Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
My family recently concluded a week long trip with Matt and Tmana in the St. Thomas/St. John waters. There is a definite consensus among the six of us that this was a vacation of a lifetime for us and that was due to the fact that Matt and Tmana went above and beyond for our family. Matt is a highly qualified, personable and skilled captain that made us feel welcome and safe from the minute we stepped on board. Tmana is lovely in every way and so talented in the kitchen as well as with her first-mate duties. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with them, so much so that we now consider them friends and sincerely hope to see them again in the future.
Matt skillfully demonstrated his keen ability to find us the best locations that would offer activities he knew we would love. He is extremely knowledgeable about sailing but also a joy to talk to about most any subject. He has a very sophisticated knowledge-base on a wide range of topics which made him easy and enjoyable to talk to during our time onboard.
Tmana is a magician with food. I can say without hesitation that whether you want simpler foods or finer foods, Tmana will find a way to please your palate during your time with her. She has such a warm personality and always seemed one step ahead of our needs as guests. Not only were her meals prepared with perfection, the flavor combinations and wine pairings were just spectacular. We never went hungry and were always so excited to see what she was able to whip up in the galley everyday!
The two of them together have a formidable working relationship and you can see from day one that they are in sync with each other as they take care of everything from sailing to serving meals to launching the tender. It was impressive to watch them work together on sailing days especially.
I would not hesitate for a second to recommend Matt and Tmana as a crew on any yacht for guests of any caliber. I can say without a doubt that they would make anyone’s trip memorable, safe, personalized and more than anything, fun!
Sincerely,
Katie Alves
The past week has been an amazing experience.
You did an amazing job of taking care of our family on this special trip - 50 year anniversary, 5 year anniversary, 40th birthday and a 15 year anniversary celebration all on one trip was a lot to ask, our expectations exceeded in every way.
Thank you for the care and hospitality shared with us. We are very much looking forward to the next trip we can take with you.
Wishing you full sails and smooth waters.
Best Wishes,
Mike & Karen
I just wanted to let you know what a terrific job Matt and Tmana did as our crew on Laysan last week! Given that they had never sailed the vessel before, they did a fantastic job working through all the unknowns while keeping us super happy. This is the kind of crew that every boat should have – engaged, experienced, fun-loving and knowledgeable about the stops we made.
Laysan was a lovely catamaran. Matt and Tmana made the cruise the best way to spend our wedding anniversary! They are now good friends and will be the crew we ask for on our next trip!
-Deb Ersland
Kind Regards,
Kurt Rademacher
Matt and Tmana were both knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs and it showed in everything they did. They were attentive to all our needs but not overbearing. They were respectful of our privacy and knew when to engage and when to stay in the background.
Matt chose an itinerary for us based on our preference sheet and he was spot on. We spent our days relaxing in quiet coves, snorkeling and enjoying the clear, blue waters while Tmana spoiled us with her excellent culinary skills at breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour snack. The dining experience Tmana delivered exceeded most fine dining restaurants. The evenings were spent enjoying wonderful dinners and drinks followed by board games, which Matt and Tmana occasionally joined in on.
Matt accompanied us on our snorkel adventures and showed his knowledge of the marine life by pointing out all the sights along the way. He was always concerned for our safety but let us explore at our own pace.
There were days when the winds cooperated and we went sailing. Not from one destination to the next but true “let’s take advantage of these winds” sailing. These were exceptional experiences encompassing both fun and learning from true experts. Tmana emerged from the galley with her first mate hat on and showed her skill at operating the jib, sail and all the controls of this large vessel.
This trip was in our top 5 best vacations ever because of these 2 amazing people. As we are planning our next trip, we will be reaching out to Matt and Tmana first, to be with us as our crew or charter the vessel they are associated with.
John and Gail Zvijac
Suzanne H Michaels & Barton Hills Mortgage
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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