Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel in Bintan, Indonesia
With all the action concentrated in one place, going on cruises is the most convenient weekend getaway. But if you’ve ever wanted to experience the suite life on deck sans the choppy waves and seasickness, you might want to check out Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel.
It may not be a cruise, but it is an actual ship that has been converted into a hotel, complete with the engine rooms and deck intact. Situated on Bintan, it’s a unique island getaway less than an hour from Singapore.
How to get to Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel?
A brief 45-minute ferry journey from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal will transport you to the pristine shores and crystalline waters of Bintan. Upon arrival, the ferry will dock at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.
Image credit: @jonpapush & @doulosphos via Instagram
There are several ferries going to Bintan each day and the schedule varies depending on the day of the week. More information on the timings can be found on Bintan Resort Ferries’ website.
Round-trip tickets start from S$90/adult and S$78/child for Economy Class; and S$144/adult and S$124/child for Emerald Class. Children aged 11 years and under, including infants, are entitled to the child fares.
The hotel provides shuttle services to and from the ferry terminal; simply drop them a message to arrange for it. Given that the resort is just a 2-minute drive from the terminal, you can even reach there on foot in a mere 5 minutes. With this ease of access, you can bid farewell to any concerns you have about missing the ferry back to Singapore.
Historical vessel with 110 years of adventures
Image adapted from: @doulosphos via Instagram
Endearingly known as the Grand Old Lady of the Seas, this vessel is just 3 years younger than the Titanic. Although it has retired, this ship even holds the prestigious title of the world’s oldest active ocean-going passenger ship, earning it a place in the Guinness World Records.
Image credit: Mark Knight via Facebook
In fact, it has a pretty rich history. Since 1914, its main propulsion engine has embarked on a remarkable voyage across 100 countries. Staying onboard is nothing short of living in a historical time machine, immersing yourself in the rich maritime heritage that this ship carries.
Free & easy packages from SG with ferry ride included
Image credit: Bintan Resorts via Facebook
While you can book your stay at Doulos Phos from $92/night through platforms like Trip.com and Agoda, you can cop an all-inclusive package deal through tour agency Bintan Holiday.
For S$175/adult, you’ll get a 2D1N stay in a Deluxe Plus room for 2. If your friend group comes in trios, the 3rd adult will enjoy S$10 off their package. And if a kid is in tow, the package will cost S$155/child.
These rates include not only a comfortable stay but also come with breakfast, a 2-way economy ferry ride, and complimentary activities such as fishing, net casting, and horseshoe pitching.
Image adapted from: @doulosphos via Instagram
During your stay, wind down with some drinks and canapes at the infinity pool that offers panoramic views of the sea. Unwind further with some refreshing cocktails at the pool bar or sign up for a soothing sound bath meditation session.
Image adapted from: @doulosphos via Instagram
There’s no need to venture far for meals as there are 2 restaurants on-site – Piano Lounge serving Indonesian, Asian, and International dishes as well as Arisetaffel, offering Indonesian cuisine.
You can also enjoy a romantic 4-course sunset dinner with bae at S$68/pax. Alternatively, Doulos Phos also offers steamboat dinners with prices starting from IDR300,000 (~S$25.76) for a party of 2.
Book Doulos Phos 4-course sunset dinner
On-site air rifle shootout, mudflat eco-walk & ship tour
Image credit: Pelago
Now, if you’re staying in an ancient ship, it’s only natural you’ll want to explore it. Hotel tours are available, allowing you to view the captain’s cabin and the disused engine room, both preserved in their original condition.
Image adapted from: @doulosphos via Instagram
Those who want to head outdoors can immerse themselves in a diverse range of activities on-site. There’s an air rifle shootout where you can unleash your PUBG skills with authentic air rifles using .177-caliber pellets. For a more grounded experience, go on a mudflat eco-walk and spot tiny creatures like crabs hiding within the mudflats.
Image credit: @doulosphos via Instagram
Finally, a trip to Bintan isn’t complete without a spa session. Round up your day of fun with a rejuvenating massage at the hotel’s spa centre, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Inflatable water park, kayaking & a safari near the hotel
Image adapted from: Klook & @safarilagoibintanindonesia via Instagram
With so many things to do in Bintan, the fun doesn’t just stop at the hotel. For some ATV action, head on down to Treasure Bay Bintan. Located less than a 5-minute drive from the hotel, you can also rent Instagrammable floats, such as a mega unicorn or a giant pizza. Don’t miss out on the giant inflatable water park for some aquatic fun either.
Animal lovers would be pleased to know that Safari Lagoi is 15 minutes away from the hotel. The safari serves as a sanctuary for endangered Indonesian wildlife, such as sun bears, Komodo dragons, and Sumatran elephants.
Enjoy a unique historical stay at Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel
Image credit: Doulos Phos the Ship Hotel via Facebook
During your stay on the Doulos Phos, you‘ll get to witness a Guinness World Record holder but also have the chance to experience the ship’s storied past. With a history as rich and diverse as the countries it has visited, this vessel promises to bring you back in time of its glory days.
Book your stay at Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel
Check out these travel guides for more things to do in Indonesia:
Cover image adapted from: @doulosphos via Instagram