Updated: May 2026
Meet Our Team of Wakatobi Specialists
The strength of Wakatobi Liveaboard Voyages lies in the unparalleled expertise and passion of our people. As part of the Juara Holding Group, our team is comprised of seasoned professionals from the worlds of Indonesian luxury travel, marine biology, and maritime operations. We are not just consultants; we are divers, conservationists, and hospitality experts dedicated to crafting your perfect journey. Our rigorous internal standards, which you can read about in our Editorial Standards, are upheld by every member of this team.
Aria Santoso
Founder & Chief Strategist
Credentials: MBA in Hospitality Management (Cornell University), 20+ years in Indonesian luxury tourism development with groups like Aman Resorts and Alila Hotels.
Bio: Aria is the visionary behind the Juara Holding Group. Having spent two decades developing some of Indonesia’s most iconic luxury properties, he saw an opportunity to bring the same level of service, safety, and exclusivity to the liveaboard industry. A passionate diver himself, Aria’s deep connections within Indonesia’s tourism ministry (Kemenparekraf) and his uncompromising standards for quality are the bedrock of our company. He personally oversees our partnership and vessel selection methodology.
Dr. Banyu Wirawan
Head of Marine Conservation & Itinerary Design
Credentials: Ph.D. in Marine Biology (Universitas Hasanuddin), PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, published researcher on Coral Triangle biodiversity.
Bio: Dr. Banyu is our in-house expert on the Wakatobi ecosystem. With over 15 years of field research within the national park, his knowledge of the dive sites, marine life behavior, and seasonal patterns is encyclopedic. He designs our signature itineraries, ensuring they are not only breathtaking but also minimally impactful on the delicate reef systems. Banyu liaises directly with the Wakatobi National Park Authority and our conservation partners to ensure our operations contribute positively to the region’s preservation.
Sari Dewi
Director of Guest Experience & Concierge Services
Credentials: Certified Travel Associate (CTA), 15 years of experience as a senior concierge at Nihi Sumba and Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan.
Bio: Sari is the heart of our client relations. Her extensive background in world-class luxury hospitality means that no detail is too small and no request is too complex. She and her team manage all aspects of our guests’ journeys, from complex international flight routings and private jet charters to dietary restrictions and special occasion planning. Sari’s philosophy is simple: the luxury experience begins long before you step on the boat. She is the reason our service feels effortless and intuitive.
Captain Iwan Kusuma
Head of Maritime Operations & Safety
Credentials: Ahli Nautika Tingkat I (ANT I) Master Mariner Certificate, SOLAS & STCW certified, 25 years of experience captaining phinisi yachts across the Indonesian archipelago.
Bio: Captain Iwan is our guardian of safety and operational excellence. He is responsible for the rigorous vetting of all partner vessels and their crew. His audit process, detailed in our Methodology, covers everything from engine room maintenance and navigation equipment (mandating AIS, GPS, and satellite communication) to crew certifications and emergency response drills. Having navigated the waters from Raja Ampat to Komodo and Wakatobi for decades, his practical knowledge is invaluable. He ensures every Wakatobi liveaboard in our portfolio meets or exceeds both Indonesian and international maritime safety standards.
Putu Wijaya
Lead Dive Guide & Expedition Leader
Credentials: PADI IDC Staff Instructor, EFR Instructor Trainer, 5000+ logged dives in Wakatobi.
Bio: Putu represents the caliber of guides we work with. He is not just a dive master; he is an educator and a storyteller of the sea. His ability to spot rare macro critters, his calm demeanor, and his commitment to diver safety are legendary. Putu leads our internal training programs for freelance guides we collaborate with, ensuring that the in-water experience is consistently exceptional and safe. He embodies our commitment to providing not just a dive trip, but a true expedition led by the very best in the field.
Continue exploring Wakatobi Liveaboard Voyages:
Our Wakatobi Liveaboard Voyages Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance
