Vela
Aman-trained crew, Michelin Guide kitchen, two above-deck master suites.
The Experience
A Day Aboard Vela
Morning light enters the bridge-deck master suite in long horizontal bars, falling across pale teak and Italian linen. The terrace door is already open; the smell of freshly brewed coffee arrives before the steward does. Below, the dive team is kitting up in the stern, Nitrox tanks ready, for those who want the reef at first light. By 7 a.m., two tenders are in the water, guests sorted by preference: some heading down to twenty meters, others to the nearest beach for yoga on sand.
The executive chef draws from both Indonesian and international traditions, building each day's menu around whatever the fishermen brought in that morning. Afternoons belong to whoever wants them. A wakeboarding session behind the Zodiac, a massage on the sun deck, paddleboarding into a quiet bay, or nothing at all. The crew of eighteen adapts to each guest's pace without being asked.
The Vessel
Technical Specifications
Connectivity
Vela carries unlimited Starlink satellite internet, included in the charter rate. Speeds support video calls and streaming from any anchorage in Raja Ampat or Komodo.
Accommodation
Six Suites, Two Above the Sea
The owner's suite occupies the forward main deck: a full-beam space with direct access to a private terrace where the morning sun arrives without ceremony. Up one level, the VIP suite sits atop the bridge deck, the highest cabin on the vessel, with its own terrace and 270-degree views. Both above-deck suites are unique to Vela in the Indonesian phinisi fleet.
The four king cabins below deck are fitted with Italian fabrics, sustainably sourced teak furniture, and ensuite bathrooms tiled in Ubud terracotta with marble accents and Philippe Starck-designed fittings. Light and air move easily through the lower deck. These are not afterthought cabins.
The anchor goes down at the kind of bay that doesn't appear on tourist maps, and the crew sets up dinner on the beach without being asked.
The Team
Meet the Crew
Crew of eighteen for up to fourteen guests. Many bring experience from the Aman group, and the kitchen team trained in the owners' Michelin Guide restaurant in Bali.
Master Mariner
Deep knowledge of Raja Ampat anchorages, Komodo currents, and seasonal routes across the archipelago.
Resort-Standard Kitchen
Builds each day's menu around guest preferences and fresh local ingredients. Equally confident in Indonesian and international cuisine.
PADI Instructor and Divemaster
A PADI dive instructor and a divemaster on board. Open water certification available during the charter. Nitrox supports extended bottom times.
Guest Activities
Coordinates diving, land excursions, water sports, and village visits with knowledgeable local guides.
Charter Rates
Vela Pricing
Raja Ampat
January to March
$119,000 /week
Komodo National Park
April to September
$119,000 /week
Spice Islands and Banda Sea
October
$119,000 /week
Raja Ampat
November to December
$119,000 /week
Festive Season Supplement
Festive surcharge (20 Dec to 5 Jan)
+$2,000 per night /week
All rates plus 12% Indonesian VAT. A $2,000 per night surcharge applies over the Christmas season.
Included
- Professional crew of 18
- All gourmet meals and non-alcoholic beverages
- Airport transfers to and from port
- National park fees
- Diving for certified divers
- Water sports: SUPs, kayaks, jet skis (outside park boundaries), wakeboard, water skis
- Complimentary spa treatments (up to 4h per day)
- Unlimited Starlink satellite internet
- Personal laundry services
Additional
- Alcoholic beverages
- Diving courses and PADI certification fees
- Dive, medical and cancellation insurance
- Crew gratuities (customary 10-15%)
Vela Itineraries
Itineraries planned around Indonesia's seasons for optimal conditions and wildlife. Each begins here, then becomes yours through the planning conversation.
All Ages
The Westward Passage
Dragons, waterfalls, and sunrises on an awe-inspiring journey.
Surf Charter
Private Surf Safari
Indonesia's best reef breaks with empty lineups.
Wildlife
Nihi Sumba Expedition
Wildlife encounters across four islands in seven nights.
Where Vela Sails
Raja Ampat from November through March. Komodo from April through September. Other destinations and times of year on request.
You May Also Like
Vela FAQ
How much does it cost to charter Vela?
Vela charters at USD $17,000 per night in 2026, making the standard 7-night charter $119,000. The 2027 rate is $17,500 per night ($122,500 for seven nights). A festive season supplement of $2,000 per night applies from December 20 through January 5. Rates are subject to 12% Indonesian VAT. The rate includes the crew of 18, all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, national park fees, diving, water sports, daily spa treatments up to four hours, and Starlink WiFi.
How many guests can Vela accommodate?
Vela accommodates up to 14 guests in 6 cabins: 12 adults and 2 children. The configuration is one owner's suite on the main deck with a private terrace, one VIP suite atop the bridge deck with its own private terrace, and four king cabins below deck. Both above-deck suites are unique to Vela in the Indonesian phinisi fleet.
Is Vela suitable for diving?
Yes. Vela carries a full dive shop for 12 divers, two Bauer compressors with a Nitrox generator for extended bottom times, and a PADI dive instructor and divemaster on board. Beginners can complete their open water certification on board during the charter. Equipment in all sizes is available.
Where does Vela cruise?
Vela sails Raja Ampat from November through March (manta season, peak marine life, calm conditions), Komodo National Park from April through September (dry season, dragon encounters, current-rich dive sites), and the Spice Islands and the Banda Sea in October. Repositioning between regions is possible with applicable fees.
From the Journal
Dispatches from Indonesia's most extraordinary waters. Yacht features, expedition reports, and the stories behind our most memorable charters.
Charter Guides
Everything you need to know before chartering in Indonesia. From costs and logistics to destination comparisons and packing lists.
Interested in Chartering Vela?
Please get in touch to discuss planning your private charter.