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Celestia on her maiden voyage from Bali to Komodo National Park -
Jasmine Chong and Jason Tabalujan with Celestia’s crew during the maiden voyage. -
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Celestia’s interiors, designed by Deirdre Renniers -
Celestia’s culinary program was designed by Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa -
Activities available onboard, in the ocean and on land.
Celestia’s maiden voyage from Bali to Komodo is a momentous occasion that marks the culmination of a dream for siblings Jasmine Chong and Jason Tabalujan, whose goal was to offer a fresh way for guests to experience their homeland in a truly spectacular fashion.
BALI, INDONESIA – Celestia has officially made waves in the Coral Triangle with its launch and maiden voyage to Komodo National Park. This vessel promises unforgettable journeys, indulging guests in unrivaled cruises throughout the stunning marine landscapes of Southeast Asia.
The Coral Triangle is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and breathtaking underwater scenery. Celestia offers a unique opportunity for travelers to explore this ecological wonderland while experiencing the pinnacle of luxury, comfort, and authentic Indonesian hospitality. With its hand-crafted accommodations and impeccable service, the yacht provides an unforgettable escape for those seeking a memorable adventure in one of the most pristine places in the world.
Celestia’s maiden voyage from Bali to Komodo is a momentous occasion that marks the culmination of a dream for siblings Jasmine Chong and Jason Tabalujan, whose goal was to offer a fresh way for guests to experience their homeland in a truly spectacular fashion.
“We are overjoyed to see Celestia in the water, fulfilling its destiny of showcasing the beauty of Indonesia and the Coral Triangle,” said Jasmine Chong, who, together with her brother Jason Tabalujan, has personally overseen the crafting of every aspect of the vessel. “From when the first piece of wood was laid out, we knew this would be a special phinisi. Seeing the boatbuilders – some of whom now work onboard – create this majestic vessel by hand with so much care, reinforced our vision of a truly unique product whose smallest details enhance and complement a truly beautiful sailing experience.”
Guests aboard Celestia can expect an unparalleled experience. The yacht features sophisticated and thoughtfully appointed staterooms, world-class amenities, exquisite cuisine designed by renowned Indonesian executive chef Wayan Kresna Yasa, and immersive activities and experiences. Whether relaxing on the spacious deck while gazing at the breathtaking sunset or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, every moment onboard will inevitably create lifelong memories.
High design in the high seas
Built by hand using UNESCO-recognized methods, the traditional Indonesian vessel offers an authentic and unique approach to experiencing one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring places. For interiors worthy of the majestic setting and iconic ship, Celestia’s owners, Jasmine Chong and Jason Tabalujan, enlisted the best in the industry: the renowned Cape Town-based interior designer, Deirdre Renniers and marine engineer Tresno Seery to advise on the naval architecture.
The collaboration can be seen throughout the vessel, including the Owners’ Staterooms on the upper deck. These signature staterooms include a private terrace with a daybed and a spacious writing desk with panoramic ocean views. A collection of books, curated according to each owner’s tastes, ranging from astronomy to poetry, from fashion to business, await travelers staying in the Owners’ Staterooms. Spaces have been designed for simple luxuries like diving into Pablo Neruda’s odes to the sea (Jasmine’s favorite) from the comfort of one of the many reading nooks, loungers, or in one of Indonesian designer Alvin Tjitrowirjo’s creations.
The color palette of the interiors emulates the hues found in Indonesia’s awe-inspiring landscapes, natural beauty, and convergence of ocean and sky. Locally made tiles by Balinese artisans have been hand-glazed a soft blue to not compete with the ocean views. Duck’s egg blue plays with crisp, white linen, layered with bedding accessories made with tropical toile jacquards sourced from Italy. Luscious teak and hand-woven rattan paneling in soothing earth tones provide an elegant setting for the soft glow of brass hardware, which hints at the old-world glamor and patina gathered by some of Jasmine and Jason’s favorite spaces in New York City and Jakarta. In Celestia’s windows, Roman blinds with leather tabs, custom-made to avoid rattling on a boat, provide privacy and escape from Indonesia’s glorious sunny skies.
A culinary journey
An acclaimed Balinese Chef will take on the role of Executive Chef and design all culinary experiences onboard, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special beach meals.
Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa is an award-winning Balinese chef who built an impressive career in Indonesia and the US. He established himself through his work in Michelin-rated kitchens in New York and Chicago, including Blue Hill Stone Barns and Acadia. Chef Wayan is best known for his inspired signature style, marrying classical French cooking techniques with Southeast Asian flavors.
In 2022, his debut book, PAON: Real Balinese Cooking, was published globally by Hardie Grant Books with co-author Maya Kerthyasa. The book’s release cemented Chef Wayan’s status as one of the top culinary figures from Indonesia by bringing the flavors of the storied destination to a global audience.
Onboard Celestia, menus will focus on fresh, local ingredients sourcing from its docking and anchoring locations. Meals are designed to complement guests’ preferences, planned itineraries, and flavors evocative of the destination. From hearty breakfasts to memorable dinners, Chef Wayan’s signature approach will seamlessly meld heritage recipes and flavors with modern culinary innovation, all informed by his time abroad and the bounty of Indonesia.
The experience of a lifetime
Celestia offers an array of captivating activities and unparalleled experiences amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Coral Triangle. From diving and snorkeling the crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with wildlife (manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins and an array of exotic fish species) to unwinding on the sundeck while soaking up the warm tropical breeze, every day on Celestia is designed to fit each guest’s sensibilities. Each day brings a new adventure that welcomes participants of all backgrounds to participate as desired.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
