For nearly a century, the Doulos Phos, famously known as the “Servant of Light,” held the title of the oldest active passenger ship in the world until it was retired in 2009.

This historic vessel, originally christened the SS Medina, was constructed in Texas back in 1914, just two years following the Titanic’s ill-fated voyage.

Throughout its remarkable journey, the ship played multiple roles, transitioning from a cargo transporter to an immigrant carrier, then evolving into a cruise ship and eventually serving as a floating bookstore before its transformation into a hotel.

Over the years, the MV Doulos Phos underwent several name changes, being known at different times as SS Medina, SS Roma, MV Franca C, and MV Doulos.

Endearingly referred to as the ‘Grand Old Lady of the Seas,’ the vessel faced the threat of being dismantled unless significant investments could be secured to restore its aging structure.

Fortuitously, in 2010, the ship embarked on a new adventure on solid ground, thanks to an $18 million (£13.6 million) investment from a Singaporean entrepreneur with a vision to convert it into a luxury hotel.

Eric Saw, the boat’s owner, decided on Bintan Island in Indonesia, a short ferry ride from Singapore, as the boat’s permanent location on an anchor-shaped island.

It took seven weeks for the ship to be pulled onto land, where the engine was gutted and the interior was restructured. 

Affectionately known as the ‘Grand Old Lady of the Seas’, the MV Doulos Phos was headed for the scrapheap unless it found major investment to fix its creaky joints

Eric ensured that the history of the ship was preserved, including the four lifeboats, which still hang from chains along the midship and a heritage engine room.

‘In everything we did, we tried to put in nautical elements,’ he told CNN.

After a decade of renovation, he finally opened the hotel’s doors to guests in 2019. 

Eric reportedly takes a salary of $1 a year, while all operating profit is donated to charitable causes.

Doulos Phos The Ship Hotel has 93 cabins across four decks and boasts an infinity swimming pool, spa facilities, fitness centre, sun terrace, garden and restaurant. 

A Deluxe Plus double or twin room will set you back around £78, including breakfast. 

One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: ‘Having stayed at many hotels over the years, I can honestly say this was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.

‘The atmosphere is something special—it offers a unique glimpse into life at sea, without ever having to set sail.

‘What made it even more memorable was meeting the owner of the ship—a genuinely friendly and humble man. I was deeply blessed by our encounter.

‘I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and will definitely be coming back. I wholeheartedly recommend this amazing place to friends from all around the world. It’s a stay you won’t forget.’

Eric Saw, the boat’s owner, decided on Bintan Island in Indonesia, a short ferry ride from Singapore, as the boat’s permanent location on an anchor-shaped island

It comes as The Trump Organization is set to develop a high-end hotel in the Maldives with 80 beach and overwater villas.

Working alongside luxury real estate developer Dar Global, the company has announced plans for Trump International Hotel Maldives.

The hotel will be the first in the Maldives for the Trump Organisation and is due to open by the end of 2028.

It is located just 25 minutes away from Malé, the island’s capital, by speedboat and with dozens of beach and overwater villas, the hotel sets out to be ‘ultra-luxury’.

It is being developed specifically for holidaymakers ‘seeking the highest levels of privacy, exclusivity, and sophistication’.