Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Desmond Greyling | South African | 0 | |
| 0 | ||||
| Number of Crew: 4 | Languages: English | |||
Des Greyling - Captain
Education/Certifications: City and Guilds Electronic Origination Degree in Graphic Design, PADI Master Scuba diver trainer, MCA – IYT Master of Yachts 200T Oceans
Nationality: South African
Description:
Des was born and raised in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, the country’s headquarters for shipping located on the South Coast. His father was a shipping and ports enthusiast, and on the weekends, Des would accompany him to the harbors to watch the commercial vessels load and offload their cargo. This is where his love for boats and the sea began. His family moved away from the coast to Johannesburg as he started high school, and his mom bribed him to get higher grades in his graduating year by sending him to a scuba diving class. After a career in graphic design and advertising, he left the world of offices, cubicles and traffic for a more relaxed life in Southern Thailand. He sailed lasers and mirrors as a kid on lakes growing up, but only started boating after leaving his career in graphic design in 2002. He was drawn to the yachting industry by the opportunity to travel and meet interesting people, and has worked on private yachts, charter vessels, dive liveaboards and sailing catamarans since 2000. His two favorite destinations are Chamonix Vineyard and Resort in South Africa, and the Exumas in the Bahamas. In his spare time, you’ll find Des free diving and scuba diving. Captain Des has been cruising the Bahamas for almost 20yrs and looks forward to showing you around his back yard, the beautiful Exuma cays! You may recognize this top notch Captain, as he previously was a Captain on both 98' EMRYS and 94' QUINTESSA.
James Dellis - Mate
Nationality: British & South African
Description:
James was born and raised in Durban, on South Africa’s coast James has always lived a life near the sea. His love for the ocean and his great sense of adventure led him into yachting 5 years ago, where he has worked on vessels up to 65m (215ft). Prior to yachting he completed a Marketing Management University degree, in addition to competing in national field hockey tournaments in SA and the UK, along side coaching children. He loves all sports related activities, as well as golf, soccer, rugby, scuba diving, surfing and snowboarding. With taste buds as adventurous as his spirit in his down time he loves experiencing new cuisines and cultures across the world, whilst capturing memories from above with his drone. James’ friendly and approachable demeanor will entice you to explore the beautiful activities that await you in the Exumas cays.
Alexandra Byard Merialdi - Chief Stewardess
Nationality: British & Italian
Languages Spoken: English
Description:
Alex was brought up in an international environment having lived in the UK, France, Italy and Peru. She subsequently is quadrilingual and pursued her passion for languages by completing a University degree in French and Spanish. Alex comes from a close knit family and has a passion for traveling which has brought her to exploring some beautiful destinations and cultures across the globe. Since high school, volunteering has played an important part of her life, from sports coaching children and adults with disabilities to educational work in Fiji and Peru. Active and outgoing Alex has been in the hospitality industry for the last 10 years, 4 of which on yachts, ranging in size up to 215ft. Her background has greatly contributed to making her exceptional at catering to all guests needs. She takes pride in providing tasty cocktails, excellent service and is devoted to making your time onboard M/Y Insieme unforgettable.
Jason Avakian - Chef
Education/Certifications: A.O.S Degree in Culinary Arts, S.F. California Culinary Academy, STCW 95, ENG 1
Nationality: USA
Description:
Jason is highly motivated yet easy going Californian transplanted to south Florida with 24 years of professional yacht experience as chef. Jason boasts an impressive track record with notable stints of 8, 6, and 3 1/2 years, where he has successfully completed numerous charters, freelanced, and catered to private clients aboard yachts. Previously, Jason owned and served as the Executive Chef at Avakian’s Restaurant and Taqueria in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. His culinary expertise spans a diverse range, encompassing Mediterranean, American, Caribbean, French, Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free, Keto, Paleo sushi, and the art of crafting artisanal breads and pastries. Beyond the galley, Jason's passions extend to surfing, golfing, and spearfishing—ensuring the freshest catch for the evening's delight. A true team player, Jason harmonizes effortlessly with diverse personalities. Born and raised in the coastal haven of Santa Barbara, California, he carries the ocean in his veins and thrives in the aquatic ambiance. Chef Jason looks forward to welcoming you to his table on board 105’ INSIEME.
Desmond Greyling
Captain
Alexandra Byard Merialdi
Stewardess
James Dellis
Mate
Jason Avakian
Chef
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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