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About Calico Jack Charters
From humble beginnings to high-seas legends, our story is one of adventure, discovery, and a splash of pirate spirit.
From humble beginnings to high-seas legends, our story is one of adventure, discovery, and a splash of pirate spirit.
It all began in 2014, when we launched our very first vessel, the Calico Jack. Since then, we’ve been sailing through the stunning waters of the Indonesian archipelago, inviting guests to dive, explore, and live the ocean dream.
The Legend of Calico Jack
Over the years, Calico Jack has become something of a legend in the Indonesia liveaboard world, a perfect blend of professional seamanship and laid-back, family-style cruising.
With every voyage, she’s carried explorers, divers, and dreamers across some of the most breathtaking waters on Earth, deep into the Indonesian archipelago from Komodo to Raja Ampat and beyond.
A New Chapter: Anne Bonny
Even before the world hit pause during the pandemic, we were already charting our next course, expanding our fleet with a second vessel. Inspired by Calico Jack’s legacy, and named after his fierce and fearless partner in adventure: Anne Bonny.
Anne Bonny is our boutique beauty, a luxurious, intimate ship designed for honeymoons, family getaways, and exclusive retreats across Indonesian waters. She’s where elegance meets the open sea, offering guests a touch of indulgence wrapped in adventure.
On the Horizon: Mary Read
The next chapter is already taking shape with Mary Read, our future expedition vessel. She’ll be the boldest of the fleet, built for research missions, high-end surfing and diving adventures, and the exploration of uncharted waters Indonesia.
Together, Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read will form a fleet that celebrates the spirit of discovery, past, present, and future, inviting every guest to write their own sea story beneath the Indonesian sun.
Meet the Crew
Jamie Yaar
London born, the road to this amazing project involved, music, film, arts and plenty of travel. Jamie ended up on the beaches of Sulawesi just as Calico Jack was born, following the build process and experiencing the amazing local Bugis culture, he ended up settling for a decade on the wooden boat strewn beaches of Bira.
Now living in Bali full time managing and helping to run Calico Jack charters, his dream job.
Katja
Katja has been part of Calico Jack and Anne Bonny since the very early days, playing a central role in shaping the way the boats run today. Equal parts organiser, problem-solver, and calm presence in the middle of ocean chaos, she handles the operations and logistics that keep us moving smoothly through some of Indonesia’s most remote waters. Whether she’s coordinating routes, managing crew and supplies, or making sure every guest feels looked after, Katja is the quiet engine behind the Calico Jack experience.
Adam
Adam grew up in Albury, Australia, and has spent most of his life chasing adventure across oceans, jungles, and anywhere with a bit of risk involved. A trained tradesman with a talent for problem-solving, in 2010, he partnered with Jamie Mayer to build Calico Jack from the sands of Bira. Today, Adam is the hands-on captain and co-owner of Calico Jack and Anne Bonny, known for his easygoing leadership, deep knowledge of Indonesia’s remote waters, and the “captain’s intuition” you only earn after thousands of nautical miles.
Jay
Giorgio, a marine biologist and Cruise director for Calico Jack Liveaboard He has spent 10 years in the dive industry as skilled dive instructor, he advocates for marine conservation, blending scientific insights with hands-on experience to inspire and educate divers worldwide.
Rosa
Rosa’s journey to the sea is as bold as the adventures she leads. Before becoming our Cruise Director, she worked in emergency medicine and ran a nonprofit in Rwanda — fearless both on land and at sea. For nine years, she’s called Pulau Weh, Indonesia, home, diving its vibrant reefs and sharing their hidden wonders. From camouflaged critters to rare marine gems, Rosa turns every dive into a treasure hunt for the curious at heart.
The Legendary Bugis Seafares:
History, Legends, and Maritime Heritage
The Historical Voyage of the Bugis People
The Bugis people of South Sulawesi, Indonesia, are legendary for their exceptional seafaring skills and rich maritime heritage. Renowned as master shipbuilders and fearless sailors, the Bugis have left an indelible mark on the history of Southeast Asia’s trade and exploration. This article delves into the captivating history, enduring legends, and the profound impact of the Bugis seafaring traditions.
Dating back to the 12th century, the Bugis emerged as a dominant maritime force in the Indonesian archipelago. Their strategic location in South Sulawesi enabled them to become pivotal players in regional trade networks, connecting the Spice Islands with China, India, and the Middle East. The Bugis were not only astute traders but also formidable navigators who braved the treacherous waters of the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea.
Central to their maritime success was their expertise in shipbuilding. The Bugis crafted the iconic Phinisi schooners, traditional two-masted sailing ships renowned for their speed and durability. These vessels were instrumental in establishing the Bugis as leading maritime traders and explorers, facilitating cultural and economic exchanges across continents.
Legends that Sail Through Time
The Bugis are shrouded in rich folklore and legends that reflect their deep connection with the sea. One of the most famous is the epic of Sawerigading, a prince whose adventurous voyages are chronicled in the La Galigo—one of the longest literary works in the world. This epic tale embodies the Bugis spirit of adventure, courage, and the quest for knowledge.
Another intriguing aspect of Bugis mythology is the belief in the “Orang Laut” or sea people—mythical beings who are said to guide and protect sailors during their voyages. These legends underscore the spiritual relationship the Bugis have with the ocean, viewing it as both a provider and a realm requiring deep respect.
The Enduring Maritime Legacy
Today, the maritime traditions of the Bugis continue to thrive. The art of building Phinisi ships has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, ensuring the preservation of these ancient techniques for future generations. The Bugis sailors and their vessels remain a symbol of Indonesia’s rich nautical history.
The influence of the Bugis extends beyond Indonesia’s shores. Historically, they established settlements in Malaysia, the Philippines, and even as far as Madagascar, spreading their culture and maritime expertise. Modern descendants continue to celebrate their heritage through festivals, maritime expeditions, and the continued practice of traditional shipbuilding.