Repurposed Centennial Vessel into a Seaside Lodge Along Indonesia's Shoreline

Repurposed Centennial Vessel into a Seaside Lodge Along Indonesia's Shoreline

Hear the Amazing Tale of Eric Saw's Voyage with the Century-old Ship

Eric Saw, a 73-year-old businessman from Singapore, purchased a ship with a century-long history in 2010, hoping for an exciting journey ahead. Little did he know, his adventure would lead to transformation!

Once upon a time, Saw dealt with his children aboard the MV Doulos, a 130-meter-long vessel that sailed the world for 33 years as a floating library. His bond with the ship ran deep, and he never imagined his family would one day become its owners or that he would reimagine it in the breathtaking coastline of Indonesia.

In 2010, Saw bought MV Doulos, recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest active ocean-going passenger ship in the world. Originally built in 1914, this historic vessel served as a cargo ship before becoming a floating library [1]. Known infamously for transporting onions from 1914 to 1948, Saw found a few mysteriously preserved sacks of onions among the ship's belongings, using them to create a signature onion soup at his hotel.

Upon purchasing the ship, Saw renovated it, focusing on preserving its rich history, crafting a stunning beach hotel known as the Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel. Originally, he envisioned anchoring the MV Doulos near the coast of Singapore, but faced substantial obstacles and numerous setbacks from the authorities.

Consequently, Saw looked for alternative locations and found a solution in Bintan, Indonesia. Working with hotel developer Frans Gunara, he secured a mooring spot for the ship and a piece of land for a dry dock, ensuring the ship's protection from water damage. Essentially, he didn't just settle for any island—he requested one in the shape of an anchor!

Once the ship found its final place in Bintan, lots of hard work followed. The ship's dark and confined cabins, remnants of its past as a floating library, underwent extensive renovations. Sketching designs for tables, interiors, and outdoor areas, Saw transformed the ship into a contemporary hospitality venue with 105 cabins, an infinity pool, a gym, a spa center, and plenty of dining options.

The remodeling was no small feat, as the bulkheads and other claddings required reinforcement during the process. The cabins were widened, allowing a stunning Bintan coastline view [2]. Today, this unique hotel represents the harmony of the ship's history, rich culture, and modern amenities.

A decade in the making, MV Doulos' transformation stands as an inspiring testament to Saw's determination and perseverance. Despite countless challenges, the hotel was finally unveiled in 2019, offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse themselves in the charm of this incredible sea vessel.

To delve deeper into the rich history of the MV Doulos and the Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel, visit our website.

Further Reading [1] - "Oldest & the Largest Sailing Books Library in the World". GBA Ships. Accessed April 3, 2023. [2] - "Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel". Doulos Phos. Accessed April 3, 2023.

What is the lifestyle offered at the Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel, a unique combination of outdoor-living and home-and-garden, situated in the breathtaking coastline of Indonesia? Through travel, Eric Saw transformed the century-old MV Doulos into a contemporary hospitality venue, complete with 105 cabins, an infinity pool, a gym, a spa center, and various dining options.

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