Updated: May 2026
Meet Our Team of Cenderawasih Bay Experts
The Cenderawasihbay.com experience is crafted by a dedicated team of Indonesian and international experts, each a leader in their respective field. We combine decades of luxury hospitality management, marine biology, and on-the-ground Papuan operational expertise to deliver journeys of unparalleled quality and authenticity. Our team is our greatest asset, and their passion for Cenderawasih Bay is the heart of every expedition we design.
Leadership
Hendra Wijaya
Founder & CEO, Juara Holding Group
Credentials: B.S. in Hospitality Management, Cornell University; 20+ years in Indonesian luxury resort development and logistics.
Bio: Hendra is the visionary behind the Juara Holding Group. Hailing from a family with deep roots in Indonesian trade and hospitality, he has spent his career developing and managing some of the nation’s most iconic luxury properties. His passion for marine exploration and frustration with the logistical challenges of high-end travel to remote Indonesia led to the creation of Cenderawasihbay.com. Hendra’s extensive network within Indonesia’s government and business communities ensures our operations are always seamless and fully compliant. He oversees the strategic direction of the company, ensuring every guest experience aligns with the Juara standard of excellence.
Ibu Kartika Sari
Head of Operations, Cenderawasih Bay
Credentials: M.S. in Marine Biology, Universitas Cenderawasih (UNCEN); Certified Guide, Himpunan Pramuwisata Indonesia (HPI); PADI Divemaster.
Bio: Born and raised in Manokwari on the shores of the bay, Kartika possesses an unparalleled understanding of the region’s ecosystems and cultures. Her academic background is complemented by a lifetime of practical experience navigating its waters and building relationships with local village leaders. Kartika manages all our on-the-ground operations, from guide training and community relations to coordinating with the National Park authorities (BTNTC). Her leadership ensures our trips are not only spectacular but also culturally sensitive and beneficial to the local communities she calls home.
Specialist Team
Dr. Ben Carter
Lead Marine Biologist & Conservation Advisor
Credentials: Ph.D. in Marine Biology, James Cook University; Published researcher on Rhincodon typus (whale shark) behavior; Former consultant for WWF Indonesia.
Bio: Dr. Carter is our resident scientific authority. He has spent over a decade researching the unique, non-migratory whale shark population of Cenderawasih Bay. He designed our proprietary ‘Whale Shark Encounter’ protocols, which prioritize the animals’ welfare while allowing for breathtakingly intimate interactions. Ben advises on all our itineraries to maximize wildlife sightings, leads specialized scientific expeditions for interested guests, and oversees our conservation funding programs. His expertise ensures our content is accurate and our practices are at the forefront of ethical wildlife tourism, as detailed in our Editorial Standards.
Isabelle Dubois
Head of Guest Experience & Concierge Services
Credentials: Certified Travel Associate (CTA); 15 years experience with global luxury travel consortiums and as Head Concierge at a Forbes Five-Star hotel in Bali.
Bio: Isabelle is the architect of our clients’ journeys. With a career dedicated to anticipating the needs of the world’s most discerning travelers, she brings a meticulous eye for detail to every itinerary. From arranging seamless private jet connections and curating bespoke culinary experiences on board to sourcing rare amenities, Isabelle ensures that the luxury standard is upheld even in the most remote settings. She and her team are the primary point of contact for our clients, providing 24/7 support from the moment of inquiry until their safe return home.
Captain Yusuf Iskandar
Fleet & Safety Director
Credentials: Ahli Nautika Tingkat I (ANT I) Master Mariner Certificate; SOLAS & STCW Certified; 25+ years as a Phinisi and superyacht captain in Indonesian waters.
Bio: Safety and maritime excellence are Captain Yusuf’s domain. A highly respected captain with an unblemished safety record, he oversees the selection, maintenance, and crewing of our entire partner fleet. He personally vets every vessel and captain to ensure they meet our stringent safety and operational standards, which are compliant with both Indonesian (BKI) and international maritime law. His intimate knowledge of the bay’s currents, weather patterns, and anchorages is invaluable. Captain Yusuf’s rigorous protocols are the foundation of our guests’ safety and peace of mind.
Our extended team of guides, crew, and local partners are the backbone of our operations. Each is chosen for their expertise, professionalism, and shared commitment to our values. To begin your journey with us, explore our Cenderawasih Bay Guide.
Continue exploring Cenderawasihbay:
Our Cenderawasihbay Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance
Our dive and marine conservation experts
Beneath the glass-like surface of Cenderawasih Bay, a vibrant, untouched world pulses with life, a realm our marine specialists navigate with profound expertise and reverence. Our team includes PADI-certified Master Scuba Diver Trainers and resident marine biologists. Their deep understanding of these waters ensures not only unparalleled diving experiences but also the utmost respect for the ecosystem. They guide guests through pristine coral gardens, pointing out unique species found nowhere else on Earth.
Beyond guiding, our experts are actively involved in ongoing conservation efforts. We collaborate with local communities and scientific institutions to monitor marine health, track whale shark movements, and promote sustainable tourism practices. For instance, our lead marine biologist, Dr. Anya
