Partnering with the right boat builder in Indonesia is the first step in turning your vision into a vessel crafted by the world’s finest wooden shipwrights.
Bira & Bulukumba
Shipyards that are the beaches themselves
We don’t run a single yard. Long-standing ties with the most respected Konjo teams in Tana Beru and Ara let us choose the right punggawa for each project.
This vetted, decentralised approach means working with the best talent — never limited by the capacity of one yard.
Ironwood & teak
Ironwood below, teak above
Borneo ironwood (kayu ulin) forms the keel, frames and hull structure: dense enough to sink, and highly resistant to the Teredo shipworm.
Above the waterline, Indonesian teak (kayu jati) takes over for decks, superstructure and interiors, standing up to tropical sun and spray.
The commissioning process
Your vision, built milestone by milestone
A structured, transparent process across an 18 to 30-month build, with us as your eyes and ears on the ground.
01
Concept & specification
We define the vessel’s mission with you, your captain or broker, then develop the GA, hull design and spec sheet with naval architects.
02
Builder & contract
We select the right punggawa and team, and contract a payment schedule tied to verifiable construction milestones.
03
Timber sourcing
We hand-select ironwood and teak from certified suppliers in Sulawesi and Kalimantan, overseeing milling and seasoning.
04
Milestone reporting
Weekly or bi-weekly reports with photos and video track keel, frames, planking and deck beams against agreed milestones.
05
Systems integration
We coordinate craftsmen and marine technicians to install engines, generators, plumbing and electrical systems in the traditional hull.
Beyond the build
Launch, sea trials and handover
The final phase turns a finished hull into a yacht ready for its owner — tested, documented and crewed.
01
A ceremonial launch
A community event steeped in ritual, carefully managed so the hull slides safely across the sand into the sea.
02
Outfitting & commissioning
At a finishing facility the interior is completed, masts stepped, rigging installed and every system tested.
03
Sea trials
Our technical team tests performance, stability and handling, then works through a detailed pre-handover checklist.
04
Handover & support
Full documentation, crew training, and after-sales and warranty support once the yacht is yours.
FAQ
Building a phinisi in Indonesia
Timelines, payments, class and systems — answered.
How long does a custom build take?
For a luxury phinisi of 30 to 50 metres, typically 18 to 30 months from contract signing to handover. Rushing timber preparation compromises long-term integrity.
How are payments structured?
A deposit on signing, then instalments at keel laying, framing, hull planking, deck installation, engine installation and handover — each after a satisfactory inspection.
Bugis or Konjo — who builds the boats?
The Bugis were historically the sailors, traders and owners. The master shipwrights are predominantly Konjo people of Bulukumba, custodians of the boatbuilding knowledge.
Can the yacht be classed?
Yes. We can build to the standards of classification societies such as RINA or BKI, managing the additional surveys and documentation required.
What fastens the hull?
Traditionally wooden dowels. For modern builds we primarily use marine-grade galvanised bolts or 316 stainless steel, depending on application, budget and class.
Who handles the interior fit-out?
A specialised team of carpenters, often from Java, crafts the joinery and cabinetry, while Konjo craftsmen build hull and superstructure. We manage the integration.
Which engines and systems are installed?
Recognised brands for easy service worldwide: engines from Yanmar, Caterpillar or MAN, Onan or Kohler generators, Garmin or Simrad electronics.
Do you assist with flagging and registration?
Yes. Indonesian or international flag, we manage surveys, paperwork and liaison with maritime authorities so the vessel is compliant at handover.
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