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Methodology — research and verification
About · Methodology

Our Methodology

How we evaluate vessels, operators, and dive sites. A systematic framework — not opinion polls — informs our recommendations.
Our recommendations come from systematic evaluation across measurable criteria — not subjective preferences. Below is the framework we use to assess every operator and dive site we feature.

Our Evaluation Criteria

Safety standards

STCW compliance · onboard medical capability · life raft + EPIRB · O2 supply · DAN protocol training.

Vessel condition

Annual dry-dock inspection · hull integrity · engine maintenance logs · navigation/safety electronics current.

Crew quality

Min PADI Divemaster + 500 dives. Captain min 10 years phinisi experience. Native-region crew preferred.

Environmental ops

Reef-safe sunscreen policy · mooring not anchoring · waste management · no-touch enforcement.

Service quality

Guest-to-crew ratio min 1:1.5 · cabin amenities standards · meal quality benchmarks.

Pricing transparency

Itemized invoicing · no hidden fees · clear refund policy · gratuity guidance.

Our Research Process

  1. 01

    Pre-season vessel audit

    Visit each vessel in person during dry-dock or refit. Verify safety equipment, dive deck, cabins.

  2. 02

    Operations review

    Cross-check crew credentials, certifications, incident history with port authorities.

  3. 03

    Guest experience baseline

    Sail with each operator for at least one full itinerary. Anonymous booking, blind review.

  4. 04

    Annual reassessment

    Re-audit every operator each November. Drop any falling below thresholds.

Authoritative Sources We Reference

Scientific: Dr. Gerald Allen's 2012 Cape Kri biodiversity study (Conservation International) · UNESCO Coral Triangle Initiative reports · WWF Indonesia Marine Program data.Regulatory: Indonesia Ministry of Tourism + Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) · Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) · Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority.Industry: PADI Travel Network · DAN (Divers Alert Network) incident data · PHRI (Indonesian Hotel & Restaurant Association) standards.Conservation: Misool Foundation · Conservation International Indonesia · Coral Triangle Center.

Questions About Our Process?

We're happy to walk you through our evaluation of any specific vessel or dive site.
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