Painted Pelican
Painted Pelican Yacht Charter
Set sail aboard Painted Pelican, a luxurious 54-foot Aquila Power Catamaran, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the British Virgin Islands. Whether you’re seeking adventure beneath the waves or pure relaxation under the Caribbean sun, this exquisite yacht offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable getaway.
Luxury Accommodations and Spacious Design
Painted Pelican is designed for ultimate comfort, featuring four spacious guest cabins, each with a private en-suite bathroom and individual climate control. The master suite boasts a king-size bed, while the additional cabins offer plush queen beds, ensuring every guest enjoys a restful retreat. A fifth cabin is reserved for the crew, allowing for seamless service throughout your voyage.
The galley and salon feature an open-concept layout, perfect for socializing with family and friends. Modern furnishings, a flat-screen TV, and barstool seating create a welcoming space to gather, while Wi-Fi connectivity ensures you can stay in touch with the outside world—if you choose to!
Outdoor Living and Relaxation
The expansive flybridge offers a panoramic vantage point, allowing you to take in the stunning island views while lounging in complete comfort. Whether drying off after a swim, sipping a Caribbean cocktail, or indulging in a gourmet meal prepared on the electric grill, this elevated space provides the perfect ambiance for unwinding.
For those who love to soak up the sun, built-in lounging pads and floating mats invite you to relax and enjoy the warm island breeze. As evening falls, gather on deck for a front-row seat to a breathtaking Caribbean sunset, followed by a world-class dining experience crafted by your personal chef, who is happy to accommodate any dietary preferences.
A World of Adventure Awaits
If adventure is what you seek, Painted Pelican is your gateway to the crystal-clear waters of the British Virgin Islands. Ask the captain to take you to secluded snorkeling spots, where you’ll feel as if you’ve entered an underwater paradise, surrounded by vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Paddle through the gentle waves, explore hidden coves, or simply enjoy the rhythmic sound of the ocean as you relax on deck.
Book Your Dream Getaway Today
With an electric winch-style dinghy lift platform, Bluetooth-enabled sound system, and state-of-the-art amenities, Painted Pelican delivers the perfect mix of adventure and luxury. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply escaping the everyday, this yacht promises an unparalleled experience on the water. Secure your charter today and embark on the trip of a lifetime!
Ready for your trip of a lifetime? Painted Pelican is waiting for you on clear blue seas in the beautiful British Virgin Islands.
The exquisite 54-foot Aquila Power Catamaran offers 4 spacious cabins each with private head and AC control for your guests to enjoy. 5th Cabin for crew.
As you navigate the turquoise blue waters, ask the captain to bring you to one of our secluded snorkeling spots. You will feel like you are swimming in a tropical aquarium as you experience rare and colorful sea life all around you. After your swim, head up to the huge flybridge to dry off and get an overhead view of the coral reefs that surround the island.
If relaxing is more your style, lay back on the built-in deck lounging pads or one of our floating mats. The warm island waters will not disappoint, and neither will our delicious Caribbean cocktails!
Watch the sunset as you enjoy an extraordinary meal prepared by your chef, who will happily accommodate any guests’ dietary requirements. Check out our sample menu for examples of some of the delicious meals Painted Pelican has to offer.
When the sun has set and you are ready to rest, you will feel at home in our spacious and comfortable cabins. Each cabin is equipped with storage space for your belongings and a queen bed. (King in master) The galley and salon have a contemporary configuration and an open-concept space perfect for enjoying time with friends and family. A flat screen TV is placed on the back wall for viewing pleasure in and out of the salon at the barstool seating. Wi-Fi is also included should you choose to stay connected on your dream vacation.
Other amenities include: lounging pads for sunbathing, electric grill located on the flybridge, electric winch-style dinghy lift platform, blue tooth capabilities, and sound system.
