Mutiara Laut, which translates to ‘Pearl of the Sea’ in Indonesian, is a classic two-mast schooner that combines the elegance of an 18th-century North Atlantic design with distinctive Indonesian influences. With its warm teak wood interiors and seven well-appointed cabins, Mutiara Laut offers an intimate yet grand setting for guests to explore Indonesia’s exotic landscapes.
Completed last year, the thoughtful redesign by Gregory Galliard seamlessly blends the vessel’s classic phinisi structure with luxurious modern touches, creating a floating masterpiece that celebrates Indonesia’s rich maritime history.
At the heart of every Mutiara Laut experience lies a spacious environment designed for relaxation and connection, carefully tailored for Indonesian expeditions. Great care and meticulous attention to detail were invested in crafting the living areas to create inviting spaces that harmonize with the breathtaking natural beauty.
Mutiara Laut‘s indoor lounge and dining area provide a climate-controlled multi-purpose space where guests can savor meals or unwind, escaping the midday sun. Large windows encircle the interior lounge, giving it an open and airy ambiance while keeping guests connected to the rugged landscape. The doors lead to the covered outdoor lounge and dining space, offering the chance for open-air dining beneath the stars and a place to unwind on comfortable day beds and sofas.
Mutiara Laut‘s lounge area serves dual purposes, transforming from a serene spot for morning yoga to a tranquil lounge enveloped by the natural breeze.
The vessel is the brainchild of Leendert “Leo” Van Oostenbrugge, a Dutch native and a seasoned seafarer. His transition from captaining large cargo ships to creating luxury sailing yachts in the Netherlands led to the conception of Mutiara Laut. Upon retiring to Bali, Leo, driven by his adventurous spirit, envisioned a vessel that would allow him to explore Indonesia’s remote parts. Collaborating with architect Dolf “Farelli” Versteegh, they designed this unique schooner, integrating features of the Indonesian phinisi, a traditional two-masted sailing ship.
The journey of Mutiara Laut began in the Indonesian part of Borneo, where Leo and his team selected ulin ironwood timber for constructing the ship’s skeleton. The construction took place in a traditional wharf in South Kalimantan, with local craftsmen joining in the effort. Since its maiden voyage in 2010, Mutiara Laut has become a symbol of sophisticated sailing, offering guests a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern comfort.
Whether marveling at the intricate woodwork or enjoying the reimagined open decks, the Mutiara Laut offers a design story worth exploring for those passionate about travel and timeless craftsmanship.
