Mutiara Laut, which means ‘Pearl of the Sea’ in English, is a classic two-masted schooner that combines the elegance of 18th-century North Atlantic design with the soul of Indonesian phinisi. We embarked on this masterful creation to discover the most remote seas of Indonesia.
With its elegant wooden hull, impressive sails covering a total area of 850 square metres, two imposing masts representing the maritime glory of the past, and classic style equipped with all modern comforts, it offers its guests the opportunity to stay in a luxury hotel while travelling to the most remote corners of the Indonesian islands.
This forty-six-metre sailing yacht was built by Frenty Kasumo and Van Oostenburgge. Delivered in 2009, it currently sails under the Indonesian flag.
Leendert “Leo” Van Oostenbrugge, former captain of large cargo ships who became a designer and creator of luxury yachts, moved to Bali after his retirement. His adventurous spirit led him to imagine a ship that would allow him to explore the most remote areas of Indonesia. This unique schooner, with features reminiscent of the Indonesian phinisi, a traditional two-masted sailing vessel, was born from a collaboration with architect Dolf ‘Farelli’ Versteegh.
From the Indonesian part of Borneo, ulin wood was selected to build the ship’s skeleton at a traditional dock in South Kalimantan, with the participation of local craftsmen.
A symbol of sophisticated cruising, since its maiden voyage in 2010, Mutiara Laurt has offered its guests a blend of local craftsmanship and modern comfort.
Leo Van Oostenbrugge, who passed away in 2015, built more than just a yacht, he left us a testament to the passion and dreams of someone who loved the sea and the art of shipbuilding, while his spirit lives on every time Mutiara Laut sets sail on a new voyage.
The schooner represents a unique blend of adventure, elegance and deep respect for the sea. A proud legacy in the world of luxury sailing that, in addition to cruising the seas, offers us an unforgettable experience, discovering the rich history and culture of Indonesia’s seafaring tradition.
Throughout its history, it has welcomed important and distinguished visitors, including members of royalty and various personalities who have felt that these voyages are not just trips, but a journey through history and culture, offering a unique insight into the wild beauty of Indonesia.
That's Mutiara Laut
With a harmonious fusion of Asian experience and classic European craftsmanship, the schooner’s design pays homage to the charm of the old world. The warm teak interiors and seven fully equipped cabins offer a unique yet grand setting with a luxurious style that makes us feel like we are in a timeless floating hotel.
Renowned for offering exceptional experiences accompanied by high-end personalised services, the interior of the ship stands out for its subtle glamour. A wonderful onboard experience complete with diving activities with PADI-certified instructors, spa treatments, and gourmet dinners, allowing guests to enjoy a unique and immersive sailing experience. Entertainment services are complemented by nitrox, snorkelling equipment, two sea kayaks, a wakeboard, two paddle surfboards, a water ski, as well as a wide selection of beach games, board games, card games, and a beach volleyball court.
With spacious living areas that create a cosy and comfortable atmosphere, the interior space is characterised by its versatility and air conditioning, allowing you to fully enjoy your meals or those moments of relaxation, escaping from the midday sun. Large windows create an open and airy atmosphere, keeping passengers connected to their surroundings.
In addition, spacious areas furnished with luxurious sofas and other comfortable seating, which blend perfectly with the teak wood, cater to the different needs of guests. Serene spaces that transform into a haven for yoga enthusiasts in the mornings, offering a tranquil setting with ocean views. As the day progresses, it becomes a luxurious lounge where you can sunbathe, admire the scenery, relax or socialise with the other passengers.
Mutiara Laut has seven cabins spread across two decks, offering luxurious and comfortable accommodation. The owner’s cabin is located at the rear of the boat and features a spacious private terrace, a king-size bed that can be converted into two single beds, and a sofa bed that can be converted into a single bed. This equipment is also available in four of the six double cabins located in the lower deck. On the other hand, the two forward cabins are equipped with queen-size beds. All cabins feature two portholes, a private bathroom, wardrobes and remote-controlled air conditioning, each paying homage to the style of classic schooners, carefully decorated to capture the timeless charm of historic European sailing ships.
Adventure in Asmat, the perfect ending to this experience
Over four days and three nights, departing from and returning to Agats, this private experience allows you to meet the famous Asmat tribe in the southern lowlands of Papua. An extraordinary experience that starts in Timika and continues along the eastern coast to explore the Asmat territory by boat, accompanied by a specialised guide and crew.
Deviating from the usual sailing routes to immerse ourselves completely in this wild and inaccessible region, we will visit several villages, witness the daily life of its people and participate in different cultural events such as an impressive naval ceremony, drum, dance and mask festivals, and the ritual of carving a pole dedicated to the ancestors, these being the highlights of the trip. Without a doubt, this is a true adventure that is only held twice a year to minimise environmental impact and preserve the authenticity of this tribe and its traditions.