WIFI Included
| Accommodations | |
|---|---|
| Cabins: | 4 |
| Queen: | 3 |
| Single Cabins: | 1 |
| Showers: | - |
| Electric Heads: | - |
| Engine Details | |
|---|---|
| Engines: 2X D6 480hp Volvo Penta Inboard V-Drive Diesel Engines | |
| Fuel Consumption: | 581 |
| Cruising Speed: | 17 |
| Max Speed: | 22US Gall/Hr |
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Type: | Cat |
| Beam: | 25 Feet |
| Draft: | 5 Feet |
| Pax: | 8 |
| YearBuilt: | 2024 |
| Builder: | Aquila |
| JetSkis: | No |
| Flag: | USCG |
| Engines: | Engines: 2X D6 480hp Volvo Penta Inboard V-Drive Diesel Engines |
| Jacuzzi: | No |
| A/C: | Full |
| Locations | |
|---|---|
| Winter Area: | Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI) |
| Summer Area: | Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI) |
| Pick Up Locations | |
|---|---|
| Pref. Pick-up: | - |
| Other Pick-up: | - |
| Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Salon Tv/VCR: | Yes |
| Salon Stereo: | Yes |
| Sat Tv: | - |
| Camcorder: | No |
| Books: | No |
| Board Games: | No |
| Deck Shower: | Yes |
| Water Maker: | yes |
| Special Diets: | Yes |
| Kosher: | Inq |
| BBQ: | Yes |
| Minimum Age: | - |
| Inverter: | Yes |
| Voltages: | - |
| Water Maker: | yes |
| Ice Maker: | Yes |
| Sailing Instructions: | - |
| Internet Access: | Onboard WIFI |
| Hairdryers: | No |
| Guests Smokes: | No |
| Crew Smokes: | No |
| Pets Aboard: | No |
| Hammock: | No |
| Water Sports | |
|---|---|
| Dinghy size: | Yes |
| Dinghy hp: | - |
| Water Skis Adult: | No |
| Water Skis Kids: | No |
| Jet Skis: | No |
| Kneeboard: | No |
| Windsurfer: | No |
| Snorkel Gear: | No |
| Tube: | No |
| Scurfer: | No |
| Wake Board: | No |
| Kayaks 1 Pax: | No |
| Kayaks (2 Pax): | No |
| Floating Mats: | No |
| Swim Platform: | No |
| Boarding Ladder (Loc/Type): | No |
| Sailing Dinghy: | - |
| Beach Games: | No |
| Fishing Gear: | No |
| Gear Type: | - |
| Rods: | - |
Introducing the power team aboard the Painted Pelican!
Captain Joe brings years of experience navigating catamarans through some of the world’s most beautiful waters. Chef Mel and Chef Casey curate exceptional vibrant menus that blend Caribbean flavors with global influences, always using local, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or just adventurous with your palate, the team can accommodate any dietary need. Together, they’ll deliver the vacation of a lifetime for your family and friends.
Joseph Paolone: Captain
Joseph hails from the sailing community of the Niagara-on-the Lake in Ontario, Canada. He began boating as a baby on the shores of Lake Ontario, sparking a lifelong love for adventure and discovery on the open water. While studying history at Brock University, Joseph spent many summers working as a sailing coach at neighboring yacht clubs. It was during these years that he realized his passion for boating and his dream of a life at sea could be fulfilled by moving to the Caribbean.
For nearly a decade, Joseph has worked as a charter captain around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Pacific Ocean. He has completed multiple deliveries and was part of a Pacific crossing on a 32-foot sailboat in the spring and summer of 2024.
Joseph is excited to take you to the most incredible spots in the Caribbean on your charter. He is more than happy to teach guests anything they want to know about boating while sharing his passion for the sea. Joseph also enjoys staying active and can show you his favorite trails and snorkeling spots if that interests you. To top off an exciting day of activities, he would be delighted to make you your favorite cocktail as you relax and enjoy an amazing sunset. Whatever type of charter you fancy, Joseph will make it happen.
Casey Wichman: Chef/Stew/Mate (Please see Chef Schedule for your charter)
Casey is an Estonian-American yacht chef who splits her time between Italy and the Caribbean. Trained at culinary school in Italy, she combines Mediterranean influences with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create vibrant, beautifully presented dishes. Inspired by travel, wellness, and seasonal flavors, Casey loves crafting memorable dining experiences—from relaxed lunches in the sun to elegant dinners under the stars. Her warm, approachable style and passion for great food help guests feel at home from the very first meal.
Melissa Fulmor: Chef/Stew/Matex(Please see Chef Schedule for your charter)
Melissa was born in San Diego, California but if you ask her, raised in a kitchen. Coming from a family of chefs and restaurateurs, the culinary industry is second nature. She quickly found a love of travel and has been to over 35 countries and lived in several along the way.
