Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | James Speed | South African | 0 | |
| 0 | ||||
| Number of Crew: 8 | Languages: | |||
CAPTAIN - James Speed
James Speed grew up in a small town in South Africa and has been immersed in the marine industry
for over 10 years. He has a love for the ocean and is passionate about travel which ultimately drew him
to a life on the water. Yachting has fueled this passion and taken him to Mediterranean, Baltic Sea,
Russia, Eastern Europe, North and Central America. Having been on various well run charter vessels
James has extensive experience and knowledge and will ensure that your time onboard is filled with
adventure and fun. James leads from the front and has a professional, enthusiastic yet still easy going
leadership style. In 2022 he married chief stewardess Jessie Speed and together they aim to ensure your
Stay Salty experience is incredible.
When James is not on the ocean he will be Wing Foiling, Fishing, spearfishing, Kayaking or adventuring
in the mountains on two wheels or by foot.
CHIEF MATE - Gabriel Viviers
Meet Riël Viviers, a sun-kissed soul hailing from the idyllic shores of Victoria Bay, South Africa, where
he lives just a stone's throw away from an awe-inspiring surfers' paradise. Growing up surrounded by
sports enthusiasts, Riël's life has been an exhilarating journey through waves and mountains. In his
early days, he effortlessly mastered the art of surfing and spearfishing. The water beckons to Riël, but so
do the majestic mountains, which he eagerly hikes and climbs.
Post high school, Riël set his sights on the yachting industry, working tirelessly to secure his
foundational licenses right out of the gate. His unwavering commitment has set him on a course toward
the prestigious rank of a Captain one day. With a cheerful disposition and a willingness to lend a hand
both in and out of the water, Riël is the kind of person who spreads happiness wherever he goes.
CHIEF ENGINEER - Gregory Oello
Greg grew up on the small island of Jamaica filled with sunshine and beaches where he learnt early on
how to make things work and that gave him the knack for engineering.Greg completed his studies at the
Caribbean Maritime University and has been in yachting ever since. Greg loves traveling to various
countries and meeting new people. He has been onboard Stay Salty since July and works hard keeping
our engines running, No task to small and no problem to hard to solve, Greg lives his life with a smile
and his face and enjoying every day as a new adventure.
CHIEF STEWARDESS - Jessie Speed
Jessie Speed, an ocean enthusiast hailing from South Africa's east coast, found her calling in the
maritime industry a decade ago. Starting as a bar waitress on cruise ships, she embraced a life at sea.
With a deep love for the ocean and travel, Jessie fostered a passion for community support during her
time in the south Pacific, exploring remote islands and learning about diverse cultures. In 2018 she
became a certified yoga instructor, blending her passion for wellness with her maritime expertise. In
2022 Jessie married her soulmate, Captain James, forming a dynamic duo on the high seas. With their
passion and dedication to high standards and a good time, they can’t wait to have you aboard for a
memorable adventure.
CHEF - Tracy- Jane Ingle
Tracy- Jane is a professional Chef from South Africa with over 16years experience in the yachting industry. Cooking has always been her passion. Since a young age Tracy- Jane cooked with her grandma in her farm kitchen. After completing high school she studied Hospitality Management and also attended a Private Gordon Bleu Chef School and obtained her diploma in culinary arts.
Tracy- Jane’s passion is to create beautiful dishes, combining flavors, textures and using seasonal ingredients.
Tracy- Jane has a healthy and positive approach to life. She likes to read cook books and enjoys hiking and photography. Her dream is to complete the 7 summits one day.
SECOND STEWARDESS - Holly Brunt
Kia Ora! Holly was born and raised in a small surfing town on the east coast of New Zealand called
Mangawhai. Much of her childhood and teens was spent competing in international equestrian
competitions across Australia and New Zealand with her younger brother. Since graduating high school
she worked in California at a mountain ranch teaching horse riding to kids and has been in yachting for
3 years now. In her down time you’ll find her horse riding, back country hiking or close to the ocean
surfing with her family and friends. Throughout Holly’s time in the yachting industry she has worked
for prestigious programs and in all areas of the interior. Hol’s is grateful to have landed herself back
with the Stay Salty program and she can’t wait to provide a memorable experience for you onboard.
THIRD STEWARDESS/ MASSEUSE - Kendal Cole
Kendal grew up in Durban and was raised in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa. Kendal has
always had a profound connection with the ocean and her fondest memories involve vacations by the
sea. Kenz has a strong foundation in the health and wellness industry, where she brings her unique
blend of expertise and passion to her endeavors. A contagiously happy and energetic individual, Kendal
radiates positivity wherever she goes. Having dedicated a year to the industry, Kendal is just beginning
her journey in the exciting world of yachting. With her warm and uplifting personality you will see her
always smiling and embracing each day with enthusiasm.
DECKHAND- Sam Speed
Meet Sam Speed, a small town South African. He was raised a short drive from both the Drakensberg
mountains and the warm ocean of SA's east coast. After finishing schooling in South Africa Sam
pursued all avenues that lead to adventure, becoming a walking guide on the Wild Coast of South Africa
as well as joining an expedition to the frigid reaches of Antarctica on 2 separate occasions. In his time
on the Wild Coast Sam became an avid spear and fly fisherman embracing life by the sea. With an
unquenchable thirst for adventure Sam grabbed the opportunity presented to him to join the Stay Salty
team where he eagerly learns everyday as he lends a happy helping hand in any situation where it may
be required.
James Speed
Captain
Gabriel Viviers
Chief Mate
Jessie Speed
Chief Stewardess
Kendal Cole
Second Stewardess/Masseuse
Emma Bell
Third Stewardess
Gregory Hello
Engineer
Sam Speed
Deckhand
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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