Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Blake Sellers | American | 0 | |
| American | 0 | |||
| Number of Crew: 5 | Languages: English | |||
Captain - Blake Sellers
Nationality: American
Languages: English
Born in Myrtle Beach, SC, where he lived on the Intracoastal Waterway, Blake’s dream was always to become a yacht captain. He spent time on his family’s runabout boats, wakeboard boats, and jet skis learning how everything operated. He was always on the water every chance he got and would wakeboard, kneeboard, tube, water ski, wake surf, and jet ski together with his two older brothers. Starting out as a mate for TowBoatUS he started in the yachting industry delivering vessels in order to gain his Sea Time and Captain’s License. Blake worked his way up from a 54ft Motor yacht, to a 76ft Lazzara, to a 124’ Trinity, and now to the 114ft Hargrave Brandi Wine.
Captain Blake currently holds his 200 Ton USCG Masters Near Coastal/500 Ton ITC, STCW trained, and Auxiliary Towing Endorsement. He looks forward to having you aboard Brandi Wine where you will be greeted with one of the best crews in the industry ensuring you a safe and wonderful vacation. Captain Blake’s motto for the yachting industry is “always chase your dreams, because if you can dream it, you can do it”
Mate - Matthew Edwards
Nationality: American
Languages: English
Matt was born and raised in Virginia Beach. From there he grew up on boats and was always in the water. When he wasn’t in the water he was playing football. After High school he realized his passion was for the open ocean and pursued a career on yachts. He was a deckhand for 2 years on a private yacht where he traveled up and down US Atlantic coast from Rhode Island to Grand Bahama. Soon after he discovered the action-packed adventures of charter yachts. He’s completed 3 years on Brandi Wine and is looking forward to many more.
Rotational Chef -Christoff Van Zyl
Nationality: South African
Languages: English
With a rich culinary heritage and a passion for global cuisine, Chef Christoff infuses every dish aboard BRANDI-WINE with creativity, flavor and comfort. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, he came of age in London, UK before making South Florida his home. His tri-continental training and experience spans top-tier restaurants and private yachts across the USA, Bahamas, Caribbean, and Mediterranean. Christoff is known not only for his vibrant personality but also for his unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. His menus are thoughtfully designed to showcase fresh, local ingredients and accommodate a wide range of dietary needs. From refined seafood dinners to relaxed beachside BBQs, Christoff ensures every meal is a memorable culinary experience.
Chief Stewardess - KelliAnn St. Hilaire
Nationality: American
Languages: English
With over a decade of hospitality experience and a flair for creating unforgettable guest experiences, KelliAnn brings energy, creativity, and precision to every charter adventure. Whether orchestrating elegant theme nights, managing top-tier service, or ensuring a yacht’s interior sparkles, she approaches every task with adaptability and excellence. Having journeyed through the Bahamas, Caribbean, and beyond, she’s handled it all: coordinating lavish 43rd anniversary celebrations, hosting soirées for 30+ guests, and crafting Instagram-worthy floral arrangements. From morning espressos to sunset cocktails, her attention to detail makes every moment onboard feel like magic. When KelliAnn is not crafting stellar guest experiences, you might find her enjoying the beautiful waters in Staniel Cay or trying new things and continuously growing new skills.
Deckhand - Obie Hanna
Nationality: Bahamian
Languages: English
Obie is from Nassau, Bahamas, and has a wife and 3 daughters at home. He started his yachting career as a diver and exterior dayworker cleaning many vessels throughout the marinas in Nassau whether they be passing through or staying for trips. He made a name for himself in the yachting industry in Nassau doing what he loves. He is now based out Nassau, Bahamas and Fort Lauderdale, FL and is the full time deckhand on Brandi Wine. He is starting his 1st full season on Brandi Wine, and having his local knowledge of his home country and his skill set of diving and spear fishing on board is a special treat for our guests. He has been in yachting for 3 years now. Some of his favorite hobbies and activities are diving, spear fishing, and most importantly is spending quality time with his wife and kids
Blake Sellars
Captain
Matthew Edwards
Mate
Christoff Van Zyl
Chef
Obie Hanna
Deckhand
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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