In 2017, Melissa found a way to combine her two great loves: cooking and traveling as she sailed through the stunning waters of Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and the BVI's. Melissa thrives on giving her guests not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience, because in her world, the best memories are made around the dinner table.
*** There will be one Chef per Charter. Please see schedule for Chef Casey and Chef Mel when booking your charter. ***
CHEF SCHEDULE
CHEF CASEY October 15th 2026 - January 5th 2027
CHEF MEL January 6th 2027 - March 17th 2027
CHEF CASEY March 18th 2017 - May 29th 2027
CHEF MEL May 30th 2027 - August 5th 2027
Chef Casey Sample Menu
Breakfast
Served with fresh fruit platter, freshly brewed coffee, a selection of fine teas, and fruit juices
- Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon, spinach & hollandaise
- Lemon ricotta pancakes with berry compote & maple syrup, served with breakfast sausage
- Avocado toast on homemade sourdough with poached eggs, crispy bacon, pickled red onion, feta & chili flakes
- Mediterranean omelette with prosciutto, tomato, spinach, goat cheese & herbs
- Greek yogurt with homemade granola, fresh berries & local honey
- Bagel Board: Served with bacon, smoked salmon, tomatoes, capers, onions, and whipped chive cream cheese
Lunch
- Grilled Greek chicken souvlaki bowls with lemon rice, cucumber, tomato, feta & tzatziki
- Blackened mahi-mahi tacos with mango salsa & lime crema
- Shrimp Caesar salad with garlic focaccia
- Homemade pesto pasta with grilled vegetables & parmesan
- Tuna Poke Bowl: Fresh tuna served over a flavorful poke bowl with classic accompaniments
- Honey mustard marinated chicken thighs with cucumber, peach & mint salad
- Thai Noodle Salad served with satay chicken and shrimp lettuce wraps
Canapes
- Tuna tartare on cucumber rounds
- Whipped feta with roasted peppers & crostini
- Coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce
- Mini crab cakes with lemon aioli
- Burrata & tomato bruschetta
- Charcuterie & artisan cheese selection
- Truffle fries with parmesan & herbs
Dinner
- Seared snapper with lemon beurre blanc, roasted asparagus & baby potatoes
- Beef tenderloin with chimichurri, garlic mash & broccolini
- Herb-crusted rack of lamb with dauphinoise potatoes & glazed carrots
- Parmesan-crusted chicken with creamy mushroom risotto
- Lobster linguine with garlic, white wine & fresh herbs
- Slow-braised beef short ribs with creamy polenta & roasted vegetables
- Handmade wild mushroom ravioli with sage butter & parmesan
Desserts
- Vanilla panna cotta with berry compote
- Warm chocolate brownie with vanilla bean ice cream
- Classic tiramisu
- Lemon tart with whipped mascarpone
- Sticky toffee pudding with caramel sauce
- Crème Brûlée
- Affogato with homemade biscotti
**Selections change daily to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients
Chef Mel Sample Menu
Breakfast
Served with fresh fruit platter, freshly brewed coffee, a selection of fine teas, and fruit juices
- Lighter selections of cereals, yogurt parfaits, smoothies, pastries, and overnight oats are also available.
