A Journey of Passion – Q&A with Jinggo Janggo Owners Francois & Maya

Francois and Maya, the dynamic duo behind the Jinggo Janggo, share their inspiring journey. Francois, once an engineer in Kuala Lumpur, always longed for the sea. However, the winds around Malaysia weren’t ideal for sailing, and something was missing. 

Everything changed when they reconnected with Jinggo Janggo, a phinisi yacht they first encountered in 2006 while working in Balikpapan. With a deep love for diving and the Komodo Island region, the yacht seemed like destiny. Investing in it was the perfect way to bring their passion to life. 

Now, they invite guests on an unforgettable adventure where every moment onboard is cozy, comfortable, and extraordinary.

1. Can you share the story behind your decision to invest on the Jinggo Janggo together?

From 2011, we used to live in Kuala Lumpur where Francois was an engineer for a big company. However, something important was missing in his life: the connection to the sea. Therefore, he was looking to buy a sailing boat in Malaysia. The problem is that the winds around Malaysia are not very suitable for sailing. His curiosity led him to look for Indonesian phinisi to sell, so he found Jinggo Janggo. You have to understand that we already knew Jinggo Janggo from our previous work in Balikpapan, or more precisely, we met the owner of this vessel in 2006. JJ had been operating in Komodo for years, and as both of us were divers, we had always been attracted to Komodo without finding time to go. It clicked straight away: the boat, the ocean, the diving. 

2. How do you both balance your individual visions and ideas for the yacht while working as partners?

Living and working together is something that not everybody can do. We were lucky to meet while working on a project on Sakhalin Island, Russia. Only later, we became partners and started a family. On the cruising project, it was quite simple that Francois was the leader as it was his longing manifested through the yacht, diving, and cruising, and I was (and still am) fondly and deeply supporting him in this dream. Don’t misunderstand; I love this project too and my fundamental values which are respect for human beings, respect for the environment, honesty, and authenticity must be respected. But it is his dream manifestation.

3. How did each of you contribute to the yacht’s design and functionality? Were there any particular aspects that one of you focused on more?

In the beginning, from his background as an engineer and operational, Francois was in charge of everything related to boat maintenance and operations, and later on, boat construction, with the birth of Jakare Liveaboard. I was in charge of customer relationships and bookings as well as financial matters. Since the end of COVID, our team has grown, and we are now holding management and leadership positions. 

4. What kind of experience do you both want guests to have when they come aboard your yacht?

We want them to feel at home, cozy, and comfortable with a taste of uniqueness and extraordinary.

5. Can you share some of the special or unique experiences that guests can expect while cruising on your yacht?
   
   • -the encounter of your first manta ray
   • -waking up in the silence of the rising sun and quiet ocean 
   • -yummy breakfast onboard after the first dive / snorkeling of the day
   • -crazy unique diving experiences with the ocean aliveaness playing in the currents
   • -observing the wild life on the islands, such as eagles, wild pigs, deer, and of course, the famous dragons
   • -sipping a drink on JJ deck at sunset, one day under the migration of bats and, an another day, surrounded by a school of dolphins
   • -taking a family nap or reading a good book between two dives / snorkeling, emjoying the bliss and quietness of the boat and ocean.
     
     
6. How do you incorporate the local culture and environment into the guest experience?

Our crew is an Indonesian crew from Flores and Sulawesi. They embody the Indonesian culture. Our chef is from Flores and he loves to share with the guests his love of Indonesian food. Moreover we organize for the guests visit of Rinca or Komodo villages if they are willing. And the highlight of local environment will be the visit of the Komodo dragons either on Komodo island or Rinca island.

7. Can you share a memorable moment or story that highlights the uniqueness of your yacht?

When we bought Jinggo Janggo in 2012, our idea was to enjoy it as well as the guests. Therefore we have done so many trips with friends and family onboard JJ. All those memories are engraved in all our heart. Even our kids who were still small at that time remember all. 

Why Book a Cruise Onboard Jinggo Janggo?

1. 1. Intimate & Exclusive: Our vessel is designed for small groups of 5 guests to ensure a private, personalized experience.
2. 2. Diverse Adventures: We offer flexible activities for both divers and non-divers.
3. 3. Family-Friendly: The Jinggo Janggo vessel is an ideal, safe, and engaging environment for families with young children.
4. 4. Custom Itineraries: We accommodate personally tailored visits to iconic sights or discover hidden gems.
5. 5. Warm Hospitality: Our crew’s exceptional service and comfort will make you feel at home.
6. 6. Soulful Journey: Our handmade wooden boat provides a unique and unforgettable experience that creates lasting memories.