TimberSize and hardwood volume
Ironwood keel above 1,000 kg/m³ density and teak decks; a 45 m phinisi can need over 250 m³ of hardwood.
250 m³+ at 45 m
Build cost breakdown
What a custom phinisi costs to build
A high-quality custom phinisi generally costs US$750,000 to over US$3 million. Size, engineering systems and interior luxury decide where yours lands.
- Custom build from
- US$750k+
- Contract to launch
- 18–24 mo
- Hull share of cost
- 25–35%
- Annual running cost
- 8–10%
US$1.8M
Sample 35 m, 5-cabin build
The short answer
A ballpark range by size
A 25–30 m phinisi configured for private charter typically falls between US$800,000 and US$1.5 million. A 40 m-plus vessel with superyacht-grade interiors and engineering commands more than US$2 million, limited only by specification.
No two custom phinisis are alike. Gross tonnage, a measure of internal volume, is a more accurate cost indicator than length overall.
- The hull is only part Timber hull and superstructure often account for just 25–35% of the final cost.
- Systems drive the budget Engineering and finishings turn a wooden boat into a luxury yacht.
Cost drivers
Where the money goes beyond the hull
Three variables separate a US$800,000 charter phinisi from a multi-million-dollar private yacht.
Timber
InteriorInterior fit-out and finishes
Where budgets diverge most: a professional marine galley alone can exceed US$75,000, before marble, Sumba textiles and AV.
Galley over US$75,000
EngineeringMarine engineering and systems
A pair of 500 hp marine diesels can cost over US$150,000, plus generators, water makers and navigation.
No room for compromise
Owner considerations
Plan for the costs after launch
The build price is not the whole commitment. Plan running costs and payments from day one.
Sample budget
A US$1.8M build broken down
A hypothetical 35-metre, 5-cabin luxury charter phinisi. Percentages shift with owner priorities.
- Hull & superstructure
- 35% · US$630,000
- All timber, traditional framing and planking labour, and the basic structure.
- Interior fit-out
- 30% · US$540,000
- Cabins, carpentry, galley and bar, plumbing, wiring and soft furnishings.
- Marine engineering & systems
- 25% · US$450,000
- Engines, gearboxes, shafts, propellers, generators, navigation, safety equipment and HVAC.
- Design, naval architecture & management
- 10% · US$180,000
- Design fees, stability calculations, project oversight and administration.
- Total build
- US$1,800,000
- Performance-led owners shift budget to engineering; aesthetics-led owners to interiors.
Once launched, annual operating costs typically run 8–10% of the build price.
Heritage vs factory
Built on the beaches of Bulukumba
Hulls are built on the beaches of Bira and Tanah Beru by Konjo master builders, a craft over 500 years old and inscribed by UNESCO in 2017. Once afloat, the hull moves to a protected yard for fit-out and engineering.
- Open-air workshop Not an assembly line: builds typically take 18–24 months.
- Classed if required Builds can meet RINA or BKI classification standards.
- Sails included Standard contracts include sails, masts and all rigging.
Phinisi Shipyard guide
Keep reading this guide
Compare yards, budgets and build types before you commission.
FAQ
Build cost questions
Typically 18–24 months from contract signing to launch, allowing for timber seasoning, traditional construction phases and careful installation of modern systems.
Ironwood (kayu ulin) for the keel and structural framework, for its density and resistance to marine borers; sustainably sourced teak (kayu jati) and merbau for planking, superstructure and interior.
Yes. A modern phinisi can be built to RINA or BKI (Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia) standards, with inspections throughout the build, which is often required for commercial charter and insurance.
Marine diesels from recognised makers such as Yanmar, MAN or Caterpillar. The naval architect sets model and horsepower from the vessel’s size, displacement and desired cruising speed.
Yes. A standard build contract includes a full set of sails, masts and rigging. Most modern phinisis run mainly under engine; the sails add stability and a quiet option when conditions permit.
Yes. Documentation support covers registration under the Indonesian flag, licensing for private or commercial charter use, and compliance with local maritime regulations on completion.
New-build consultation
Get a preliminary proposal
Share your vision, target size and intended use with our new-build team to receive a preliminary proposal for your phinisi.
+62 811-3941-4563 · bd@juaraholding.com