- Zucchini corn fritters topped with an egg, bacon, and an avocado lime sauce
- Bagel Bar with everything bagels, cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers and red onion
- Eggs Benedict with thick ham on a toasted English muffin
- Huevos Rancheros crispy tortillas with black beans, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, and fried eggs
- Shakshuka Style Baked Eggs with feta and toasty sourdough
- Loaded Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs on sourdough with red pepper flakes, feta, and lime
- Quinoa Power Breakfast Bowls with sweet potatoes, local greens, and fried eggs
- French Toast with honey drizzled mascarpone and berries served with crispy bacon
Lunch
- Sesame Crusted Tuna Bowls with a ginger-soy dressing and crispy wontons
- Mediterranean Salad Bowl, Greek Meatballs, Marinated cucumber and tomato, pickled onions, hummus, and a homemade tzatziki sauce
- Beer Battered Mahi Tacos with pineapple salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, and cotija cheese
- Lump Crab Cakes on a quinoa and arugula salad with remoulade sauce
- Asian Sticky Beef Noodle Salad with sauteed veggies
- Pulled Pork Burgers on a homemade brioche bun and slaw
- California Salad with crispy quinoa, shredded chicken, charred corn, black beans, cotija cheese, and a chipotle honey vinaigrette
Appetizers
- Chefs Choice Charcuterie Board
- Bacon Wrapped Dates stuffed with Goat Cheese
- Pork and Vegetable Gyoza with Soy Dipping Sauce Fresh Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
- Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Bites
- Honey Baked Brie with Crispy Toasts and Green Apples
- Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice
Dinner
- Ribeye Steaks with roasted potatoes, asparagus, and fresh chimichurri sauce
- Blackened Mahi Mahi served with coconut rice, mango salsa, and curry aioli
- Herb Crusted Pork with Brussel Sprouts and Hasselback potatoes on a Butternut Squash puree
- Seared Scallops on a parmesan risotto with basil oil and parmesan tuile
- Asian Style Sea Bass on smashed potatoes and sesame spinach
- Linguine Alla Vongole with Mussels and Clams in a White Wine sauce
- Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with a garlic potato mash and roasted vegetables
Desserts
- Vanilla Bourbon Creme Brulee
- Coconut Key Lime Pie with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Salted Dark Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
- Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruits
- Poached Pears with Caramel Sauce
- Chocolate Mousse with Creme Anglaise and fresh berries
2) The Captain and first mate Joe and Julia were just wonderful
3) The food was better on the boat than at the top restaurants ( which were great as well and suggested by the crew)
4) The spots we anchored were great and the crew took us by dingy to all places we wanted to go
Awesome
Also, we so appreciate you going back to Willy T’s to represent Underwater Construction Corp. with the sticker! Hope to see it with you guys in the future!
We’ve done a very similar trip before without a crew, and after this experience, there’s no chance we’d ever do that again. Having a crew turns the entire trip into an actual vacation instead of a job.
Captain Joe was fantastic from day one. He was professional, easygoing, and incredibly knowledgeable. He knew where to go, when to go, and always seemed one step ahead—whether it was weather, anchor spots, timing, or just making sure everything ran smoothly. We felt totally relaxed knowing he had everything handled, while still keeping the trip flexible and tailored to what we wanted.
Ariq, our chef, absolutely blew us away. The food was consistently excellent—fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. Every meal felt special, and the variety throughout the week was impressive. It truly felt like having a private chef onboard rather than “boat food.” He was also great to be around and always happy to accommodate requests.
I also want to call out Danielle, who was instrumental in helping us book the trip. She answered all of our questions upfront, set clear expectations, and made the entire booking process easy and stress-free. Going into a trip like this with everything explained ahead of time made a huge difference.
The Aquila 545 itself was clean, comfortable, and well laid out for a longer charter. Plenty of space to relax, great cabins, and everything worked exactly as it should. Combined with a great crew, it was the perfect setup.
MarineMax did a great job overall, but what really made this trip unforgettable was the people—Joe, Ariq, and Danielle. They elevated the entire experience and made the week effortless and memorable.
If you’re on the fence about going crewed, do it. It’s absolutely worth it, and we’re already talking about when we can book our next one.
We had travel complications heading out and he was even checking on us after we left the boat. It was similar with Ariq - our girls can be particular and every meal was spot on (have never heard so many superlatives from the teenagers - they are wrecked now coming home from all of the spoiling 😀). The food was really delicious - I have a heavy couple weeks of working out to try to shed the weight! It was similar with Ariq and Joe - not just exceptional quality and service but delivered in a friendly and welcoming way.
The boat was nice and easily accommodated the two families and we were very comfortable - it was clear the boat was well taken care of.
Our experience with Marine Max and this crew was truly excellent - we would never hesitate to sail with them again. It was a top notch vacation and the service made it truly special.
