Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Sean Kampfer | American | 0 | |
| Chef | Daniela Boia' | Romanian | 0 | |
| Number of Crew: 6 | Languages: English and Romanian | |||
Captain - Sean Kampfer
Born and raised on Long Island NY, Captain Sean joined the boating scene at a young age. Beginning with his parent’s boats and restoring an old sailing boat of his own he eventually began running water taxis and mid-size passenger vessels to the city. Falling hard for yachting one summer after joining a busy charter yacht in New England he has not looked back. Sean is a hands-on captain who takes great pride in any vessel or program he runs. He is guest satisfaction oriented and aims to make your time aboard TAIL LIGHTS a fantastic and memorable one! Sean is a licensed pilot and in his spare time you might find him sailing, flying, snowboarding, golfing, and spending plenty of time at the beach. Previous yachts: SEAFARER, JOPAJU, ENDEVOUR, SERENITY, FRISKY LADY.
Chef – Daniela Boia’
Chef Daniela was born and raised in Transylvania, Romania. After finishing her studies in Public Relations, she realized how much more of the world she wanted to see so she decided to join the cruise industry and sail around the world. She went sightseeing for 8 years around the globe and moved up the ranks in various Food and Beverage departments. While on vacation in South Florida, she fell in love with a Cuban (no, just joking) she means the weather… Daniela fell in love with the South Florida weather and beaches and never left. She found her way into the yachting industry and into the Miami restaurant business very quickly, adding up more hospitality experience. When the pandemic hit, she shut down her catering business and turned to yachting again successfully sharing her culinary creations with the TAIL LIGHTS charter guests and crew.
Chief Stewardess – Michelle Horton
Michelle was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. She moved to Santa Barbara where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Economics from UC Santa Barbara. Michelle worked a full-time serving job at the Ritz Carlton, Bacara, where she found her passion for exceeding guest expectations and enjoyed meeting people from all around the world. After graduation, she moved to San Francisco to start her career at UBS as a Client Service Associate. After 2 years, Michelle decided to pursue her dream working in the yachting industry. She packed her life in a 90 pound suitcase, booked a one-way flight to Florida and never looked back. Michelle enjoys traveling, hiking, exercising and anything water-related. She loves the beach, so that is where she can be found in her spare time. Michelle’s bubbly and outgoing personality, combined with her passion for hospitality makes her a very valuable crew member on board TAIL LIGHTS.
2nd Stewardess – Paloma Estrada
Paloma Estrada Paloma grew up in sunny San Diego. She attended the University of California, Santa Barbara. After graduating she made her way up to San Francisco for two years to try out the corporate lifestyle. She realized that the office environment wasn’t her, and she packed up her things and moved to sunny Fort Lauderdale. Since joining yachting, Paloma has completed charters in the Caribbean, Bahamas and Alaska. She has learned to cultivate exceptional service and experiences for all guests. One of her main passions onboard is being able to let her creative side show by designing beautiful table settings and décor along with unique flower arrangements. Paloma loves to paint, draw, swim, hike and explore the outdoors. She’s excited to make your experience on TAIL LIGHTS the most memorable it can be! (Fun fact: Paloma and Michelle have been best friends since college.
Mate – Shane Boyle
Born in New Jersey as well as the west coast of Florida, Shane learned to love the water and watersports at a young age. In his spare time he enjoys kiteboarding and free diving as well as scuba diving.
He began his career in yachting operating tenders for guest excursions. Over his three years in yachting he has helped guests to explore unique locations, and embark upon once in a lifetime experiences. Fishing is also one of his favorite excursions to go on with guests, he knows all the great spots.
He currently holds has his 100 Ton Master & 200 Ton Mate license.
Shane is great at teaching any water-sport that the guests want to experience and is looking forward to adding an element of excitement to your journey aboard TAIL LIGHTS.