Who are the Asmat? This ethnic group from the island of New Guinea, in the Indonesian province of Papua, are hunters, fishermen and gatherers. Formerly headhunters and cannibals, barbaric practices they have now abandoned, they continue to perpetuate the worship of their ancestors. And we will be privileged spectators of their history and their spectacular rites that date back to ancient times.
Accessible for only a few decades, this has meant that many villages remain untouched and their culture intact. Spread across an area of twenty thousand square kilometres along the south-western coast of the island and bordering the Arafura Sea, the region is covered with mangroves, swamps and equatorial rainforest. Organised into villages of between three hundred and two thousand people, built around the men’s house – the communal house or Jew – they are usually located on river bends or along small tributaries near the confluence with larger rivers, thus obtaining strategic advantages and resources.
Famous for its traditional wood carvings, coveted by collectors around the world, Asmat art is renowned for its exuberant shapes and colours, especially in the totems dedicated to their ancestors, war shields and the prows of their canoes. The drums and sticks of the ‘headhunters’ are considered sacred objects, while their songs accompany shamanic trances during ceremonies, playing an essential role in social bonds, political eloquence, therapy, cultural transmission, and leisure.
Many of these objects occupy prominent places in museum display cases around the world, such as the Quai Branly in Paris, the C. Michael Rockefeller collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam.
Raja Ampat, the unchanging gem of Indonesia
We have already highlighted the ability of the Mutiara Laut, thanks to its extraordinary design, to bring its guests closer to some of the most remote and captivating destinations. In addition to Raja Ampat, their itineraries also include the legendary Komodo and the pristine Alor.
Raja Ampat is located in West Papua, off the coast of New Guinea, within the Doberai Peninsula and on the border between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It has approximately 1,500 islands, with Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati and Misool being the main ones.
Nestled in what is known as the Coral Triangle, a region that represents just one per cent of the planet, the marine biodiversity is unrivalled, being the natural habitat of six hundred species of coral and one thousand six hundred species of fish.
Inland, Raja Ampat also offers stunning natural and cultural beauty. Exotic birds, spectacular landscapes and unique human experiences shape the exceptional catalogue of riches found in this unrivalled Eden.
Full programme for Mutiara Laut
An unforgettable experience spread over seventeen days and fourteen nights, departing on 1/2 November.
1/2 November. Departure (international flight)
Flight plans can be adjusted according to your departure city and preferences. You will likely spend 29 October in Jakarta or Makassar, on the island of Sulawesi.
3 November. Flight to Timika
Night flight and early morning arrival in the lowlands of West Papua.
Boarding the boat, settling in and beginning the adventure towards the Asmat territories.
4 November. In the Asmat territory
Canoe through a maze of narrow river channels in the heart of the coastal mangroves.
Visit to an Asmat village and participation in a grand drumming ceremony.
5 November. In the Asmat territory
Full-day boat trip around the region to explore other villages around Agats.
A grand nautical ceremony with more than 50 traditional canoes and 200 men, with drummers along the coast creating the atmosphere. Women and children are scattered throughout the surrounding area.
6, 7, 8 and 9 November. Sailing to Triton Bay
Heading to Raja Ampat. Discovering the treasures of Triton Bay: swimming with whale sharks, visiting iconic sites such as Little Komodo and Boo’s Rainbow, and diving in Bagan.
10–11 November. Kiti Kiti Waterfall and Pulau Pisang
Exploration of Kiti Kiti Waterfall, which flows directly into the ocean.
Pulau Pisang, an uninhabited island with pristine white sand and crystal clear waters.
12/13/14 November. Caves and reefs of Misool Island
The highlight of the trip: MISOOL, in the southern part of Raja Ampat. World-renowned diving and snorkelling sites with exceptional coral reefs (Fiabecet, Nudi Rock, Whale Rock and Batu Kecil). Stunning inland locations (Balbulol, Daram Wayilbatan or Yilliet), including the magnificent Tomolol Cave for a unique experience.
15 November. Departure for Sorong
Final stretch to Sorong and last night on board.
16 November. Departure flight from Timika
Flight plans can be adjusted according to the city of departure and individual preferences. Possibility of spending a night in Bali.
17 November. Return (international flight)
Prices
Accommodation in front cabin: €14,750 per person.
Accommodation in a double cabin: €17,980 per person.
Accommodation in the owner’s cabin: €24,650 per person.
The price includes
Domestic flights, all meals on the cruise (drinks included, except alcohol), crew service, excursions, all equipment on board and assistance in English, daytime use on arrival and one night in Bali with breakfast before returning, excursions mentioned in the programme with a specialist Asmat guide and local English-speaking guides, as well as specific tickets and permits for the areas visited, private transfers to the airport, 24/7 assistance from our local offices in French and organisation costs and 24/7 assistance.
