Captain Jefri of Katharina: Where the Journey Begins Again

By Widya Hapsari

Before joining Seatrek, Jefri worked aboard cargo ships, transporting fuel and oversized containers across the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific. He traveled vast distances, docking throughout the South Pacific, yet his experience of these places rarely extended beyond the harbor. He witnessed development from afar, imagining the cities and landscapes beyond port walls, but seldom had the chance to explore them himself. That longing to see what lay beyond the port eventually led him to our beloved Katharina.

A Childhood Shaped by Nature

Jefri’s belief in Seatrek’s values is deeply rooted in his upbringing. He grew up in Kariagi Village near Manado, North Sulawesi, an area once surrounded by dense forest rich in biodiversity. Endemic wildlife of Sulawesi, such as the babirusa (Babyrousa celebensis) and the Celebes macaque, shaped his early connection to nature. This environment nurtured his love for adventure, trekking, and exploration from a young age.

Joining Seatrek felt like a return to those childhood memories. He grew up hiking mountains, swimming in the sea, and exploring hidden places around Sulawesi. Today, those experiences resurface during his time at sea.

Favorite Routes and the Joy of Exploration

Among all Seatrek routes, Sorong–Ternate stands out as Jefri’s favorite, an itinerary rich in both landscapes and activities. From jeep rides inland to long walks toward bird-nesting sites, it is the journey itself, on land and water, that excites him most.

He is also especially fond of the Ternate–Bitung itineraries, where snorkeling plays a central role. Whenever possible, Jefri joins the tour leaders during excursions. It is not unusual to find him snorkeling alongside guests. This reflects not only his curiosity about the underwater world but also his strong sense of responsibility for the overall guest experience.

Preparation Beats Planning

“Preparation beats planning,” Jefri says.

He communicates closely with tour leaders, carefully aligning daily activities with weather forecasts and sea conditions. One of the most challenging routes he recalls is Maumere–Ambon, which involves crossing the Banda Sea.

The Banda Sea is open, deep, and unpredictable. It lies between four surrounding seas near the Maluku Archipelago, Seram, Halmahera, and the Molucca Sea. Long distances between islands, limited shelter, and rapidly changing weather demand constant assessment. Sailing here requires experience, patience, and deep respect for the sea. Jefri relies on forecasting tools such as Windy, combined with real-time information from his sailing network.

Leadership in Uncertain Conditions

Leadership, for Jefri, is tested most when conditions become difficult. When the crew feels anxious, he must remain calm and decisive.

“A captain carries full responsibility,” he says. “You must be mentally and physically ready.”

One defining moment came during a Sorong–Sorong voyage, when plans to reach Misool had to change while still at Batanta. Rerouting offered better protection from rough conditions. Although it altered the itinerary, guest safety came first.

Connection with Guests

Another meaningful reward comes from guest experiences. Jefri often walks with guests, swims alongside them, and joins village visits, moments that remind him of his own roots. Once, a guest personally acknowledged his presence and dedication. For Jefri, that recognition mattered deeply.

Life Beyond the Helm

At heart, Jefri is a family man. His family’s support fuels him through the demanding nature of his work, which requires long periods away from home. His wife often reminds him to rest whenever he can.

During Komodo itineraries, he sometimes invites his family aboard. Sharing life at sea helps them understand the rhythm of his world and the passion that keeps him returning to it.

When you are on board, take the time to talk with Captain Jefri. Walk with him, snorkel beside him, and you may discover how his childhood dream continues, quietly and steadily, through Seatrek.

Get to know more of our SeaTrek Family on Katharina:

• Rajab: The Man Whose Heart is as Big as the Sea
• Chef Ari: Story From The Man Behind The Katharina’s Kitchen
• Bayu: The Smile You Expect to See on Katharina