Deckhand – Kenzie Robinson
Born and raised in Ohio, yachting wasn’t always on Kenzie’s radar, but after completing a business degree at OSU and spending some time in the corporate world, she knew she wanted something different. Her love of travel and zest for life introduced her to the industry, and the amazing people she’s met and experiences she’s had along the way have fueled her excitement for this world and dedication to sharing it with others. Kenzie loves being outdoors and is always ready for the next adventure. She enjoys yoga, hiking, camping, good food, and good books and is always picking up new hobbies. As part of TAIL LIGHTS wonderful crew, she looks forward to providing a fun and memorable experience for all guests onboard.
FAQ
WHAT TO DO IN THE BAHAMAS?
We’ll be pleased to assist you in deciding which activities suit your personality and interests the best. Your crew and captain are experts. They are familiar with the locale and the greatest things to do. They can give advice on where to go fishing, diving, or snorkeling. They are aware of the locations of the remotest beaches. They can give advice on the top boutiques, eateries, or nightclubs.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN REGARDS TO MEALS?
We’ll provide you a food choice survey to fill out so we can figure out what kinds of meals you and your visitors would like to eat while you’re away. Along with your preferences, the form will ask about any dietary requirements, medical restrictions, or food allergies that any members of your party may have. Prior to your departure, you will also get the chance to ask any questions of a crew member. The team will next make your favorite cocktails and fresh, gourmet meals for the rest of the voyage.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE RATES LISTED?
Running costs are not included in the rates given for motor yacht charters and must be paid separately. Catamarans for sailing must be all-inclusive. The costs are determined by the number of people and cover all meals, drinks (including the typical ship’s bar), fuel, ice, and aquatic activities. Taxes, dockage fees, and communication expenses must all be paid individually.
Food, alcohol, fuel, dockage, port fees, and any other costs associated with the charter are considered running costs.
Typically, the operating costs represent 35% of the base charter fee. A 35% Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) will be paid in advance of your departure, giving the crew time to stock the yacht. A detailed breakdown of all costs will be provided to you at the conclusion of the charter. If there is still a balance, you will get a refund; however, if expenses are higher than the APA, you will have to pay the outstanding balance before disembarking.
ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL COSTS?
Florida’s tax ranges from 6-7%, depending on the port of embarkation, while the Bahamian tax is 14%. The charter cost also includes tax.
WHAT IF I HAVE TO CANCEL?
What to anticipate if you have to cancel your vacation is covered in your charter agreement. To protect yourself in the event that unavoidable circumstances force you to cancel your trip, we advise buying cancellation insurance.
WHAT IF I DISAGREE WITH THE CAPTAIN WHILE ON MY CHARTER?
A luxury yacht rental is made to meet all of your requirements for the entirety of your journey. The skipper and crew will do everything possible to meet and exceed your expectations. The captain’s first priority, however, is the security of his crew and the boat. He has the last say on anything that could affect the safety of passengers.
IS IT CUSTOMARY TO TIP THE CREW?
Yes. Although not required, leaving a tip is encouraged, especially if your yacht rental experience left you feeling especially satisfied. At the completion of your charter, you should give the captain a 15% gratuity.
HOW DO I RESERVE A YACHT?
Once you’ve decided on a yacht, we’ll place an “option” on it, securing it for 48 hours while you finish the paperwork. Then, a yacht charter agreement must be read and signed. We are happy to answer any queries you may have and thoroughly explain the terms. You must send your completed contract together with a deposit for the charter.
HOW MUCH IS THE DEPOSIT?
50% of the charter cost is required as a down payment; however, if there are less than 30 days to departure, the whole amount is due. The deposit is made via bank wire transfer and is kept in an escrow account by the principal agent of the yacht until just before the charter date. You have secured the yacht once we get your signed contract and down payment.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE CONTRACT IS SIGNED AND THE DEPOSIT IS MADE?
We’ll start collaborating with you to customize your charter. Your food and exercise preference survey will be delivered to you. We’ll set up a phone call for you and the crew. We will assist you in planning all charter-related details, including transportation in a limousine and flights.
WHEN IS THE FINAL PAYMENT DUE?
If you are renting a motor boat, the APA funds and the remaining balance of the charter are due 30 days before the start of your trip.
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