Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | STEVE KNOBBE | American | 0 | |
| 0 | ||||
| Number of Crew: 8 | Languages: | |||
CAPTAIN
STEVE KNOBBE | American
Steve has been in yachting for over 40 years. He started
his career in California cruising the west coast of the
United States, Canada and Mexico. In the late 90’s he
moved to Europe running charter yachts in the
Mediterranean as well as the Caribbean. Steve enjoys
all type of sport but mainly skiing, surfing and golf.
CHIEF STEWARDESS
MELANY VALLI | South African/Swiss
Mel was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. She was
raised on a farm and she has always been an
adventurer at heart. Prior to her career in yachting, she
worked as a flight attendant on Private Jets. She prides
herself on attention to detail and creativity, while
providing the highest level of service. Mel is excited
about welcoming you aboard the beautiful “Grand
Illusion” and hopes to make your experience and
journey with us a memorable one.
ENGINEER
NIGEL WELLINGTON | British
Nigel was born in the UK, South West Devon. He has
been in the yachting industry for +20 years working
through all departments. He stumbled into yachting on
his travels throughout Europe and hasn’t turned back
since. He has a background in precision engineering
and always has a proactive attitude. He has a family in
the Philippians and this is where he calls home. In his
free time Nigel enjoys snowboarding, adventuring
around and water sports.
FIRST MATE
KYLE THOMPSON | South African / Seychellois
Kyle is our ‘Island Boy’; born in the Seychelles and grew
up in a small costal town in Mauritius – he has grown a
deep love for the ocean and boats. He has been in the
yachting industry just under 4 years working on some of
the most prestigious vessels. He aims to hopefully
become a Yacht Captain in the near future. He loves
to fish – it is his true passion, as well as take on any
maintenance tasks; he is a true handy man and
problem solver.
2nd STEWARDESS
YASMIN COOK | South African / British
Yasmin is our bubbly and kind natured 2nd Stewardess.
She was born in England but grew up in South Africa
and has a zest for life. She is very much a people’s
person and excels in providing the best service to
everyone she meets. Prior to yachting she was an
Event Coordinator for high profile events in London,
and took the leap to the boats to carry with her
everything she has learnt. She loves adventure and
the outdoors and is always down to try new things.
BOSUN
RICHARD SEHANNIE | South African
Richard is our hard working deckhand who is
originally from Johannesburg, South Africa. He
studied forensic investigation at the West Virginia
University (WVU) in the USA. During his summer break,
he obtained a job onboard a sailing yacht and
instantly fell in love with the industry. He has a huge
passion for the ocean and everything that comes
with it, he loves swimming, snorkeling and fishing. He
can’t wait to have you onboard.
DECK HAND
MARC LOURENS | South African
Marc was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa.
Marc is an energetic member who prides himself in
his work ethic and precision. Marc has been in the
music industry for a standing of 12 years prior to
Yachting and understands how to entertain guests at
the highest level. Marc enjoys fitness as part of his life
as well as adventure for sports of a physical kind.
Marc is your go to guy for entertainment and
exercise.
CHEF
RENAN IGLESIAS | Brazilian
Renan is a Brazilian chef that specializes in Fusion
cuisine and is a Barbecue Master. He loves creating
meals that offer exceptional moments through taste
and presentation. He started his formal chef career
more than 10 years ago, working in Michelin Star
restaurants and has now made the shift to the
yachting industry and brings with him all his
knowledge and skills to provide the guests with
exceptional experiences. He always has a smile on his
face and a positive attitude.
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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