From the polished wood finish – more reminiscent of a fine violin than a phinisi schooner – to the state-of-the-art electronics and navigation suites, no expense has been spared in providing the ultimate, relaxed, luxury charter.

“El Aleph” – is also a magical story by the great Argentine author Jorge Luis Borges – a sphere the size of a grapefruit where one can see the entire universe – past – present – and future – from every possible angle.

El Aleph symbolizes the Eastern tradition of the great Buganese Phinisi sailing fleets which traded among the Spice Islands for centuries, but also the endless seas and skies of the Indonesian archipelago.

For those seeking the best liveaboard in Indonesia, El Aleph brings together traditional Phinisi design and 21st century technology, El Aleph was built in Sulawesi, Indonesia as a unique luxury owner’s yacht, finished in tropical hardwoods by Bali’s finest cabinetmakers who spent more than 200,000 man-hours on the final fit-out.

Beautifully handcrafted in 100-year old teak and ironwood with an attention to detail unmatched by any other Phinisi schooner ever built, El Aleph offers you a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating Indonesian archipelago – and beyond – to Thailand, Burma and the Andamans – in luxury and total privacy, far from the crowded marinas and touristic beaches of the standard Asian cruising destinations.

LIFE ON BOARD
El Aleph has the most deck space of any boat of its class in Indonesia. There is a very large main deck with outdoor dining facilities, and plenty of place to sit and chat, or lie down with a good book. lounging, or reading, as well as a large promenade deck aft the wheelhouse, and a private terrace opening up from the main cabin. Sun worshipers will usually be found out on the ample bows, where one can look down to watch the dolphins play, or on a sunbed up on the roof. Both indoor and outdoor dining are available.

El Aleph has a wide-screen television system with a large and eclectic collection of DVDs, and plugs for computers and iPods. We have a varied library in English, French, Russian and Italian, as well as a selection of board games.

The yacht is frequently within mobile phone 4G signal range, and free broad-band internet is available at those times. Nevertheless, within the Komodo National Reserve and in the more remote areas of Raja Ampat, coverage can be patchy. For those who need to remain in contact with the outside world, an always-on satellite broad-band internet system with VOIP telephony is available for an additional fee (billed at cost).

ACCOMMODATION
El Aleph offers a master owner’s cabin complete with dressing room and leading out to a private terrace located on the Bridge Deck, and four ensuite cabins below deck. An additional staff/nanny cabin is available.  All cabins are air conditioned.

DINING
El Aleph’s speciality is fine Asian cuisine with an emphasis on freshly caught fish and seafood. Of course, El Aleph would be delighted to discuss your menus before the cruise, and will provision the yacht with whatever you prefer. For special orders, be it Ostrich Carpaccio or fine French cheeses, the El Aleph team can source almost anything you may require in the home base of Bali, and the shore-manager will be at your disposition to find your favourites. The cheff will happily cater special menus (gluten-free, vegetarian, kosher, etc.) upon request.

The chef, Agus, has been with El Aleph almost since the beginning, and his cooking is simply a delight. Somehow, he has discovered the secret of keeping salads and fruit crispy and fresh weeks out of port. His specialty – fresh, flavour packed and varied Asian fusion – has drawn rave reviews from charter guests.

A full bar list, including wines and spirits is available and with advance notice, El Aleph will source special requests for wines and champagnes.

FACILITIES
Entertainment: DVD, TV, Stereo sound, Library
Watersports: Sea kayaks, wakeboard, bodyboard, fishing equipment, banana boat. Water-skiis
Diving: Compressor, aluminum dive tanks, full dive equipment, snorkeling gear, wet suits, NITROX, Poseidon rebreathers, helium mixing facility