Sunda Kelapa Port

Sunda Kelapa Port is a historic harbor located in the northern part of Jakarta, Indonesia. Established in the early 17th century and reconstructed in 1817, it remains an active port today, primarily serving as a docking point for traditional wooden sailing vessels known as phinisi, two-masted wooden schooners from South Sulawesi. These vessels are still used for inter-island freight, offering visitors a glimpse into Indonesia’s maritime heritage.

Sunda Kelapa has been a pivotal site in Indonesia’s history. In the 15th
century, it was the main port of the Sunda Kingdom. During the 16th century, the Portuguese established a trading post here. In 1619, the Dutch East India Company seized the port and founded Batavia (now Jakarta). The port’s strategic location facilitated the spice trade, contributing to the city’s growth.