Captain Ariel Thrasher 

Born and raised in the British Virgin Islands, my connection to the ocean started early with sailing camps and surfing. In my teenage years, I had the unique opportunity to move to Thailand, where I completed my secondary education and gained a broader perspective on the world.

At 18, I returned home to the BVI and began my journey in the marine industry, taking on a variety of roles aboard local vessels and building hands-on experience along the way. Over time, I developed a strong foundation in seamanship, guest service, and yacht operations.

Now, as a captain, I take great pride in sharing the beauty of the BVI with guests guiding them through the islands and helping create unforgettable experiences on the water. 



Chef Ariq Flax-Clarke
 

I grew up on the sunlit shores of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, where the aromas from my grandmother’s kitchen mingled with the salt air of the sea. Inspired by her gift for storytelling through food, I learned early that cuisine is more than sustenance—it’s a connection, a celebration, and a way to bring people together. Childhood days spent fishing in the turquoise waters of the BVI laid the foundation for a culinary identity deeply rooted in fresh, local ingredients.

I began working in kitchens as a teenager, building a foundation that has grown into over 12 years of culinary experience. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts and Food Management and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Johnson & Wales University in Miami, Florida, allowing me to combine my creativity in the kitchen with strong business and management skills.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked in fine dining, private events, and prestigious culinary competitions. I’ve proudly represented the BVI with Team BVI at the Taste of the Caribbean Competition, earning multiple medals, and recently achieved second place in the 2024 VIPCA USVI Charter Yacht Show Culinary Competition.

I’ve also had the opportunity to represent the BVI on prominent stages including the South Beach Food and Wine Festival, Citi Taste of Tennis in California and Miami, the Annapolis Boat Show, the BVI Food Fest, and a Caribbean-themed event at the James Beard House in New York.

My passion for understanding where food comes from has led me back to some of my roots. I’ve rekindled my love for fishing, explored beekeeping and honey production, and even experimented with mead-making during the pandemic. Looking for greater creative freedom and a more personal connection with my guests, I eventually transitioned from traditional kitchens into the luxury yacht charter industry.

For the past three seasons, I’ve served as chef aboard Barefoot Bliss, a 54-foot Bali Catamaran, where I’ve had the opportunity to create vibrant menus that combine Caribbean flavors with influences from around the world.

When I’m not in the galley, you’ll usually find me fishing, snorkeling, or exploring hidden coves. I love incorporating my fresh catch into memorable onboard meals and sharing good food, stories, and plenty of laughs with guests. My easygoing nature, attention to detail, and genuine passion for hospitality allow me to create personalized dining experiences that make each charter truly unforgettable.


Stewardess Sasha Santana

I was raised in the British Virgin Islands and developed a genuine love for the ocean from an early age. I began sailing at six through annual sailing school and spent much of my childhood on my family’s 40-foot sailboat, building a lifelong connection to the water and the outdoors.

My professional background spans nursing, bar management, high-end hospitality, client service, and yoga instruction. These experiences have taught me to be adaptable, attentive to detail, calm under pressure, and genuinely service-oriented. I have also worked with discerning private clients under strict NDAs, giving me a strong appreciation for discretion, confidentiality, and maintaining a consistently high professional standard.

I am now transitioning into yachting as a way to combine my passion for sailing and the outdoors with my love of hospitality and working closely with people. I am excited to continue developing my maritime skills and experience, with the long-term goal of pursuing my Captain’s license.

Outside of work, I lead an active, outdoors-focused lifestyle and enjoy sailing, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, running, yoga, and fitness. Growing up in the BVI has given me a natural appreciation for island life, the ocean, and the adventure that comes with being on the water.

 

Ariel Thrasher

Captain

Virgin Islander

Languages: English

Maritime Qualifications

 

IYT Master of Yachts 200 ton

PADI Dive Master 

AEC 1

STCW 

ENG 1

Ariq Flax-Clarke

Chef

Virgin Islander

Languages: English

Martime Qualifications

 

STCW

MBA – Master of Business Administration, 2020

Bachelor of Culinary Arts, 2019

 

3x Taste of the Caribbean Junior Chef Silver Medalist 

2nd Place winner at the 2024 VIPCA USVI Charter Yacht Show Culinary Competition

Sasha Santana

First Mate/Stew

Virgin Islander

Languages: English

Marine Qualifications 

 

STCW 

RYA Powerboat Level 2 

First Aid & CPR/AED Level 3 

BLS

IOSH

Managing Safely 

Food & Health Safety

Bartending Certification