| Season | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | 4 PAX | 5 PAX | 6 PAX | 7 PAX | 8 PAX | 9 PAX | 10 PAX | 11 PAX | 12 PAX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer 2026 | $39,942 | $40,541 | $41,139 | $41,738 | $42,336 | $42,935 | $43,533 | ||||
| Holiday 2026/2027 | $45,297 | $45,896 | $46,494 | $47,093 | $47,691 | $48,290 | $48,888 | ||||
| Winter 2027 | $42,210 | $42,809 | $43,407 | $44,006 | $44,604 | $45,203 | $45,801 | ||||
| Summer 2027 | $39,942 | $40,541 | $41,139 | $41,738 | $42,336 | $42,935 | $43,533 |
Unless otherwise specified-Caribbean Standard All-Inclusive Charters include the following:
- Standard check-in/check-out of 12pm
- Light daily housekeeping
- Breakfast, lunch, canapés/afternoon tea, dinner and snacks
- Standard ship’s bar: vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, tequila, triple sec, mixers, local beers, table wine and water/coffee/tea and soft drinks
- Stereo with MP3/iPhone connection with indoor/outdoor speakers; 3G/4G Wi-Fi access point
- Snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, kayaks, dingy tender with outboard motors
- Water toys such as floating islands, and air mattresses
- Separate bathroom and living quarters for crew
- Reputable and licensed crew who have local knowledge of waters and are able to adjust menus based on guest’s preferences and dietary restrictions
- Operating expenses including: use of air conditioning, fuel, water, sailing permits/taxes, local taxes and crew wages
What Is Not Included in Standard All-Inclusive Charters:
- Gratuity for crew. Gratuity is at guest discretion and is typically between 15-20%
- Meals and beverages at restaurants and bars
- Rendezvous diving, ASA sailing certification courses and any other offshore excursions
- Premium wines and spirits
All rates are based on 7 nights. Call for shorter periods.
NEW YEARS 2026/2027 8 PAX $48,888
Includes: Private 54' power catamaran. One Master Cabin with King Bed, Three Double occupancy staterooms with private bathroom and shower. All meals and snacks. All beverages, beer and wine. Fuel, A/C, TV and stereo. Snorkeling gear, stand up paddle board, dinghy. Mooring ball fees, cruising taxes and yacht insurance.
CYBA contract
X
Available
X
Booked
X
Hold
X
Unavailable
- : Cat
- : 25 Feet
- : 5 Feet
- : 8
- : 2024
- : Aquila
- : 17
- : 22
- : No
- : No
- : Yacht offers Rendezvous Diving only
- : Joseph Paolone
- : USCG
- : Engines: 2X D6 480hp Volvo Penta Inboard V-Drive Diesel Engines
| Accommodations | |
|---|---|
| Cabins: | 4 |
| Queen: | 3 |
| Single Cabins: | 1 |
| Showers: | - |
| Wash Basins: | - |
| Heads: | - |
| Electric Heads: | - |
| Engine Details | |
|---|---|
| Engines: 2X D6 480hp Volvo Penta Inboard V-Drive Diesel Engines | |
| Fuel Consumption: | 581 |
| Cruising Speed: | 17 |
| Max Speed: | 22US Gall/Hr |
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Refit: | - |
| Helipad: | No |
| Jacuzzi: | No |
| A/C: | Full |
| Locations | |
|---|---|
| Winter Area: | Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI) |
| Summer Area: | Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI) |
| Pick Up Locations | |
|---|---|
| Pref. Pick-up: | - |
| Other Pick-up: | - |
| Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Salon Tv/VCR: | Yes |
| Salon Stereo: | Yes |
| Sat Tv: | - |
| # of Videos: | - |
| # DVDs/Movies: | No |
| # CD's: | Yes |
| Camcorder: | No |
| Books: | No |
| Board Games: | No |
| Sun Awning: | Yes |
| Deck Shower: | Yes |
| Bimini: | No |
| Water Maker: | yes |
| Special Diets: | Yes |
| Kosher: | Inq |
| BBQ: | Yes |
| # Dine In: | Yes |
| Minimum Age: | - |
| Generator: | 21 KW |
| Inverter: | Yes |
| Voltages: | - |
| Water Maker: | yes |
| Water Cap: | 238 |
| Ice Maker: | Yes |
| Sailing Instructions: | - |
| Internet Access: | Onboard WIFI |
| Gay Charters: | Inq |
| Nude: | No |
| Hairdryers: | No |
| # Port Hatches: | No |
| Guests Smokes: | No |
| Crew Smokes: | No |
| Pets Aboard: | No |
| Pet Type: | - |
| Guest Pets: | No |
| Children Ok: | Yes |
| Hammock: | No |
| Windscoops: | No |
| Water Sports | |
|---|---|
| Dinghy size: | Yes |
| Dinghy hp: | - |
| Dinghy # pax: | - |
| Water Skis Adult: | No |
| Water Skis Kids: | No |
| Jet Skis: | No |
| Wave Runners: | No |
| Kneeboard: | No |
| Windsurfer: | No |
| Snorkel Gear: | No |
| Tube: | No |
| Scurfer: | No |
| Wake Board: | No |
| Kayaks 1 Pax: | No |
| Kayaks (2 Pax): | No |
| Floating Mats: | No |
| Swim Platform: | No |
| Boarding Ladder (Loc/Type): | No |
| Sailing Dinghy: | - |
| Beach Games: | No |
| Fishing Gear: | No |
| Gear Type: | - |
| Rods: | - |
Introducing the power team aboard the Painted Pelican!
