A Historic Vessel Reimagined as a Luxury Hotel
A 111-year-old ship, once known as the SS Medina, has been transformed into a luxury hotel on land. This unique project, led by Singaporean businessman Eric Saw, took over 15 years and $18 million to complete. The vessel, now named Doulos Phos, stands on an artificial anchor-shaped island in Bintan, Indonesia.
The Ship’s Journey Through Time
The SS Medina was built in 1914 and served multiple roles throughout its history. Initially used for transporting goods, it was later converted into a passenger ship and eventually became a missionary vessel called MV Doulos. Over the decades, the ship traveled over 360,000 nautical miles and visited more than 100 countries. It even faced a terrorist attack in the Philippines in 1991, which left two evangelists dead.
After being decommissioned, the ship was at risk of being scrapped. However, Eric Saw saw potential in preserving its legacy. He purchased the vessel in 2010, with the vision of turning it into a hotel that could support Christian charitable causes.
The Transformation Process
Saw’s journey to transform the ship into a hotel was not without challenges. The ship had to be moved from Batam to Bintan, a process that took seven weeks. Engineers constructed a concrete platform to support the vessel, which weighs 6,800 tons. The ship was then pulled onto the platform using airbags and mechanical winches.
Inside the ship, the interiors were reconfigured to meet modern hotel standards. The original cabins were small and spartan, but they were expanded to include larger windows and modern amenities. The ship’s historical features, such as portholes and lifeboats, were preserved to maintain its heritage.
The Hotel Experience
Today, the Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel offers guests a unique seafaring experience. The hotel features 100 rooms and suites, with some still having circular portholes for windows. Guests can enjoy private balconies that were once used by sailors. The hotel also includes a restaurant and other facilities, all built to the vessel’s bow.
Saw emphasizes the importance of maintaining the ship’s authenticity. He refers to the staff as “crew” and the rooms as “cabins.” Some guests even experience mild seasickness when looking out the portholes, adding to the immersive experience.
Preservation and Purpose
Saw’s commitment to preserving the ship’s heritage is evident in every detail. Original rivets and other historical elements are incorporated into the hotel’s design. The engine room remains untouched, and some original living quarters have been converted into “experience cabins.”
Despite the challenges, Saw remains dedicated to his mission. He draws only a token annual salary, with all profits going toward Christian charitable causes. He believes that the ship’s true value lies in what is done with it, rather than its material worth.
Challenges and Future
Rust remains a constant challenge, as the ship is exposed to the elements even on land. Saw acknowledges that maintenance will always be necessary, but he remains optimistic about the ship’s future. He believes the vessel could potentially last another 111 years, though he is unsure about his own longevity.
The Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel is a testament to the power of vision and dedication. It combines history, luxury, and purpose in a way that few other projects can match. For those seeking a unique travel experience, this historic vessel offers something truly one-of-a-kind.
