Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Mark Kurka | American | 0 | |
| 0 | ||||
| Number of Crew: 8 | Languages: | |||
CAPTAIN | Mark Kurka | American
Captain Mark was born in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi but spent many years growing up in Alaska. Prior to yachting, Mark was a commercial fisherman in the cold and rugged state of Alaska. Mark's grit and determination to navigate this harsh yet beautiful environment is a testament to his keen ability to navigate. Captain Mark has worked on several luxury motor yachts including an 80' Hatteras, 108' Broward, and a 115' Crescent. Mark's extensive cruising experience has taken him from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, through the Great Lakes, to the PNW. In his free time, Mark enjoys woodworking and of course, fishing!
CHIEF STEWARDESS | Michelle Kurka | American
Michelle was born in the Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Prior to yachting, Michelle worked in a dental office. Michelle previously worked on a 115' Crescent yacht before joining MISS STEPHANIE, 138' Richmond. When she's not yachting, Michelle enjoys reading and beach combing. Michelle has cruised the Bahamas and the eastern U.S. Her goal is to continue traveling to new places.
CHIEF OFFICER | Cole Helwig | American
Cole is originally from Williamsburg, Virginia. He has worked on a multitude of impressive vessels including a 145' Cheoy Lee, 125' Palmer Johnson, 116' Azumit, and 125' Northcoast. Cole has built two wooden boats from scratch, proving his knowledge and dedication to the industry. In his free time, Cole enjoys fishing and hunting. In the future, he plans on working toward becoming a yacht captain and eventually getting into the sales side of the business. Cole's dedication and enthusiasm for yachting is evident in the work he produces. Cole is thrilled to have you aboard MISS STEPHANIE.
CHIEF ENGINEER | James Carey | American
James Carey is the chief engineer aboard MISS STEPHANIE. His extensive background in yachting ranges from a 112' Westport to a 213' Codecasa. He is originally from Colombus, Ohio but eventually found his way into the world of yachting. Prior to working on yachts, James designed, installed, and maintained large-scale saltwater aquariums. With his understanding of the delicate nature of marine life, James is highly in tune with the sea and everything that comes with it. In his free time, James enjoys flyfishing, specifically for bonefish and tarpon.
2ND STEWARDESS | Claire Ransome| American
Claire is originally from Portsmouth, Virginia and grew up boating on the Elizabeth River. She is known for providing 5-star service to her guests. Claire previously worked on MY Freddy and MY Quantum of Solace. During her free time, Claire enjoys surfing, spelunking, live concerts and working out. Claire hopes to become a Chief Stew in the future. Claire has a natural talent for making guests feel at home on board with her warm smile and outgoing personality.
DECKHAND | Ethan Coetzer | South African
Ethan has long embraced an active lifestyle and has now fully devoted himself to the yachting industry. Originating from South Africa, he commenced his Motocross racing journey at the age of three and gradually pursued it professionally, accumulating numerous race wins over the years. Ethan's recreational pursuits encompass outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, snorkeling, and hunting. He embodies a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for what he does, combined with a fearless attitude towards taking risks. In both his personal and professional pursuits, he has exemplified dependability and a willingness to lend a hand.
DECKHAND | Conner Kurka | American
Conner was born in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. He has worked on several yachts including an 80' Hatteras and a 115' Crescent. Conner has cruised the waters of the Bahamas and Florida Keys. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and guiding. Prior to yachting, Conner was a first responder, working as a firefighter.
CHEF | Naomi Pawlik | American
Originally from the beautiful seaside town of Sag Harbor, NY, Chef Naomi Pawlik understands top-notch cuisine. Upon working in the yachting industry as a chef, Naomi worked as a culinary instructor at the Hayground school in the Hamptons. Her experience working aboard some of the most prestigious yachts in the charter circuit makes her well-equipped to divvy up any meal you so desire. Naomi has worked aboard BROADWATER 182' Feadship, LOON 182' Newcastle, and more. In her free time, Naomi enjoys yoga and spending time biking in the great outdoors. She speaks both English and French and dreams of writing her very own cookbook. Chef Naomi is more than ready to serve you and your guests aboard motor yacht MISS STEPHANIE.
3RD STEWARDESS | Freelance - Brought on for busy charters
Mark Kurka
Captain
Cole Helwig
Chief Officer
James Carey
Chief Engineer
Ethan Coetzer
Deckhand
Conner Kurka
Deckhand
Michelle Kurka
Chief Stewardess
Claire Ransome
2nd Stewardess
Naomi Pawlik
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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