Captain Joe brings years of experience navigating catamarans through some of the world’s most beautiful waters. Chef Mel and Chef Casey curate exceptional vibrant menus that blend Caribbean flavors with global influences, always using local, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or just adventurous with your palate, the team can accommodate any dietary need. Together, they’ll deliver the vacation of a lifetime for your family and friends.
Joseph Paolone: Captain
Joseph hails from the sailing community of the Niagara-on-the Lake in Ontario, Canada. He began boating as a baby on the shores of Lake Ontario, sparking a lifelong love for adventure and discovery on the open water. While studying history at Brock University, Joseph spent many summers working as a sailing coach at neighboring yacht clubs. It was during these years that he realized his passion for boating and his dream of a life at sea could be fulfilled by moving to the Caribbean.
For nearly a decade, Joseph has worked as a charter captain around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Pacific Ocean. He has completed multiple deliveries and was part of a Pacific crossing on a 32-foot sailboat in the spring and summer of 2024.
Joseph is excited to take you to the most incredible spots in the Caribbean on your charter. He is more than happy to teach guests anything they want to know about boating while sharing his passion for the sea. Joseph also enjoys staying active and can show you his favorite trails and snorkeling spots if that interests you. To top off an exciting day of activities, he would be delighted to make you your favorite cocktail as you relax and enjoy an amazing sunset. Whatever type of charter you fancy, Joseph will make it happen.
Casey Wichman: Chef/Stew/Mate (Please see Chef Schedule for your charter)
Casey is an Estonian-American yacht chef who splits her time between Italy and the Caribbean. Trained at culinary school in Italy, she combines Mediterranean influences with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create vibrant, beautifully presented dishes. Inspired by travel, wellness, and seasonal flavors, Casey loves crafting memorable dining experiences—from relaxed lunches in the sun to elegant dinners under the stars. Her warm, approachable style and passion for great food help guests feel at home from the very first meal.
Melissa Fulmor: Chef/Stew/Matex(Please see Chef Schedule for your charter)
Melissa was born in San Diego, California but if you ask her, raised in a kitchen. Coming from a family of chefs and restaurateurs, the culinary industry is second nature. She quickly found a love of travel and has been to over 35 countries and lived in several along the way.
In 2017, Melissa found a way to combine her two great loves: cooking and traveling as she sailed through the stunning waters of Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and the BVI's. Melissa thrives on giving her guests not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience, because in her world, the best memories are made around the dinner table.
*** There will be one Chef per Charter. Please see schedule for Chef Casey and Chef Mel when booking your charter. ***
CHEF SCHEDULE
CHEF CASEY October 15th 2026 - January 5th 2027
CHEF MEL January 6th 2027 - March 17th 2027
CHEF CASEY March 18th 2017 - May 29th 2027
CHEF MEL May 30th 2027 - August 5th 2027
Chef Casey Sample Menu
Breakfast
Served with fresh fruit platter, freshly brewed coffee, a selection of fine teas, and fruit juices
- Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon, spinach & hollandaise
- Lemon ricotta pancakes with berry compote & maple syrup, served with breakfast sausage
- Avocado toast on homemade sourdough with poached eggs, crispy bacon, pickled red onion, feta & chili flakes
- Mediterranean omelette with prosciutto, tomato, spinach, goat cheese & herbs
- Greek yogurt with homemade granola, fresh berries & local honey
- Bagel Board: Served with bacon, smoked salmon, tomatoes, capers, onions, and whipped chive cream cheese
Lunch
- Grilled Greek chicken souvlaki bowls with lemon rice, cucumber, tomato, feta & tzatziki
- Blackened mahi-mahi tacos with mango salsa & lime crema
- Shrimp Caesar salad with garlic focaccia
- Homemade pesto pasta with grilled vegetables & parmesan
- Tuna Poke Bowl: Fresh tuna served over a flavorful poke bowl with classic accompaniments
- Honey mustard marinated chicken thighs with cucumber, peach & mint salad
