Meet Our Team of Komodo Experts
The magic of a Komodo cruise lies not just in its destination, but in the people who guide your journey. At Komodo Cruise Package, our strength is our team: a dedicated group of Indonesian travel specialists, marine conservationists, and hospitality veterans who share a profound passion for East Nusa Tenggara. With decades of combined experience, we bring local insight, professional expertise, and a genuine commitment to creating your perfect Phinisi liveaboard adventure.
Arya Santoso
Founder & Chief Strategist
Credentials: B.S. in Hospitality & Tourism Management (STP Bandung), Certified Divemaster (PADI), 15+ years in Indonesian luxury travel.
Bio: Arya’s vision is the driving force behind Komodo Cruise Package. Born in Java but with his heart in Flores, he spent over a decade managing operations for some of Indonesia’s most exclusive resorts before founding the company. He saw an opportunity to elevate the liveaboard experience by combining the authenticity of traditional Phinisi sailing with world-class service standards. Arya personally vets every partner vessel and maintains close relationships with local communities and conservation bodies, ensuring our operations are both exceptional and responsible. His insights are foundational to our evaluation methodology.
Dewi Lestari
Head of Guest Relations & Itinerary Curation
Credentials: Certified Tour Guide (HPI – Himpunan Pramuwisata Indonesia), M.A. in Sustainable Tourism (Gadjah Mada University).
Bio: Dewi is the architect of your adventure. With a background in cultural anthropology and sustainable tourism, she designs itineraries that go beyond the typical tourist trail. She speaks fluent English, Bahasa Indonesia, and the local Manggarai dialect, allowing her to build deep connections that unlock unique experiences for our guests—from private dinners on secluded beaches to visits with traditional weavers in Flores. Dewi ensures every Komodo cruise package is perfectly tailored to our guests’ interests, whether it’s a family-focused snorkeling trip or an intensive dive safari.
Banyu Wirawan
Marine Operations & Safety Officer
Credentials: Master Near Coastal Voyage (Ahli Nautika Tingkat III), PADI IDC Staff Instructor, EFR Instructor.
Bio: With over 5,000 dives logged in the Komodo National Park, Banyu is our resident ocean expert and safety guru. A native of Labuan Bajo, he has an unparalleled understanding of the region’s complex currents, weather patterns, and marine ecosystems. Banyu is responsible for auditing the safety protocols, emergency procedures, and dive operations of our entire partner fleet, ensuring they meet and exceed the standards set by the Indonesian Directorate General of Sea Transportation. His rigorous oversight is a cornerstone of our commitment to safety and compliance.
Sari Hartono
Partnerships & Sustainability Coordinator
Credentials: B.Sc. in Marine Biology (Bogor Agricultural University), Project Management Professional (PMP).
Bio: Sari bridges the gap between luxury travel and meaningful conservation. She manages our relationships with key partners like the Komodo Survival Program and WWF Indonesia, developing initiatives that directly support local conservation and community projects. Sari leads our sustainability program, from implementing our zero single-use plastic policy to ensuring a percentage of every booking contributes to marine protected area enforcement. Her work ensures that our presence in the Komodo Archipelago is a positive one, preserving its beauty for generations to come.
Agus Setiawan
Logistics & Ground Services Manager
Credentials: IATA Certified Travel Professional, Member of ASITA (Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies).
Bio: Agus is the master of seamless travel. Based in Labuan Bajo, he orchestrates all ground operations with precision. From greeting you at Komodo International Airport (LBJ) to arranging private vehicle transfers and coordinating with our Phinisi crews, Agus ensures every transition is flawless. His extensive network and deep understanding of local logistics are invaluable, guaranteeing a stress-free experience from arrival to departure. He works closely with our airline partners like Garuda Indonesia and Batik Air to manage flight connections and provide real-time support for our guests.
Continue exploring Komodo Cruise Package:
Our Komodo Cruise Package Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance
Crafting unparalleled Komodo experiences
Imagine the first rays of dawn painting the volcanic peaks of Padar Island, illuminating a panorama few ever witness. This is the promise of a Komodo luxury cruise, and our team ensures it’s delivered with an artistry born from deep local knowledge and meticulous planning. We don’t just book trips; we curate personal odysseys, understanding that true luxury lies in the seamless fusion of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. From the moment you connect with us, our specialists delve into your preferences, crafting bespoke itineraries that might include a sunrise trek to see the Komodo dragons, a secluded beach picnic on a pristine white-sand cove, or a private dive at a vibrant reef teeming with manta rays and vibrant corals.
Our expertise extends far beyond mere logistics. We are intimately familiar with the ever-changing currents, the hidden anchorages perfect for a tranquil night under a blanket of stars, and the best times to visit specific dive sites for optimal marine encounters. This nuanced understanding, honed over years navigating these very waters, allows us to anticipate your needs and elevate every moment. Whether it’s arranging for a private chef to cater to specific dietary requirements or orchestrating a surprise celebration onboard, our hospitality veterans foresee every detail, transforming a journey into a collection of unforgettable memories.
Beyond the horizon: sustainability and local impact
The pristine beauty of Komodo National Park is a treasure we are committed to preserving, not just for our guests but for future generations. As a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991, the park is a vital ecosystem encompassing over 1,733 sq km of marine and land area, home to the iconic Komodo dragon and an astonishing diversity of marine life. Our marine conservationists on staff ensure that every Komodo cruise package adheres to the highest standards of responsible tourism, from waste management protocols onboard our Phinisi vessels to guiding practices that minimize ecological footprints during snorkeling and diving excursions.
We believe that luxury travel should also be a force for good. Our deep roots in East Nusa Tenggara mean we are intrinsically linked to the local communities. We actively partner with local fishermen for fresh produce, employ a predominantly Indonesian crew, and support community-based initiatives that empower residents and foster environmental education. This approach not only enriches your journey with authentic cultural interactions but also contributes directly to the sustainable development of the region. When you choose a Komodo Cruise Package, you’re not just embarking on an adventure; you’re investing in the future of this irreplaceable natural wonder, encountering over 1,000 species of fish and 260 species of coral with respect and awe. Learn more about the park’s significance at the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
The heart of your journey: expert guidance on every wave
A luxury Komodo cruise is an immersive experience, and the success of that immersion rests squarely on the shoulders of your guides and crew. Our team’s credentials, from Certified Divemasters to seasoned skippers, translate into unparalleled safety and enrichment. They are not merely facilitators; they are storytellers, naturalists, and guardians of your journey, eager to share insights into the local culture, the unique geology of the islands, and the intricate behaviors of the marine inhabitants. Their passion is infectious, transforming a simple observation into a profound learning experience.
Every member of our team, from the deckhands to the lead guides, undergoes rigorous training and shares a profound respect for the sea and its wonders. They navigate the dynamic waters of Komodo with an intuitive understanding, ensuring smooth passages and optimal conditions for all activities. This deep expertise, combined with a genuine dedication to personalized service, allows you to relax completely, knowing that every aspect of your adventure is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. For a comprehensive overview of this incredible destination, we recommend visiting Indonesia.travel.