Meet Our Team
At Raja Ampat Phinisi Cruise, our strength lies in the expertise, passion, and dedication of our team. We are a collective of seasoned professionals, marine enthusiasts, hospitality experts, and local guides, all united by a shared commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences in Raja Ampat. Our team’s deep understanding of the archipelago, its unique marine biodiversity, and its vibrant cultures ensures that every journey with us is not just a trip, but an immersive and authentic adventure. We are proud to be part of the Juara Holding Group, upholding its standards of excellence and integrity.
From the moment you begin planning your bespoke charter to your final farewell, our specialists work tirelessly behind the scenes and onboard to ensure every detail is meticulously handled. We believe that the human element is paramount in creating truly memorable luxury travel, and our team members are the heart and soul of the Raja Ampat Phinisi Cruise experience. Each individual brings a wealth of knowledge, a commitment to safety, and a genuine love for the pristine environment we operate within.
Our Core Leadership & Expedition Specialists
Our leadership team combines international luxury hospitality standards with profound local insights, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all guests. Our expedition specialists are not just guides; they are storytellers, educators, and guardians of Raja Ampat’s natural wonders.
Captain Budi Santoso
Role: Fleet Operations Director & Senior Phinisi Captain
Credentials: Master Mariner Class I (ANT I) certified by Direktorat Jenderal Perhubungan Laut (DGST), STCW 2010 compliant, over 25 years experience navigating Indonesian waters, PADI Divemaster.
Bio: Captain Budi is a true veteran of the Indonesian seas, with a lifetime of experience navigating the archipelago’s most challenging and beautiful waters. Hailing from a long line of Bugis seafarers, his expertise in traditional Phinisi navigation combined with modern marine safety protocols is unmatched. As our Fleet Operations Director, he oversees the meticulous maintenance and operational excellence of all our vessels, ensuring every cruise adheres to the highest safety standards set by national and international maritime authorities. His intimate knowledge of Raja Ampat’s currents, hidden anchorages, and best dive sites is invaluable in crafting dynamic and safe itineraries. Captain Budi is also a certified PADI Divemaster, often joining guests for dives and sharing his profound understanding of marine ecosystems. He is a strong advocate for marine conservation, actively participating in local initiatives to protect Raja Ampat’s delicate coral reefs.
Dr. Anya Wijaya
Role: Head of Marine Conservation & Expedition Leader
Credentials: Ph.D. in Marine Biology from Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), certified Marine Protected Area (MPA) Manager, published researcher on coral reef ecology in the Coral Triangle, Green Fins certified.
Bio: Dr. Anya is our resident marine biologist and the driving force behind our sustainability initiatives. Her extensive research on Raja Ampat’s unparalleled biodiversity makes her an extraordinary resource for our guests. She designs and leads our educational excursions, offering insightful briefings on the region’s 1,700+ fish species and 75% of the world’s coral species. Dr. Anya ensures all our operations comply with the strictest environmental guidelines, working closely with organizations like the Misool Foundation and Conservation International Indonesia. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and inspiring guests to become advocates for marine conservation, often leading citizen science activities onboard. Her presence transforms a luxury cruise into a profound educational journey into the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Chef Made Putra
Role: Executive Culinary Director
Credentials: Graduate of STP Nusa Dua Bali (now Poltekpar Bali) in Culinary Arts, extensive experience in 5-star luxury resorts across Indonesia (e.g., Four Seasons Sayan, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve), certified in HACCP food safety standards.
Bio: Chef Made brings the vibrant flavors of Indonesia and international gourmet cuisine to your Phinisi experience. With a background in some of Bali’s most prestigious luxury resorts, he crafts exquisite menus using the freshest local ingredients, often sourced directly from Papuan fishing communities and markets. His philosophy centers on culinary storytelling, blending traditional Indonesian recipes with contemporary techniques. From freshly caught seafood barbecues on secluded beaches to elegant multi-course dinners, Chef Made ensures every meal is a highlight. He is meticulous about dietary requirements and preferences, providing a truly personalized dining experience that reflects the luxury and authenticity of your journey.
Ms. Kartika Dewi
Role: Guest Relations & Charter Specialist
Credentials: Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), ASITA (Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies) certified, 10+ years in luxury travel planning.
Bio: Kartika is the first point of contact for many of our guests, and her dedication to personalized service is legendary. With a deep understanding of the luxury travel market and the intricacies of Indonesian tourism, she meticulously plans every aspect of your charter, from pre-arrival logistics to bespoke onboard activities. She works closely with our clients to understand their desires, crafting tailor-made itineraries that perfectly match their expectations for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Kartika’s extensive network within the Indonesian tourism industry, including partnerships with Garuda Indonesia and AirNav Indonesia for seamless travel, ensures a smooth and stress-free experience from start to finish. Her warm demeanor and meticulous attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to our team and a trusted advisor to our guests.
Mr. Yanis Wamafma
Role: Local Community Liaison & Cultural Guide
Credentials: Native of Raja Ampat (Waisai), extensive knowledge of local dialects and customs, certified local guide by Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif, trained in first aid and responsible tourism practices.
Bio: Yanis is our vital link to the heart of Raja Ampat – its people and their rich cultural heritage. As a native Papuan, he offers unparalleled insights into the traditions, history, and daily life of the local communities. Yanis facilitates respectful and authentic cultural exchanges, ensuring that our visits to villages like Arborek or Yenbuba are mutually beneficial and enriching. He is passionate about sharing the stories of his ancestors and the unique customs of the Raja Ampat islands. Yanis also plays a crucial role in our sustainability efforts, working with local leaders to implement community-based conservation projects and ensuring our operations contribute positively to the local economy. His presence enriches every cultural excursion, providing a genuine connection to the soul of West Papua.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Each member of the Raja Ampat Phinisi Cruise team is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, service, and environmental responsibility. We regularly undergo professional development and training, including maritime safety drills, PADI updates, and sustainable tourism workshops. Our dedication ensures that your luxury Phinisi cruise through the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Raja Ampat is not only unforgettable but also contributes positively to the preservation of this extraordinary destination.
To learn more about our operational standards and commitment to quality, please visit our Editorial Standards page. For inquiries about our bespoke charters, please contact us at bd@juaraholding.com or +62-877-0123-3636. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Continue exploring Raja Ampat Phinisi Cruise:
Our Raja Ampat Phinisi Cruise Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance