New custom-built Indonesian phinisi ship lunches in the Komodo Islands

AYANA Hotels, Asian independently owned hospitality brand, has announced that it will launch AYANA Lako di’a, an exclusive, new custom-built luxury version of a traditional Indonesian phinisi ship, in Indonesia’s Komodo Islands in July 2018.

The largest vessel of its kind at any resort in the world, the 177-foot, 9-bedroom AYANA Lako di’a will sail from Flores Island, where the newest luxury resort in the AYANA portfolio, AYANA Komodo, Waecicu Beach, will open in September 2018. Located just one hour by plane from Bali, the Komodo Island archipelago is virtually unrivaled in the richness of its natural scenery, crystal waters, mountains, flora and fauna. It’s most noted for Komodo National Park, home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “7 Wonders of Nature.” The AYANA Lako di’a (meaning “safe journey” in the local language) will offer excursions for guests to explore all of the wonders of the archipelago.

The art of phinisi ship-building is an age-old craft made in South Sulawesi by the Konjo people using ancient techniques passed down from generation to generation. As of December 2017, the art of phinisi boat-building was named to UNESCO’s list of the “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.” The AYANA Lako di’a will be the largest phinisi ship in the world owned and operated by a hotel brand; the nine-cabin vessel will accommodate up to 18 passengers with a local crew of seasoned hospitality and diving professionals.