Meet Our Team
At Raja Ampat Freediving, our strength lies in the collective expertise, passion, and dedication of our team. Each member is not just a professional in their field, but a true ambassador for Raja Ampat’s pristine marine environment and the transformative power of freediving. We are a diverse group of Indonesian and international specialists, united by a shared commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences while upholding the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and E-E-A-T (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
Our instructors are not only highly certified in various freediving disciplines but also possess an intimate knowledge of Raja Ampat’s unique underwater topography, currents, and marine life. Our marine conservationists bring scientific rigor to our expeditions, ensuring every interaction with the environment is respectful and educational. Our logistics and guest relations teams are seasoned professionals, dedicated to crafting seamless, personalized journeys from your arrival at Domine Eduard Osok Airport (SOQ) in Sorong to your final departure.
We believe that the human element is paramount in creating truly unforgettable experiences. Get to know the individuals who make Raja Ampat Freediving the leading choice for luxury freediving adventures in the Bird’s Head Seascape.
Our Core Team
Putra Nugraha – Lead Freediving Instructor & Operations Director
Credentials: AIDA Master Freediver Instructor, PADI Freediver Instructor Trainer, Emergency First Response Instructor, DAN Oxygen Provider, Marine Conservationist (University of Indonesia).
Bio: Hailing from Makassar, South Sulawesi, Putra’s connection to Indonesia’s waters runs deep. With over a decade of experience guiding freedivers through Raja Ampat’s intricate reefs and open ocean, he is renowned for his calm demeanor, meticulous safety protocols, and ability to inspire confidence in divers of all levels. Putra’s passion for the ocean extends to conservation; he actively collaborates with local initiatives like the Misool Foundation and Conservation International Indonesia, integrating educational components into every expedition. He ensures that all Raja Ampat Freediving operations adhere to the strict guidelines of the Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf) and local marine park authorities. His expertise in deep dive performance and pure breath apnea techniques is unmatched in the region.
Dr. Anisa Wijaya – Marine Biologist & Conservation Lead
Credentials: Ph.D. in Marine Biology (Bogor Agricultural University – IPB), Scientific Diver (AAUS equivalent), PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, Author of ‘Biodiversity Hotspots of the Bird’s Head Seascape’.
Bio: Dr. Anisa is our resident expert on Raja Ampat’s extraordinary biodiversity. Her research focuses on coral reef ecology, manta ray behavior, and sustainable tourism impacts within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Originally from Bandung, West Java, Anisa’s work with organizations like WWF Indonesia and the Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority provides invaluable scientific insight for our expeditions. She leads our educational briefings on marine life identification, responsible interaction, and the critical importance of protecting this marine sanctuary. Her deep understanding of the Misool region’s unique ecosystems enriches every guest’s experience, offering a scientific perspective on the wonders encountered.
Budi Santoso – Head of Logistics & Guest Experience
Credentials: Certified Tour Manager (ASITA – Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies), Advanced First Aid & CPR, Maritime Safety Management Certificate (Direktorat Jenderal Perhubungan Laut).
Bio: Budi, a native of Sorong, Papua Barat Daya, is the orchestrator behind the scenes, ensuring every logistical detail of your luxury freediving journey is executed flawlessly. With extensive experience in high-end Indonesian tourism, including collaborations with Garuda Indonesia for VIP transfers, Budi manages our fleet of vessels, ground transportation, and accommodation partnerships. His deep local connections and understanding of regional regulations, from AirNav Indonesia flight coordination to local port clearances, guarantee a smooth and stress-free experience. Budi’s commitment to personalized service ensures that every guest’s needs are anticipated and met with efficiency and warmth.
Dewi Lestari – Guest Relations & Cultural Liaison
Credentials: Bachelor of Hospitality Management (STP Bandung), Advanced English & Mandarin Proficiency, Certified Cultural Guide (Kemenparekraf).
Bio: From Yogyakarta, Dewi brings a refined touch to our guest relations, ensuring a warm Indonesian welcome and seamless communication throughout your stay. Her expertise extends beyond hospitality; she acts as our cultural liaison, facilitating respectful and enriching interactions with local communities in villages around Misool and Waigeo. Dewi provides insights into Papuan traditions, local customs, and supports our community engagement projects. Her dedication to personalized service and her ability to anticipate guest needs make every journey with Raja Ampat Freediving truly exceptional.
Joko Susilo – Marine Vessel Captain & Safety Officer
Credentials: Master Class II (ANT II) Certificate (Direktorat Jenderal Perhubungan Laut), Advanced Fire Fighting, Medical First Aid at Sea, STCW certified.
Bio: Captain Joko, a seasoned mariner from Ambon, Maluku, commands our primary expedition vessels with unparalleled skill and a deep understanding of Raja Ampat’s complex waters. With over 20 years of experience navigating the Bird’s Head Seascape, his knowledge of local currents, weather patterns, and safe anchorage points is invaluable. Joko is meticulous about vessel maintenance and adherence to all Indonesian marine safety regulations (Peraturan Menteri Perhubungan). His calm leadership and unwavering focus on safety ensure that every transit between freediving sites, from Misool to Wayag, is secure and comfortable for our guests.
Together, our team embodies the spirit of Raja Ampat Freediving – a blend of professional excellence, profound respect for nature, and a genuine desire to share the magic of this extraordinary destination with you. We invite you to experience the difference that true E-E-A-T makes in your luxury freediving adventure. For more about our operational standards, please visit our Editorial Standards page.
Continue exploring Raja Ampat Freediving:
Our Raja Ampat Freediving Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance