Meet Our Team of Curators and Guides
The soul of Retreat Phinisi lies in its people. We have assembled a dedicated team of Indonesian and international experts who are not only masters of their respective crafts but also share a profound passion for the sea, for wellness, and for sharing the magic of the archipelago. They are the guardians of your safety, the facilitators of your transformation, and the architects of your unforgettable journey. Our hiring and training practices are guided by our rigorous standards of excellence.
Aria Wirjawan
Founder & Chief Visionary Officer
Credentials: MBA in Hospitality Management, Cornell University; 20+ years in luxury resort development with Juara Holding Group.
Bio: Aria is the visionary behind Retreat Phinisi. Having spent two decades developing some of Indonesia’s most iconic luxury properties, he saw an opportunity to create a more intimate and transformative travel experience. A passionate sailor and a student of Indonesian history, Aria envisioned a floating sanctuary that would honor the Phinisi tradition while offering world-class wellness and hospitality. He guides the company’s strategic direction, ensuring every retreat aligns with our core values of authenticity, sustainability, and profound guest experience.
Ibu Dewi Lestari
Lead Wellness Facilitator
Credentials: E-RYT 500 (Yoga Alliance), Certified Breathwork Facilitator (Alchemy of Breath), Certified Sound Healer (Sound Healing Academy), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Qualified.
Bio: With over 15 years of experience leading retreats in the spiritual heart of Ubud, Bali, Dewi brings a deep, intuitive wisdom to our wellness programs. She masterfully blends traditional yogic philosophy with contemporary therapeutic modalities. Dewi designs and leads our daily yoga, meditation, breathwork, and sound healing sessions, creating a safe and nurturing space for guests to explore their inner landscapes. Her gentle guidance and profound understanding of energy work are central to the transformative nature of the Retreat Phinisi experience.
Captain Bachtiar Yusuf
Head of Marine Operations
Credentials: ANT-I (Ahli Nautika Tingkat I – Master Mariner Class 1), Indonesian Directorate General of Sea Transportation; 25+ years navigating the Indonesian Archipelago.
Bio: Captain Bachtiar is a true man of the sea, hailing from a long line of Bugis sailors in South Sulawesi. With the waters of Komodo, Raja Ampat, and the Banda Sea as his backyard, his knowledge of the currents, winds, and hidden anchorages is unparalleled. He is responsible for the safe navigation of our fleet and the management of our exceptional crew. His calm demeanor and unwavering commitment to safety ensure that every voyage is not just breathtakingly beautiful, but also impeccably secure.
Dr. Rina Anggraini
Lead Divemaster & Marine Biologist
Credentials: PADI IDC Staff Instructor #123456; M.Sc. in Marine Biology, Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB).
Bio: Rina’s passion for the underwater world is infectious. As a PADI Instructor and a trained marine biologist, she offers guests a unique and educational window into the vibrant ecosystems of the Coral Triangle. She leads our diving and snorkeling expeditions with a sharp eye for both spectacular marine life and safety. Rina also spearheads our conservation initiatives, training guests in responsible marine interaction and collecting valuable data for our partners like WWF Indonesia. Her briefings are legendary, turning every dive into a fascinating lesson in marine ecology.
Sari Wulandari
Director of Guest Experience
Credentials: B.A. in International Hospitality Management, Swiss Hotel Management School; Former Guest Relations Manager at Amanjiwo.
Bio: Sari is the architect of the seamless Retreat Phinisi journey. From the moment you inquire about a retreat to your final farewell, she and her team manage every detail with grace and precision. Drawing on her experience with world-renowned luxury brands, Sari ensures that our service standards are intuitive, personalized, and flawless. She curates every aspect of the guest experience, from dietary preferences and pre-trip arrangements to onboard surprises and post-trip follow-up, making each guest feel completely cared for.
Continue exploring Retreat Phinisi:
Our Retreat Phinisi Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance
The Art of the Retreat Phinisi Experience
Imagine the gentle creak of ancient timber beneath your feet, the scent of sea salt mingling with exotic spices, and the panoramic embrace of the Indonesian archipelago unfolding before you. This is not just a journey; it is an immersion designed to awaken your senses and rejuvenate your spirit. At the heart of every Retreat Phinisi voyage lies a profound commitment to holistic well-being and unparalleled personalization. We believe true luxury is found in bespoke experiences that cater to your deepest desires for relaxation, adventure, and self-discovery. Each itinerary is meticulously crafted, moving beyond standard tourism to offer a transformative escape. From sunrise yoga sessions on deck, guided by our resident wellness practitioners, to mindful meditation amidst the tranquil vastness of the sea