Our Team — Indonesia Luxury Phinisi Shipyard Specialists

Meet Our Team of Maritime Experts and Master Craftsmen

The strength of Boat Builder Indonesia lies in our unique blend of talent. We have assembled a world-class team that combines generations of traditional shipbuilding knowledge with international expertise in naval architecture, project management, and luxury hospitality. Each member is a leader in their field, united by a passion for creating the world’s finest Phinisi yachts. Our commitment to expertise is central to our methodology and the trust our clients place in us.

Andi Yusuf

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Credentials: M.Sc. in Maritime Economics, University of Piraeus; B.Eng. in Naval Architecture, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) Surabaya.

Bio: Hailing from a Bugis family with deep roots in maritime trade, Andi brings a unique combination of heritage and modern business acumen. After a decade working in shipping logistics in Singapore and Greece, he returned to Indonesia with a vision to elevate the Phinisi to the global superyacht stage. As part of the Juara Holding Group, Andi provides the strategic direction for the company, ensuring that every project balances authentic craftsmanship with sound investment principles for our B2B clients.

Daeng Mustafa

Head Shipwright (Panrita Lopi)

Credentials: Master Craftsman with over 40 years of apprenticeship and building experience in Tana Beru, South Sulawesi. Recognized as a master by the local community council.

Bio: Daeng Mustafa is the heart and soul of our shipyard. He is a Panrita Lopi, a title of immense respect that signifies not just a master builder, but a keeper of the sacred traditions of Phinisi construction. He learned his craft at the feet of his father and grandfather, and he can determine the strength of a timber beam by its sound alone. Daeng leads our team of local craftsmen, overseeing the entire traditional hull construction process, ensuring every vessel is imbued with the spirit and resilience that has defined the Phinisi for centuries.

Dr. Isabella Hartono, C.Eng

Lead Naval Architect & Technical Director

Credentials: Ph.D. in Marine Engineering, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft); Member of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA).

Bio: Dr. Hartono is the bridge between tradition and technology. She is one of Indonesia’s foremost naval architects, specializing in the structural analysis and systems integration for wooden vessels. Her team is responsible for translating the traditional hull form into sophisticated 3D models, conducting stability analysis, and designing the integration of modern propulsion, navigation, and onboard systems. She ensures every vessel not only looks magnificent but also performs flawlessly and meets the stringent safety and classification requirements of Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) and international standards.

David Chen

Director of Project Management

Credentials: PMP (Project Management Professional); B.Sc. in Construction Management, National University of Singapore (NUS).

Bio: With over 15 years of experience managing the construction of luxury resorts and high-end properties across Southeast Asia for groups like Aman and Four Seasons, David brings a rigorous, detail-oriented approach to our shipyard. He is our clients’ primary point of contact throughout the build, providing regular progress reports, managing budgets and timelines, and coordinating the complex logistics of sourcing materials and equipment from around the globe. His expertise ensures that projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the uncompromising standards of the luxury market.

Siti Rahayu

Head of Legal & Compliance

Credentials: LL.M. in Maritime Law, University of Southampton; Member of the Indonesian Advocates Association (PERADI).

Bio: Navigating the Indonesian maritime regulatory landscape requires specialized expertise, and Siti is our guide. She manages all contractual matters, vessel registration, flagging, and operational licensing. Siti ensures our clients’ assets are fully compliant with the regulations of the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub), the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), and local port authorities (KSOP). Her proactive approach de-risks the investment and ensures a smooth transition from shipyard to successful charter operations.

Our extended team includes dozens of skilled carpenters, electricians, marine mechanics, and finishing specialists who bring our visions to life. To understand how this team collaborates to produce exceptional vessels, please visit our primary boat builder Indonesia page.


Continue exploring Boat Builder Indonesia:
Our Boat Builder Indonesia Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance

As featured in
Conde Nast Traveler Travel + Leisure Robb Report Forbes Bloomberg
Member of Indonesia Travel Industry Association  ·  ASITA  ·  Licensed Indonesia tour operator (Kemenparekraf RI)