We just returned from an incredible seven-day bareboat charter in the BVI, and the experience was top-tier from start to finish.
​A huge thank you to Maggie Privat, who was instrumental in helping us set up this charter. Her expertise and attention to detail during the planning phase made the entire process seamless. When we arrived, the crew at MarineMax took over with the same level of professionalism, ensuring the handoff was smooth and we were ready to hit the water with confidence.
​As for the boat, the Aquila 545 (53-foot power cat) was a dream. It’s an absolute beast of a platform for a group of six—spacious, stable, and incredibly comfortable for island hopping. The flybridge quickly became our favorite spot for morning coffee and sunset drinks.
​Logistically, we used Bobby’s Provisioning, and I can’t recommend them enough. Everything was accurately packed and waiting for us, which saved us hours of hassle and let us get out to our first mooring much faster.
​If you’re looking for a luxury bareboat experience in the islands, this is the winning combination. We’re already looking forward to the next one!
Mollie Stradley
-
February 25, 2026
Our week aboard the Painted Pelican was nothing short of extraordinary, easily a top 3 trip of my life, and I’ve been fortunate to travel on some pretty amazing adventures.
Captain Joe was the absolute best. So pleasant, incredibly knowledgeable, and impressively well-traveled. He seemed to know exactly where to go and exactly when to get there for the most breathtaking views. Every anchorage, every island, every moment felt perfectly timed and thoughtfully curated. You could completely relax knowing you were in the hands of someone so experienced and genuinely kind.
And then there’s Chef Ariq… wow. Beyond talented. Beyond humble. We didn’t even realize the extent of his accolades until after we stepped off the boat, which makes his quiet confidence even more impressive. Every single meal was outstanding, truly better than any restaurant we visited during the trip. If Ariq is your chef, take my advice: eat as many meals on board as possible. Each dish was creative, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious.
The combination of Captain Joe’s expertise and Ariq’s culinary magic made for an unforgettable week. The Painted Pelican is something special and the crew is what makes it exceptional!
Already dreaming of our next boat trip.
Joan Dorazio-Forte
-
March 08, 2026
Our group of 8 just wrapped up an unforgettable six night adventure with our incredible Captain Joe and Chef, Ariq, on a 54 motor cat. From the moment we stepped aboard, everything felt easy and relaxed. Captain Joe and Ariq made our whole experience. Joe wasn’t just the captain of the vessel, keeping the boat in order and his passengers safe, he doubled as an enthusiastic cruise director, always suggesting great spots and somehow making our last-minute requests happen without missing a beat. Ariq absolutely spoiled us preparing delicious meals, and snacks throughout the trip that kept us happy and well fueled.
Island hopping was effortless. One minute we were snorkeling crystal clear water, the next we were cruising to another stunning cove or beach bar. If it meant that Captain Joe started the engines before 6 AM to get us to a new location at Dawn, he did!
The vibe was exactly what we hoped for: Laid-back, adventurous and full of laughs. Morning coffee with a sea breeze, afternoon swims, sunset cruises, and evenings swapping stories under the stars. 10/10 would sail (well…..power) again. Cheers!
Michele Owens
-
February 04, 2026
Marine Max Vacations for the BVI is the best. They were courteous, efficient, and thorough throughout the entire planning of this trip. Tammy, at Marine Max provided was there to ensure we had the most enjoyable experience. Please reach out to her for the trip of a lifetime. The boat was exceptionally clean with the standard amenities provided such as towels, kitchen cutlery, etc. Our Captain, Dunbar was amazing as well. We will definitely request him for our next adventure.
Brian Cohen
-
December 21, 2025
Maggie's communication leading up to the trip was excellent. The 54 Power Cat was amazing - beautifully maintained, comfortable, spacious and smooth! What really made this trip unforgettable was Captain Dani and Chef Mel. The care, expertise and service they provided us was beyond anything we imagined. MarineMax is lucky to have them as part of their team and we could not imagine doing another crewed charter without them. Mel's culinary skills far exceeded any meal that one could have in the islands. Captain Dani had our itinerary planned perfectly and made sure everything was exactly as we had wished. Thank you for helping us experience the magic of the BVIs and we look forward to returning someday soon!!
We just returned from an incredible seven-day bareboat charter in the BVI, and the experience was top-tier from start to finish. ​A huge thank you to Maggie Privat, who was instrumental in helping us set up this charter. Her expertise and attention to detail during the planning phase made the entire process seamless. When we arrived, the crew at MarineMax took over with the same level of professionalism, ensuring the handoff was smooth and we were ready to hit the water with confidence. ​As for the boat, the Aquila 545 (53-foot power cat) was a dream. It’s an absolute beast of a platform for a group of six—spacious, stable, and incredibly comfortable for island hopping. The flybridge quickly became our favorite spot for morning coffee and sunset drinks. ​Logistically, we used Bobby’s Provisioning, and I can’t recommend them enough. Everything was accurately packed and waiting for us, which saved us hours of hassle and let us get out to our first mooring much faster. ​If you’re looking for a luxury bareboat experience in the islands, this is the winning combination. We’re already looking forward to the next one!
Our week aboard the Painted Pelican was nothing short of extraordinary, easily a top 3 trip of my life, and I’ve been fortunate to travel on some pretty amazing adventures. Captain Joe was the absolute best. So pleasant, incredibly knowledgeable, and impressively well-traveled. He seemed to know exactly where to go and exactly when to get there for the most breathtaking views. Every anchorage, every island, every moment felt perfectly timed and thoughtfully curated. You could completely relax knowing you were in the hands of someone so experienced and genuinely kind. And then there’s Chef Ariq… wow. Beyond talented. Beyond humble. We didn’t even realize the extent of his accolades until after we stepped off the boat, which makes his quiet confidence even more impressive. Every single meal was outstanding, truly better than any restaurant we visited during the trip. If Ariq is your chef, take my advice: eat as many meals on board as possible. Each dish was creative, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. The combination of Captain Joe’s expertise and Ariq’s culinary magic made for an unforgettable week. The Painted Pelican is something special and the crew is what makes it exceptional! Already dreaming of our next boat trip.
Our group of 8 just wrapped up an unforgettable six night adventure with our incredible Captain Joe and Chef, Ariq, on a 54 motor cat. From the moment we stepped aboard, everything felt easy and relaxed. Captain Joe and Ariq made our whole experience. Joe wasn’t just the captain of the vessel, keeping the boat in order and his passengers safe, he doubled as an enthusiastic cruise director, always suggesting great spots and somehow making our last-minute requests happen without missing a beat. Ariq absolutely spoiled us preparing delicious meals, and snacks throughout the trip that kept us happy and well fueled. Island hopping was effortless. One minute we were snorkeling crystal clear water, the next we were cruising to another stunning cove or beach bar. If it meant that Captain Joe started the engines before 6 AM to get us to a new location at Dawn, he did! The vibe was exactly what we hoped for: Laid-back, adventurous and full of laughs. Morning coffee with a sea breeze, afternoon swims, sunset cruises, and evenings swapping stories under the stars. 10/10 would sail (well…..power) again. Cheers!
Marine Max Vacations for the BVI is the best. They were courteous, efficient, and thorough throughout the entire planning of this trip. Tammy, at Marine Max provided was there to ensure we had the most enjoyable experience. Please reach out to her for the trip of a lifetime. The boat was exceptionally clean with the standard amenities provided such as towels, kitchen cutlery, etc. Our Captain, Dunbar was amazing as well. We will definitely request him for our next adventure.
Maggie's communication leading up to the trip was excellent. The 54 Power Cat was amazing - beautifully maintained, comfortable, spacious and smooth! What really made this trip unforgettable was Captain Dani and Chef Mel. The care, expertise and service they provided us was beyond anything we imagined. MarineMax is lucky to have them as part of their team and we could not imagine doing another crewed charter without them. Mel's culinary skills far exceeded any meal that one could have in the islands. Captain Dani had our itinerary planned perfectly and made sure everything was exactly as we had wished. Thank you for helping us experience the magic of the BVIs and we look forward to returning someday soon!!