Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Rob Hyson | USA | 0 | 100ton USCG captain, PADI Divemaster |
| Chef | Leala Simich | USA | 0 | STCW, 100ton USCG captain, Food Safety & Hygiene L2 |
| Number of Crew: 2 | Languages: English; | |||
Captain Rob -
I'm a dynamic yacht charter captain and PADI Divemaster with over 15,000 nautical miles under my belt, always on the lookout for the next thrilling adventure. My recent role as Captain of the Leopard 58, S/Y Leeway, with Paradise Yacht Management has been an exhilarating experience. I've been hands-on with an exciting offseason refit, adding a generator and dive compressor to gear up the vessel for dive charters. My days are filled with planning unique itineraries, ensuring smooth operations, and creating unforgettable vacation experiences for our guests while exploring the stunning waters of the BVI and beyond.
Before this, I had the pleasure of captaining the Lagoon 52, S/Y Ventana. From sailing the picturesque NY Harbor to handling maintenance and repairs, every day brought new challenges and rewards. I also successfully managed the transfer of the vessel to new owners and delivered it to Belize for its next chapter as a term charter boat. My time with Sailaway New York at Chelsea Piers on a Jeanneau 50 was equally exciting, where I juggled daysails, annual Coast Guard inspections, and even stepped in as chef and photographer, making every moment count.
My journey also includes a stint as Senior Project Manager at WoodHull Maine, where I led luxury home construction projects, ensuring top-notch quality and client satisfaction. As Captain of the Fountain Pajot 50, S/Y Oceanfront Property, I planned week-long charters, maintained the vessel, and engaged with guests and brokers to create amazing sailing experiences. With certifications like USCG 100 Ton Master and PADI Divemaster, and a degree in mechanical engineering, I blend technical expertise with a passion for adventure, making each charter a joyful and memorable journey.
Chef Leala -
As an experienced yacht chef, I specialize in creating exquisite culinary experiences and ensuring seamless charters. Recently, I served on the 90 ft Ferretti, M/Y Indulge 11, navigating the waters of the BVI, USVI, and St Barts, and had another rewarding stint on the same yacht from September to August 2023.
In summer 2023, I was the chef on the 84 ft M/Y Northern Song in Alaska, catering to eight guests and four crew members. During the 2022 holiday season, I served as chef and first mate on the Helia 44, S/Y Abundance, for a term charter in the USVI. My roles on yachts like S/Y Touch the Sky, S/Y Katrina, and S/Y Heavenly throughout 2022 further honed my skills.
A highlight was cooking on the 112 ft Broward, S/Y Lady Sharon Gale, in March 2022 for eight guests in the USVI, and delivering the 130 ft Westport, S/Y Tsalta, from Ft Lauderdale to St Thomas.
Earlier roles on yachts such as S/Y Ocean Front Property, S/Y Rapscallion, and the M/Y Ship Show in New England allowed me to cater to diverse tastes in picturesque locations. I hold key certifications, including STCW Basic Training, an OUPV & 100 Ton Master Upgrade, and am a graduate of the Ashburton Yacht Chef Course, with ASA 101, 103, 104, and Multi-Hull certifications.
Every charter is an opportunity to create memorable experiences through exceptional cuisine and dedicated service, fueling my passion for delivering outstanding culinary delights and impeccable hospitality on the high seas.
Leala
Chef
Rob Hyson
Captain
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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