About Us
Sanctuary is a private yacht charter in Indonesia, set aboard a modern phinisi. Each journey onboard Sanctuary is designed around you - from where you go to how you choose to spend your time along the way.
We don't follow fixed routes or set experiences. Instead, every charter is planned individually, shaped by your preferences from the very beginning. Our team works with you to create a journey that feels right - whether that means exploring destinations like Raja Ampat and the Komodo Islands, or simply slowing down and enjoying time at sea.
Life onboard follows the same approach. Menus are prepared by our chef based on what you enjoy, and each day is arranged around how you want it to unfold - active, restful, or somewhere in between.
Sanctuary was created with a deep respect for Indonesia's maritime heritage, brought into a more contemporary way of travelling. The experience is designed to feel calm, comfortable, and easy to settle into - a space of quiet luxury and tranquility, where everything is taken care of without feeling structured or formal.
At its core, Sanctuary is about giving you the freedom to experience Indonesia in your own way - with the time, space, and care to make it feel truly personal.
The Phinisi
History of the Phinisi
The Phinisi is a traditional Indonesian sailing vessel, defined by its distinctive twin masts and sail configuration - a design that has carried seafarers across the archipelago for generations. More than its form, it represents a long-standing relationship between craftsmanship, navigation, and the sea.
Originating from South Sulawesi, the Phinisi was developed by the Konjo-speaking shipbuilders of Ara and long used by Bugis and Makassar seafarers for trade and exploration. Built entirely by hand using techniques passed down through generations, each vessel reflects a legacy of skill and precision that remains deeply rooted in Indonesian maritime culture.
The earliest documented reference to the Phinisi dates back to 1917, though its origins trace much further through oral history and tradition. Over time, it evolved into one of the largest and most reliable sailing vessels in Indonesia, before the introduction of motorized ships in the 1970s and 80s.
In 2017, the art of Phinisi boatbuilding was recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity - a reflection of its cultural significance and enduring craftsmanship.
Today, while many Phinisi vessels have been adapted for modern journeys, the essence remains unchanged. It continues to embody a quiet strength, a respect for tradition, and a way of moving through the sea that is both intentional and enduring.
The Crew of Sanctuary
Sanctuary is shaped by the people who guide each journey. The crew brings the vessel to life through experience, consistency, and a deep understanding of the sea.
Many come from maritime communities across Indonesia, carrying generations of seafaring knowledge shaped by life on the water. This heritage is felt in the way the vessel is handled, how days are paced, and the quiet confidence that comes from being in capable hands.
On board, service is guided by experience and attentiveness, allowing the journey to unfold with ease. The crew moves in quiet rhythm with each day, offering support naturally and giving space where it's felt.
Beyond navigation and operations, the crew defines the atmosphere of Sanctuary - one that feels warm, personal, and grounded in trust.
