The Boatbookings team spent a week in the BVI sampling menus aboard luxury yachts and is excited to announce the winners for the 2025 culinary competition.

A week spent in the BVI has the Boatbookings team excited about the 2025-2026 charter season. The Florida team spent the week browsing tablescapes, tasting desserts, and sampling gourmet entrees. At the end of the show, a competition was held to see who made a lasting impression. With the overarching theme, “Port of Call,” chefs were challenged to recreate and elevate a dining experience that was reminiscent of a place they were drawn to. After all the votes were counted, the standout chefs emerged. It is our pleasure to announce the winners of the Culinary Competition from the 2025 BVI Yacht Show.

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Table Setting

SIETE MARES

Set by the lovely Sarai Ben Ari, the tablescape was an ode to the Vikings, with earthy colors of pine and terracotta. The setting was meant to mimic the warming landscape of the Nordic regions. Sarai has a passion for the outdoors and loves creating experiences that take guests all around the world. Her adventurous spirit is part of what makes chartering with SIETE MARES a journey in itself.

Cocktails

ANDIAMO

Captain Emilia, or Milla, approaches each charter with an infectious passion for sailing and an unfailing sense of adventure. She seeks enjoyment in all that she does, including work. This helped her win the award for Best Cocktail at the 2025 BVI Yacht Show. Her energy is tangible on charter and allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the island lifestyle.

Appetizer

XANDROS

When it comes to creating menus for clients, Cole Lackey operates on a “from scratch” basis. He took this approach when creating an appetizer for the show. Inspired by Asian cuisine, Cole marinated sushi-grade salmon and paired it with toppings such as seaweed salad and pickled onions. While he enjoys experimenting with Asian dishes, Cole thrives on creating an international menu that meets each guest’s dietary needs and preferences. With the 2026 charter season just beginning, Cole is excited to create unforgettable dining experiences for guests.

Entree

SIETE MARES

Kiki Bouman took on the culinary challenge and won best entree for her dish, Kibbeling, a Dutch snack made of deep-fried fish served with a remoulade. Kiki tapped into her roots in the Netherlands to create the dish and she elevated it with garnishes, including caviar. This type of care and attention is woven into every meal she serves to guests. After a great show, Kiki is excited for an incredible season in the BVI.

Dessert

ENDLESS HORIZON

Growing up cooking alongside her family, Ulrika Fredrikson brings generations of perfected recipes and mastered techniques to the galley, helping her win the award for Best Dessert. She enjoys creating unique experiences for guests by making homemade breads and ice cream, and believes cooking is a way of celebrating local flavors and keeping beloved traditions alive. With special flavors of ice cream and sensory-rich plating details, Ulrika will elevate any meal to create lasting memories.

Following the end of the 2025 BVI Yacht Show, Boatbookings is excited to announce the winner for Best Crew!

The BVI Yacht Show provides an opportunity for the most dedicated crews to show up and stand out. While the islands are enough to lure anyone down to the BVI, it is the crew that ultimately transform the experience from pleasant to truly luxurious. Their hospitality, kind nature, and adventurous spirits create an atmosphere where guests are not only welcome, but feel completely at home.

The Boatbookings team attended the 2025 show to chat with each crew and see firsthand what they bring to a charter. Over the course of three days, we sat down with Captains, Chefs, and First Mates to learn about their inspirational backstories, favorite hidden gems, and best tips for creating an unforgettable charter. Their insight is an essential part of how we hand-select the yachts we recommend to clients, allowing us to propose the boat and crew that best fit their needs.

At the end of the week, there was a competition to see which crew stood out against the rest. The votes are in, and we are thrilled to announce the winner for Best Crew from the 2025 BVI Yacht Show.

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C’EST LA VIE

Hylton, Amy, and Candace make up the outstanding crew on C’EST LA VIE. Their passion for the ocean is infectious and their fun-loving spirit makes each day an adventure. From thrilling free dives and elaborate wine tastings, to exclusive snorkeling spots and lively fishing holes, this crew creates a charter experience that is energetic, welcoming, and completely unforgettable.

Captain Hylton and Chef Amy

Together, Hylton and Amy create a personable and welcoming atmosphere that feels like visiting old friends in their favorite place. Captain Hylton has spent the last 12 years on the water, most recently serving as a behind-the-scenes captain on the last season of Survivor. Now, he and Amy are bringing that same sense of adventure to the BVI for the 2026 charter season. As avid divers, they often encourage clients to take advantage of the Caribbean’s most spectacular dive sites. Additionally, one of their favorite places to takes guests is Little Bay, on Tortola, where a small cliff makes the perfect spot for the brave at heart to jump out of their comfort zones and into the crystalline waters below.

Due to her love of travel and many years of doing so, Chef Amy has picked up recipes from regions such as the South Pacific, Indonesia, South Africa, and the Caribbean, creating a dining experience that takes guests around the world in 3 courses. One of her favorite facets of living and working on the water is easy access to seafood and produce, creating a delicious meal with only the freshest ingredients. With many stories to be told and laughs to be had, Hylton and Amy cannot wait to welcome guests on board.

Candace

With high spirits and a deep desire to create fun experiences for guests, Candace will turn any day into an adventure. Take an afternoon to taste a personalized selection of wines, chosen alongside a local sommelier and expertly paired with cheeses that enhance the flavor profile. She also loves helping guests connect with the water, whether by whipping them around on a tube or leading a lesson on whichever new water sport they want to try. When she’s not on the water, Candace can be found experimenting to create the next best Caribbean cocktail. No matter what she is doing, Candace has a way of making guests feel instantly as ease and welcome on board.