- Thai Noodle Salad served with satay chicken and shrimp lettuce wraps
Canapes
- Tuna tartare on cucumber rounds
- Whipped feta with roasted peppers & crostini
- Coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce
- Mini crab cakes with lemon aioli
- Burrata & tomato bruschetta
- Charcuterie & artisan cheese selection
- Truffle fries with parmesan & herbs
Dinner
- Seared snapper with lemon beurre blanc, roasted asparagus & baby potatoes
- Beef tenderloin with chimichurri, garlic mash & broccolini
- Herb-crusted rack of lamb with dauphinoise potatoes & glazed carrots
- Parmesan-crusted chicken with creamy mushroom risotto
- Lobster linguine with garlic, white wine & fresh herbs
- Slow-braised beef short ribs with creamy polenta & roasted vegetables
- Handmade wild mushroom ravioli with sage butter & parmesan
Desserts
- Vanilla panna cotta with berry compote
- Warm chocolate brownie with vanilla bean ice cream
- Classic tiramisu
- Lemon tart with whipped mascarpone
- Sticky toffee pudding with caramel sauce
- Crème Brûlée
- Affogato with homemade biscotti
**Selections change daily to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients
Chef Mel Sample Menu
Breakfast
Served with fresh fruit platter, freshly brewed coffee, a selection of fine teas, and fruit juices
- Lighter selections of cereals, yogurt parfaits, smoothies, pastries, and overnight oats are also available.
- Zucchini corn fritters topped with an egg, bacon, and an avocado lime sauce
- Bagel Bar with everything bagels, cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers and red onion
- Eggs Benedict with thick ham on a toasted English muffin
- Huevos Rancheros crispy tortillas with black beans, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, and fried eggs
- Shakshuka Style Baked Eggs with feta and toasty sourdough
- Loaded Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs on sourdough with red pepper flakes, feta, and lime
- Quinoa Power Breakfast Bowls with sweet potatoes, local greens, and fried eggs
- French Toast with honey drizzled mascarpone and berries served with crispy bacon
Lunch
- Sesame Crusted Tuna Bowls with a ginger-soy dressing and crispy wontons
- Mediterranean Salad Bowl, Greek Meatballs, Marinated cucumber and tomato, pickled onions, hummus, and a homemade tzatziki sauce
- Beer Battered Mahi Tacos with pineapple salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, and cotija cheese
- Lump Crab Cakes on a quinoa and arugula salad with remoulade sauce
- Asian Sticky Beef Noodle Salad with sauteed veggies
- Pulled Pork Burgers on a homemade brioche bun and slaw
- California Salad with crispy quinoa, shredded chicken, charred corn, black beans, cotija cheese, and a chipotle honey vinaigrette
Appetizers
- Chefs Choice Charcuterie Board
- Bacon Wrapped Dates stuffed with Goat Cheese
- Pork and Vegetable Gyoza with Soy Dipping Sauce Fresh Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
- Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Bites
- Honey Baked Brie with Crispy Toasts and Green Apples
- Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice
Dinner
- Ribeye Steaks with roasted potatoes, asparagus, and fresh chimichurri sauce
- Blackened Mahi Mahi served with coconut rice, mango salsa, and curry aioli
- Herb Crusted Pork with Brussel Sprouts and Hasselback potatoes on a Butternut Squash puree
- Seared Scallops on a parmesan risotto with basil oil and parmesan tuile
- Asian Style Sea Bass on smashed potatoes and sesame spinach
- Linguine Alla Vongole with Mussels and Clams in a White Wine sauce
- Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with a garlic potato mash and roasted vegetables
Desserts
- Vanilla Bourbon Creme Brulee
- Coconut Key Lime Pie with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Salted Dark Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
- Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruits
- Poached Pears with Caramel Sauce
- Chocolate Mousse with Creme Anglaise and fresh berries
2) The Captain and first mate Joe and Julia were just wonderful
3) The food was better on the boat than at the top restaurants ( which were great as well and suggested by the crew)
4) The spots we anchored were great and the crew took us by dingy to all places we wanted to go
Awesome
Also, we so appreciate you going back to Willy T’s to represent Underwater Construction Corp. with the sticker! Hope to see it with you guys in the future!
