Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Nick Brown | American | 0 | |
| Chief Stewardess | Erin MacChesney | American | 0 | |
| Number of Crew: 4 | Languages: | |||
Captain: Nick Brown:
Before moving to Florida, Nick grew up a second-generation yachtsman hailing from Southern
California. Surfing, fishing, diving, and sailing his way through his youth. As a teenager
he took every opportunity that came his way, alongside his big brother, delivering
yachts up and down the US and Mexican coast with his dad, Captain Dan Brown. Shortly
after turning 19, he acquired his 100-ton captains license, launching him into a
commercial captain’s position aboard a 100-person passenger ferry which operated
between Long Beach, CA and Catalina Island off the Pacific Coast.
As Captain Nick’s career progressed, he added commercial tugboats, commercial fishing boats,
multiple racing sailboats and private/charter yachts to his resume. Traveling throughout
the entire Caribbean, North/South America, Pacific, Europe (including the UK and Baltic
Sea), and New England. He honed his skills of becoming a seasoned charter Captain.
Nick and his wife Erin, helped develop the M/Y Spirit program from day one, dedicating
the last 2 1⁄2 years aboard to run her at her full potential. They are looking forward to
future charter trips onboard and providing optimum service while charter clients enjoy their ideal vacation aboard the M/Y SPIRIT.
Stewardess: Erin MacChesney
First Mate: Michael O’Flaherty
Michael started boating as a young kid learning to sail on Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island. Growing up, Michael had a passion for any pastime on the ocean whether the activity had been fishing, surfing or sailing. As he got older, sailing only played more of a role in his life as he pursued sailing to the competitive level competing in regattas all up and down the east coast of the United States. Aside from sailing, Michael was a dockhand at the Newport Yachting Center Marina from 2017-2021 which ultimately facilitated his start in the marine industry. Having spent many of his days sailing, fishing or surfing, Michael has an adequate understanding of the water in order to make your yachting experience more pleasant. Michael welcomes charter guests aboard for an experience of a lifetime.
Chef: Skye Burris
Skye grew up in a small boating community on Long Island Sound. Playing on the beach or
ripping around the sound via boat every chance she got, she fell in love with being on the
water.
Skye went to college on an athletic scholarship studying Psychology and playing high level
basketball all four years. Shortly after graduation she worked in Manhattan for a prominent
American family when she felt the urge for adventure calling. Seeking to quench her thirst for adventure, she chose yachting and moved to Florida.
After working as an entry level stew aboard various yachts, Skye would help by assisting in the galley watching the chef’s prepare 5-star meals for guests. Using this platform to work as an apprentice in the Galley, her culinary Chef career began. Skye loves what she does today pouring her heart and soul into every meal from breakfast to dinner! Skye’s great culinary expertise aboard SPIRIT is one that all charter guests will enjoy during their time aboard. Bon Appetite!
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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