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With a crew as fun and passionate as Hylton, Amy, and Candace, it is easy to see why C’EST LA VIE ranked number 1 for Best Crew in the 2025 BVI Yacht Show. If you are ready to experience a Caribbean holiday with this exceptional crew, contact our experts at Boatbookings to begin drafting your individualized itinerary through the BVI. Once you have chosen your dates, allow our team to plan out every detail, ensuring all you have to do is decide which drink you want to have next.

Boatbookings is excited to announce and celebrate the winners of the 2025 USVI Yacht show!

Each year, members from the Boatbookings team travel to the USVI to attend the Yacht Show. During the week, we explore the layout of each boat, sample the menu, try out the water toys, and get to know the crew personally. This helps us match you with the boat and team that meets all your needs. At the end of the week, there is a competition for participating yachts to showcase their best qualities. There are many categories, including crew, food, and drink. With the end of the 2025 show upon us, it is our pleasure to announce the winners and standout boats from the week.

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2025 USVI Yacht Show Competition Winners

Best in Show Class 40′ to 54′

APRICITY: A charterer’s dream with room for 8 and a full list of amenities, including a customizable menu, a personal espresso machine, and an abundance of water toys. Enjoy the foredeck made for lounging in the sun, or cool off on the shaded flybridge with panoramic views of the Caribbean.

Best in Show Class 55′ to 59′

WHISKEY SUNSET: With 4 cabins that host 8 guests, WHISKEY SUNSET promises smooth sailing and space for the whole group to enjoy. The expansive foredeck has room for everyone to lie out and count the stars while anchored in a calm bay for the night.

Best in Show Class 60′ and Over

REVERIE: With a stylish exterior and room for 8 guests, REVERIE will easily make its way to the top of your charter bucket list. The interior has an aesthetic that can only be described as warm and inviting, making it instantly feel like a home away from home.

Best Crew in Show

From REVERIE: Doyle Van Horn, Christina Merianos, Jetske Van Rensburg.

A fun-loving crew whose passion for sailing is infectious. Captain Doyle has been sailing the Caribbean for over 20 years, meaning he has a steady hand and intimate knowledge of the best spots in the region.

Mixology Competition – Tito’s Handmade Vodka

From SUN DAZE: Caydon Harris

Beginning his chartering journey as a guest, Captain Caydon now looks forward to showing guests why he loves sailing so much that he made it his career. Over some of the best drinks in the Caribbean, he will share his favorite stories and even better anchorages.

Mixology Competition – Cruzan Rum

From HOURGLASS: Adriana Vega

Captain Adriana is thrilled to share the adventure of chartering with guests. She delights in creating island-inspired drinks and lasting memories.

Culinary Competition

From KISMET: Jade Lovell

Jade believes in telling a story with every meal she creates. With elegant presentation and a symphony of flavors, each meal is a celebration.

After an exciting week down in the British Virgin Islands, Boatbookings is thrilled to share the winners for Best in Category from the 2025 BVI Yacht Show!

With passionate crews, impeccable dining, and some of the best views in the Caribbean, the 2026 and 2027 BVI charter season has officially begun. To mark the occasion, Boatbookings‘ Florida team traveled to Tortola to attend the 2025 BVI Yacht Show. Over the course of three days, we thoroughly explored each vessel, sampled menus, tasted craft cocktails, and personally got to know the crew members.

The last night of the show is a celebration of the hard work that went into creating a unique charter experience for each guest. Awards are given out by category to recognize the top boats for what makes them exceptional. After an inspirational week, it is with great excitement that we get to share the 2025 winners for Best in Category.

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Best Crewed Catamaran up to 50′

PURPOSE

PURPOSE is a Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 with 4 cabins fit for 8 guests. With a spacious foredeck and plush tanning beds, guests can enjoy the way space is maximized for their comfort. Captain Florian, Chef Michael, and first mate Sisi make up this amazing crew. Their friendly nature and easy dynamic create a warm atmosphere where guests can luxuriate in island life with their favorite drink in hand. While Michael will tailor the menu to accommodate any guest, his Ethiopian background inspires many of his dishes, creating an all-around comforting and delicious meal.

Weekly charters for 2026 range from $21,900-$30,900

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Best Crewed Catamaran 51′-59′

STELLA MARE

The brand-new 2025 Lagoon 55, STELLA MARE, entered the scene with 4 cabins for 8 guests. The addition of a blow-up movie screen and stereo gives a new definition to movie nights. Captain Ariel and First Mate Matea will work hard to ensure you experience all the BVI has to offer. Having grown up in the BVI, Ariel will give you the locals’ tour of the islands, sharing his favorite spots and stories about why he loves them so much.

Weekly charters for 2026 range from $37,400-$40,000

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Best Crewed Catamaran 60’+

AEOLUS 77

Named after the God of the Winds, the 2024 Lagoon Seventy7, AEOLUS 77, and her 4 dedicated crew members are committed to creating outstanding memories. With 4 cabins fit for 8 guests, including a master suite with a private balcony, she promises to wrap you in luxury while you drift effortlessly downwind. As Captain, Keith leads his team and guests on an adventure through the BVI. A certified dive instructor, he enjoys sharing his passion for the underwater world with everyone, no matter their age or level of experience. While you explore the vibrant corals and diverse marine life, Chef Casey will prepare delectable meals presented with elegance and served with a story.

Weekly charters for 2026 range from $84,000-$90,000

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Best Crewed Power Catamaran

SIETE MARES

Answer the call of the Seven Seas aboard SIETE MARES, a 2025 Lagoon Seventy8 that hosts 8 guests in 4 cabins. Her expansive living spaces instantly make all feel welcome, and the airy color palette creates a calm, relaxing atmosphere. Leading a team of 4 is Captain Bastian, whose passion for being on the water is infectious. Adventure awaits anyone who charters with him.

Weekly charters for 2026 range from $70,000-$80,000