stability and safety at sea.

Every curve of the hull and every hand-carved detail carries a story of heritage.

Customisation

What can be
made to measure?

Almost everything — from hull shape and cabin layout to interior finishes, technology and propulsion.

Staterooms & layout

Cabin plan and finishes designed around how you will use the boat.
A chef’s galley

A fully equipped galley able to host top-tier chefs.
Dive centre

Dedicated dive facilities with direct access to the water.
Spa, media & art

Private spa space, entertainment systems or curated art.

Design is collaborative and iterative, with naval architects, interior designers and master artisans working from your brief.

Interior fit-out & cabins

Who it suits

New build
or pre-owned?

A new build gives full control over design, layout and materials, with zero prior use.

A new build suits

Individuals and families planning private expeditions
Corporate clients and operators building for luxury charter
Owners planning long-term exploration of Indonesia
Anyone who wants full control of layout and materials

Consider other routes if

You need a vessel sooner than an 18–24 month build allows
You have found a sound hull that only needs renewal

Refit & restoration Cargo conversion

Responsible build

Sourced legally,
run efficiently.

Sustainability questions, answered at the build stage.

Timber

Legal, traceable wood

We prioritise legally harvested, certified timber under Indonesia’s SVLK verification system, which traces wood to managed forests.

Materials

Local where possible

Local, sustainable materials are used where possible, supporting regional economies and cutting transport emissions.

Propulsion

Hybrid as an option

Hybrid diesel-electric propulsion can be specified for lower emissions and quieter cruising.

Power & water

Solar and smart systems

Solar panels can supplement onboard power, while waste and water systems keep discharge to a minimum.

FAQ

The questions
we hear most.

Ten answers on cost, time, scope and payment for a custom phinisi.

How much does a custom phinisi cost?

It depends on length, materials and interior finish. A detailed quote follows a consultation and an initial design brief. For indicative bands by size, see our build packages page.

How long does it take to build?

Typically 18–24 months from design finalisation to launch: 3–6 months for design and material sourcing, then 12–18 months of construction. Expedited options may be available at a premium.

What is included in the build service?

Design consultation, naval architecture, material sourcing, craftsmanship, project management and sea trials, plus basic navigation equipment and interior outfitting. Crew hiring, permits and registration fees are usually excluded.

When is the best time to start?

Builds can start year-round. Starting between April and October aligns with the drier months, which can make timber transport and early yard work smoother.

Why build new rather than buy a pre-owned yacht?

A new build is tailored to your specification: you control design, layout and materials, and the vessel has no prior use. A pre-owned boat comes with its existing layout and history.

What safety standards do you build to?

Each vessel is built to the maritime safety rules for its size and class, with navigation, communication and fire-suppression systems, and is inspected and sea-trialled before delivery.

How do I start a project?

Contact our concierge team for an initial consultation on your vision, budget and timeline. A detailed design brief and a deposit then secure your build slot and the design phase begins.

Can I customise the design?

Yes. Hull shape, cabin layout, interior finishes, technology and propulsion can all be bespoke. Our design team works closely with you to realise your vision.

Who is a custom phinisi suitable for?

Individuals, families and corporate clients who want a bespoke vessel for private expeditions, luxury charter or long-term exploration of Indonesia.

How are payments structured?

An initial deposit, then milestone payments tied to construction progress — keel laying, hull completion, interior outfitting and final delivery. Bank transfer is the preferred method.