Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Trafford Proos | South African | 0 | |
| 0 | ||||
| Number of Crew: 4 | Languages: English | |||
Captain: Trafford Proos
Captain Trafford Proos, born on South Africa's east coast, began his maritime connection early, working as a lifeguard. With an engineering degree, he entered the yachting industry in the South of France in 2014, starting as a deckhand before rapidly advancing. His career took a significant turn when he moved to the USA, where he became the first mate on a 133' vessel, showcasing his leadership and maritime expertise. He was promoted to First Officer on a 180' vessel in 2017, further enhancing his nautical skills. In 2018, Proos became the captain of various yachts, eventually leading the Vessel NMW, significantly contributing to its construction and launching its charter program in 2022. Under his leadership, the NMW has cruised through the Bahamas, South Florida, and New England, providing memorable experiences. Apart from his professional life, Proos enjoys reading, drawing, theater, and engaging with nature through hiking, skiing, diving, and surfing. His diverse interests reflect his appreciation for arts, culture, and adventure. Captain Proos embodies the spirit of a guardian of the sea, an adventurer, and a curator of unique experiences, dedicated to the maritime world and excellence in all his endeavors.
Mate: Stefanus (Stefan) Visser
Born in Bloemfontein and raised in Cape Town, Stefan spent his youth amidst the city's waves and mountains, sharing his love for water sports from a family boat. Inspired by London's art and design, he pursued architecture, further embracing the sea as a crew member on Cape Town sailboat charters. Globally, as an experiential education leader, he led diverse projects from community development to outdoor adventures, including conservation efforts with Southeast Asian elephants. Stefan's rich blend of land and sea experiences enables him to offer unparalleled service and memorable adventures to his guests onboard.
Stewardess: Jazmine Melendez
As a born-and-bred Floridian, Jazmine stumbled upon a promising career in the private yachting sector while exploring her own backyard. During her time working in hospitality, she grew passionate about food and wine, and the magic of a wonderful meal shared amongst loved ones. Her spare time is spent mapping out her next adventure and staying active with activities like snorkeling, hiking, and yoga.
Chef: Paula Chiabai
Chef Paula, with roots in Brazil and Italy, transitioned from a 15-year career as a dentist to pursue her culinary passion. Self-taught and fueled by creativity and a conscientious approach, she has honed her skills in high-paced restaurants in Rome and Dublin, completed an internship at a Michelin-starred venue, and excelled as a private chef and on super-yachts. Dedicated and detail-oriented, Paula delights in crafting exceptional dishes across a variety of global cuisines, expertly pairing them with wines to satisfy the most demanding palates.
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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