Meet Our Team of Flores & Komodo Experts
The heart of Flores Phinisi is our people. We have assembled a dedicated team of Indonesian and international experts, each a leader in their field, united by a passion for the sea and a commitment to delivering extraordinary travel experiences. Our collective expertise in luxury hospitality, marine biology, Indonesian culture, and maritime operations ensures that every aspect of your journey is executed with flawless precision and deep local insight. Our editorial standards are a direct reflection of our team’s deep, first-hand knowledge.
Budi Santoso
Founder & Chief Experience Officer
Credentials: B.Sc. in Hospitality & Tourism Management (STP NHI Bandung), PADI Certified Divemaster, 15+ years in Indonesian luxury hospitality management.
Bio: Budi is the visionary behind Flores Phinisi. Having spent over a decade managing some of Indonesia’s most iconic luxury resorts, including properties for Aman and Four Seasons, he saw an opportunity to bring that same level of service and attention to detail to the sea. A passionate diver and conservationist, Budi’s deep network within the Indonesian tourism industry and his unwavering commitment to quality are the cornerstones of our brand. He personally vets every partner vessel and itinerary, ensuring they meet his exacting standards before they are offered to our clients.
Dewi Lestari
Head of Operations & Charter Management
Credentials: STCW 95 Certified, Diploma in Maritime Business (Politeknik Ilmu Pelayaran Semarang), 12 years in Southeast Asia yacht charter logistics.
Bio: Dewi is the master of logistics, the calm center of our complex operations. Her extensive experience managing charter fleets in Indonesia and Thailand makes her an invaluable asset. Dewi oversees everything from vessel compliance and crew scheduling to provisioning and guest transfers. She has a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, working closely with the KSOP (Harbour Master) in Labuan Bajo and ensuring all our operations adhere to the highest safety and legal standards. Her meticulous planning ensures every journey unfolds seamlessly from start to finish.
Gede Wirawan
Lead Experience Curator & Head Guide
Credentials: Certified Senior Tour Guide (Himpunan Pramuwisata Indonesia – HPI), Flores Cultural Heritage Specialist.
Bio: Born and raised in a small village near Ruteng, Flores, Gede possesses an unparalleled, encyclopedic knowledge of the region’s culture, history, and natural wonders. He is not just a guide; he is a storyteller who brings the magic of Flores to life. Gede leads the training for all our onboard guides, ensuring they provide not just information, but genuine connection and context. He has personal relationships with community leaders across the archipelago, allowing our guests unique access to experiences like traditional Caci whip dances or visits to remote weaving villages, all conducted with the utmost cultural respect.
Dr. Anya Sari, Ph.D.
Marine Biologist & Sustainability Officer
Credentials: Ph.D. in Marine Biology (Institut Pertanian Bogor), published researcher on Manta Ray conservation in the Komodo region.
Bio: Dr. Anya is our scientific conscience and the driving force behind our conservation efforts. She designs our guest education programs, providing fascinating onboard lectures about Komodo’s unique marine biodiversity, from the famed dragons to the vibrant coral ecosystems. She liaises directly with organizations like the Komodo Survival Program and Manta Trust, ensuring our operations contribute positively to ongoing research and conservation work. Dr. Anya also leads our internal sustainability audits, helping us and our partners continually reduce our environmental footprint. Her presence transforms a beautiful vacation into a meaningful educational experience.
Captain Ismail
Senior Phinisi Captain
Credentials: Ahli Nautika Tingkat III (ANT III) License, over 20 years of experience navigating the Flores Sea.
Bio: A proud Bugis sailor, Captain Ismail comes from a long line of Phinisi seafarers. The sea is in his blood. His knowledge of the currents, winds, and hidden anchorages of the Komodo archipelago is second to none. He combines generations of traditional maritime wisdom with modern navigation and safety technology. Guests consistently praise his calm demeanor, his unwavering focus on safety, and his uncanny ability to find the most serene spots for a sunset cocktail or a morning swim. Captain Ismail embodies the soul of the Phinisi tradition.
Continue exploring Flores Phinisi:
Our Flores Phinisi Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance