Technical and Financial Evaluation of Marine Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) Installation on the Tourism Phinisi Vessel KLM GT 255

Abstract

Freshwater availability is a critical operational requirement for liveaboard phinisi vessels, particularly on routes where shore-based supply is limited or costly. This study evaluates the technical feasibility, financial viability, and business-model implications of installing a 15 m³/day marine seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) system on the tourism phinisi vessel KLM GT 255. The assessment integrates seven-day freshwater balance analysis, engine-room integration and risk assessment using a 5 × 5 risk matrix and Bow-Tie method, financial evaluation using NPV, IRR, BCR, and Payback Period, and strategic analysis using the Business Model Canvas. The results show that the SWRO system can meet the vessel’s estimated freshwater demand of 4.7 m³/day and eliminate deficits during seven-day trips under controlled operation. Product-water TDS was measured at 450 mg/L, while identified integration risks can be reduced to acceptable levels through appropriate operational controls. With a CAPEX of Rp214 million, the Sorong-plus-delivery scenario produced an NPV of Rp344.49 million, an IRR of 41.1%, a BCR of 2.61, and a payback period of 2.35 years. However, financial performance is strongly route dependent and becomes less attractive where low-cost port freshwater is readily available. The BMC analysis indicates that SWRO primarily strengthens operational self-sufficiency, freshwater security, and service continuity rather than creating a new revenue stream. Overall, onboard SWRO is technically feasible and economically attractive for liveaboard operations exposed to high freshwater logistics costs.