Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Brian Scales | South African | 0 | |
| 0 | ||||
| Number of Crew: 5 | Languages: | |||
Brian Scales - Captain
Certificates/Education: Yachtmaster 200 ton, Unlimited Radar Watch Keeper, Power Boat Instructor, Jet Ski Instructor
Languages: English, Afrikaans
Captain Brian Matthew Scales is from George, South Africa, and has more than a decade of experience working in the yachting industry. He spent 6 years on board a 200’ world cruising charter yacht before making his way to smaller boats. Prior to yachting, Captain Brian was a professional animal trainer, specializing in big cats. He hand-raised the first white tigers in Africa and was the head animal trainer to the animal park in South Africa, specializing in husbandry training for all animals. With a strong belief in being a hands-on captain, Captain Brian is involved in all aspects of the yacht. From handling guest relations and yacht management to interior service and engineering/deck maintenance, all while providing five-star service at all times. Having been in the tourism industry for so long, ensuring guest and crew satisfaction is a natural trait of his. Captain Brian wants to make experiences as memorable as possible by tailoring each trip to the individuals on board. He likes to give guests as many options as possible so they have control over their holiday. His career has taken him through the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mediterranean, East Coast of the United States, and Scandinavia.
Captain Brian loves the outdoors, and when not at sea, he enjoys surfing, bodyboarding, snowboarding, fishing, camping and golfing.
Jessica Seward | Chief Stew
Languages Spoken: English
Jess was born and raised in Florida, with British and Canadian roots. She went to Wesleyan University where she studied Film Studies and Creative Writing. After graduating college, Jess moved across the world to work for a start up in China making it her first and last office job. She then spent five years traveling and working in hospitality around the world, including Southeast Asia, Australia and Latin America. She met several yachties along the way and was intrigued by the lifestyle. Ironically, yachting brought her back to Florida and closer to home than she’d been in almost ten years. She’s been in the industry for over four years now and enjoys being able to provide a wonderful experience for the guests. Jess enjoys tossing a frisbee on the beach, sailing and diving in her free time.
Crystal-Anne Purves
Education/Certifications: STCW
Languages: English
Crystal grew up in Plettenberg Bay, on the shore of the ocean. She began her yachting career in Barcelona a few years ago after wanting to take on a new challenge. Prior to yachting, Crystal was a qualified beauty therapist working in the beauty industry. Crystal plays an integral role in the upkeeping of the interior. She ensures cleanliness is maintained at a high level providing a comfortable experience for all guests. 5-star service is atop her list of priorities and will go above and beyond to ensure every guest need is met before it is even thought of. Crystal wants all guests who come on board BEACHFRONT to leave with a book full of memories to last a lifetime. When she is not on the water, you can find Crystal hiking, taking the next path towards adventure.
Joe Richard - Chef
Education/Certifications: Bachelors Degree of History – University of Florida, Culinary Institute of Bologna, Italy
Languages: English, Conversational Spanish and Italian
Chef Joe Richard grew up on the coast of East Texas, hunting and fishing with his older brother and father, before moving to North Florida. He started working for restaurants at the age of 19, beginning as a dishwasher. As a teenager, Joe began spending his summers working at a small winery in Tuscany which led him to develop a lifelong passion for great food and wine. Joe was working as a chef in Miami Beach before he turned to yachting and hasn’t looked back since. He specializes in Mediterranean fare but also loves the cuisines of both North and South America. Joe will go above and beyond to ensure every guest dietary requirement is fulfilled and every palate is satisfied.
When Joe is not busy providing amazing food, he enjoys going to a good jazz club in New Orleans, wandering through food markets in foreign countries, wine tastings, and collecting Japanese chef knives. One day, he aspires to open his own restaurant. Chef Joe wants every guest on board BEACHFRONT to feel as if they’re staying with an old friend who offers unforgettable hospitality.
Sarah Vaughan - Rotational Chef / Chief Stew
Languages Spoken: English
Sarah Vaughan was born in Papua, New Guinea and grew up in a small country town north of Hobart, Tasmania. Her culinary style is heavily influenced by her hometown, renowned for its fresh produce and seafood, cool climate wines and whiskey. Her approach to cooking focuses on local, in-season ingredients that capture the flavors of a region. Before starting her career in yachting, she worked in some of Hobart’s finest restaurants and cafes, including the Islington Hotel. She was also chef for the Governor of Tasmania, creating meals for high profile guests, such as China’s President, Xi Jinping. Her love of the sea and experience providing high-level service brought her to the world of yachting. Sarah is a very active person who enjoys sports on both water and land, like hiking, wakeboarding, snorkeling, fishing and team sports. She also enjoys the arts, especially concerts and festivals. While Tasmania is close to her heart for its rugged landscapes, Sarah’s travels have taken her to Bariloche, Patagonia, Cape Town, Nazare and Mallorca. Now, she is very excited to explore the Bahamas as BEACHFRONT chef.
Spiros Capetanakis – Rotational Captain / Mate
Certificates/Education: Master 350
Languages: English
Captain Spiros also known as “Kappi” grew up in Knysna, South Africa. Prior to entering yachting, he spent time in a variety of industries which included jobs as a carpenter, bartender, swimming coach, personal trainer, and restaurant manager.
Since being in the industry, Captain Spiros has worked on board 110’ LE REVE, 100’ SYRENE, and 80’ BAGLIETTO. Maintaining a calm and confident approach to any given situation is his specialty. He works closely with charter clients and owners to ensure the best all-around experience for everyone involved. Captain Spiros will go above and beyond to provide a luxury experience that cannot be duplicated.
Captain carries with him a strong passion for marine conservation and in his spare time you can find him fishing. He wants every guest who steps on board 108’ BEACHFRONT to leave feeling like the crew have become longtime friends in which they have created some of the greatest memories together.
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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