Inspired by the spirit of adventure, Vela offers bespoke itineraries to some of the most remote corners of the Indonesian archipelago. From world-renowned highlights such as Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat, to the lesser-known Maluku Islands, diving with whale sharks in Cenderawasih, or exploring the hidden coves of Alor and Wakatobi, each journey onboard Vela is crafted to suit the wanderlust of its guests. Wherever they sail, guests can make the most of the crystalline waters with liquid thrills such as diving, snorkelling, water-skiing, jet-skiing, Seabobs, and stand-up paddle boarding, while those in search of land-based adventures can enjoy island hiking, birdwatching, secret-beach barbecues and more.

A newly built private-charter yacht, Vela sleeps up to 12 explorers in six impeccably stylish cabins and a discrete 18-person crew. Vela’s nautical kingdom comprises a spacious lounge with unobstructed ocean views, complete with a well-equipped bar and wine cellar; a serene al fresco yoga deck; and a choice of tempting indoor and outdoor dining spaces. Respected naval architect Tresno Seery, was tasked with giving Indonesia’s traditional phinisi boat a modern, sustainable update and, as a result, Vela boasts better hydrodynamics, a sleeker hull and improved sailing power.

The bright and breezy interiors – a calming medley of whites and neutrals, offset with chocolate-brown, orange and turquoise accents to reflect the boat’s tropical surroundings – offer a modern contrast to the rusticity of the traditional phinisi. Furniture and architectural features star endemic woods such as ironwood and teak; ceramics from Gaya in Ubud; and fabrics hand-dyed with plant-based indigo dye hail from East Bali. Bathrooms are graced with Axor fittings courtesy of Philippe Starck; which together with Italian fabrics from Hermès and Dedar Milano add a generous dash of colour and European chic.

Vela’s walls house a unique collection of art which pays tribute to the ever-evolving Indonesian contemporary art and culture scene: work by mid-20th-century Balinese master Nyoman Gunarsa sits alongside creations from up-and-coming local artists, each using materials endemic to the country to design eclectic pieces.
Guests can savour elevated nautical dining in a relaxed and informal environment. Expect the freshest fish and best locally-sourced produce starring in dishes such as baby-octopus risotto and snapper crudo seasoned with Indonesian herbs and spices. Casual favourites such as smoothie bowls, fresh poke and line-caught fish and chips capture the playfulness and spontaneity of life at sea.

A host of added wellbeing boosters await guests: sun salutations take on new magic on Vela’s rooftop deck, an outdoor gym can be set up on deck upon request, while an expert therapist is on hand to offer massages and other beauty rituals, including cherry-picked signature treatments from The Retreat (Nirjhara’s lauded spa).

Guests will travel in the safest of hands: Vela’s 18-person crew includes three captains and officers, three deckhands, a chef, a mixologist, a spa therapist, a cruise director, an activities and sports manager, four engineers and three housekeeping staff.

Vela’s vital statistics
* Overall length: 50m
* Length on deck: 41m
* Cruising speed: 8–10 kts

To book: Private charter of Vela starts from US$16,000 (+12% GST) per night on a full-board basis including all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, spa treatments and activities.

For more information and booking enquiries, visit www.sailvela.com