Bahamas Yacht Charters by Sneed Charters
(800) 581-7130 / (561)459-5316
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses |
| Captain | Nate Riley | USA | 0 | |
| Chef / First Mate | Hilary Gieber | USA | 0 | |
| Number of Crew: 2 | Languages: | |||
Capt. Nate Riley
In 1989, I assisted my parents in their preparation for a transatlantic crossing from California to Scotland. Though I did
not get to make that voyage, it did ignite my passion for sailing and the ocean. I grew up in Michigan around the water
and it always fascinated me. So, when a friend called one January asking, “Can you turn wrenches on a sailboat? There
was no decision to be made and off I went. I began my career as an engineer on a crew of 5 and eventually earned my
200GRT/500 GT USCG license. Since then, I have worked on vessels of varying sizes; 65’ to 245’. From scuba dive
liveaboards to Alaskan Summer adventure boats.
During these past 25 years of being in this industry, there have been so many wonderful adventures. I have participated
in organized shark feeds, visited many Islands (Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Puerto Rico, USVI’s, and BVI’s), explored
uninhabited Islands, crossed the Gulf Stream countless times, and even wrote a #1 Amazon scuba travel guide. Bahamas
Bucket List for Divers: Bimini Edition.
I find enjoyment sharing my passion and knowledge for the ocean and navigation. When on land, I enjoy entering in 5k
races and have also participated in a few marathons. I love to fish when on charter and have recently gotten into surfing.
If there is one thing you can be certain of, I will do everything within the realm of weather and safety to make sure your
vacation is the most memorable one ever. It would be my pleasure to be your Captain.
Chef Hilary Gieber
It was a typical Michigan Winter in the Upper Peninsula (iykyk), January 2011. I was packing in the middle of a blizzard
and was headed to the US Virgin Islands. It would be my first time traveling to The Caribbean. I knew nothing about
sailing, and even less about the ocean and scuba diving. Growing up around the Great Lakes I had great respect for the
water, but no Ocean experience. I had agreed to a job on a 104’ Custom Sailing Vessel that traveled between the Virgin
Islands and the Bahamas, diving everywhere in between (Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos, BVI). Immediately I was in heaven
and twelve years later here I am.
During that time, I soaked up everything I could about sailing, scuba diving, and the ocean world below us. I had found
the lifestyle that suited me during these years, but truly found my home in the Galley. From Florida and The Caribbean all
the way to Alaska I have enjoyed feeding and entertaining guests from all over the world. Using local ingredients along
the way andaAlways taking in the latest food and drink trends. My Fiancé and Captain would call me a “foodie,” but I just
love and get excited about food.
Being a part of guests’ underwater experiences has been a great pleasure of my life. Teaching them about the world
below is another true passion of mine. I now hold my Rescue Diver certification, STCW, and have over ten years of sea
time. On a typical day you can find me up early to exercise and getting my mind right, before starting breakfast and food
prep for the day. I enjoy afternoon snorkeling, getting together with family and friends, playing cards, and anything
involving the outdoors. This life has allowed me to continue traveling and exploring the world we live in, and I hope to
share that and my food with all of you!
Nate Riley
Captain
Hilary Gieber
Chef / First Mate
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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