We’ve done a very similar trip before without a crew, and after this experience, there’s no chance we’d ever do that again. Having a crew turns the entire trip into an actual vacation instead of a job.
Captain Joe was fantastic from day one. He was professional, easygoing, and incredibly knowledgeable. He knew where to go, when to go, and always seemed one step ahead—whether it was weather, anchor spots, timing, or just making sure everything ran smoothly. We felt totally relaxed knowing he had everything handled, while still keeping the trip flexible and tailored to what we wanted.
Ariq, our chef, absolutely blew us away. The food was consistently excellent—fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. Every meal felt special, and the variety throughout the week was impressive. It truly felt like having a private chef onboard rather than “boat food.” He was also great to be around and always happy to accommodate requests.
I also want to call out Danielle, who was instrumental in helping us book the trip. She answered all of our questions upfront, set clear expectations, and made the entire booking process easy and stress-free. Going into a trip like this with everything explained ahead of time made a huge difference.
The Aquila 545 itself was clean, comfortable, and well laid out for a longer charter. Plenty of space to relax, great cabins, and everything worked exactly as it should. Combined with a great crew, it was the perfect setup.
MarineMax did a great job overall, but what really made this trip unforgettable was the people—Joe, Ariq, and Danielle. They elevated the entire experience and made the week effortless and memorable.
If you’re on the fence about going crewed, do it. It’s absolutely worth it, and we’re already talking about when we can book our next one.
We had travel complications heading out and he was even checking on us after we left the boat. It was similar with Ariq - our girls can be particular and every meal was spot on (have never heard so many superlatives from the teenagers - they are wrecked now coming home from all of the spoiling 😀). The food was really delicious - I have a heavy couple weeks of working out to try to shed the weight! It was similar with Ariq and Joe - not just exceptional quality and service but delivered in a friendly and welcoming way.
The boat was nice and easily accommodated the two families and we were very comfortable - it was clear the boat was well taken care of.
Our experience with Marine Max and this crew was truly excellent - we would never hesitate to sail with them again. It was a top notch vacation and the service made it truly special.
| Season | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | 4 PAX | 5 PAX | 6 PAX | 7 PAX | 8 PAX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer 2026 | $39,942 | $40,541 | $41,139 | $41,738 | $42,336 | $42,935 | $43,533 |
| Holiday 2026/2027 | $45,297 | $45,896 | $46,494 | $47,093 | $47,691 | $48,290 | $48,888 |
| Winter 2027 | $42,210 | $42,809 | $43,407 | $44,006 | $44,604 | $45,203 | $45,801 |
| Summer 2027 | $39,942 | $40,541 | $41,139 | $41,738 | $42,336 | $42,935 | $43,533 |
Unless otherwise specified-Caribbean Standard All-Inclusive Charters include the following:
- Standard check-in/check-out of 12pm
- Light daily housekeeping
- Breakfast, lunch, canapés/afternoon tea, dinner and snacks
- Standard ship’s bar: vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, tequila, triple sec, mixers, local beers, table wine and water/coffee/tea and soft drinks
- Stereo with MP3/iPhone connection with indoor/outdoor speakers; 3G/4G Wi-Fi access point
- Snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, kayaks, dingy tender with outboard motors
- Water toys such as floating islands, and air mattresses
- Separate bathroom and living quarters for crew
- Reputable and licensed crew who have local knowledge of waters and are able to adjust menus based on guest’s preferences and dietary restrictions
- Operating expenses including: use of air conditioning, fuel, water, sailing permits/taxes, local taxes and crew wages
What Is Not Included in Standard All-Inclusive Charters:
- Gratuity for crew. Gratuity is at guest discretion and is typically between 15-20%
- Meals and beverages at restaurants and bars
- Rendezvous diving, ASA sailing certification courses and any other offshore excursions
- Premium wines and spirits
All rates are based on 7 nights. Call for shorter periods.
NEW YEARS 2026/2027 8 PAX $48,888
Includes: Private 54' power catamaran. One Master Cabin with King Bed, Three Double occupancy staterooms with private bathroom and shower. All meals and snacks. All beverages, beer and wine. Fuel, A/C, TV and stereo. Snorkeling gear, stand up paddle board, dinghy. Mooring ball fees, cruising taxes and yacht insurance.
CYBA contract
