Rates Per Week
Crew Profiles
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Licenses | Languages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | Gavin Van Der Berg | South African | 1986 | RYA Yachtmaster Ocean & BVI Boatmaster | English, Spanish, Italian, French |
| Crew | Marie Perez | Italian | STCW, Ashburton Chefs Academy |
Meet the crew!
Captain Gavin
Gavin’s journey into the world of sailing began at a tender age, when he was first introduced to boats at just five years old. Growing up, he was inspired by his parents’ ambitious dreams of circumnavigating the globe, which ignited a lifelong passion for the sea. This early exposure to maritime life shaped his aspirations, leading him to pursue formal qualifications and become a certified sailing instructor. Gavin embraced the challenges of sailing passionately, equipping himself with the skills necessary to guide others through the intricate art of navigating the waters.
Free diving stands as Gavin’s greatest passion, yet his love for water extends to a multitude of pursuits, including surfing, fishing, and exploring various water sports, all of which have enriched his connection to the ocean. For the past ten years, Gavin has proudly served as a charter captain in the British Virgin Islands, where his intimate knowledge of the waters is unmatched. His professional accolades include holding an RYA/MCA Yacht Master Ocean Qualification, a BVI Boatmaster certification, and a SAMSA Yacht Master Commercial, underscoring his dedication and expertise in sailing. Adding to his already diverse skill set, Gavin embarked on a six-month comprehensive chef course, receiving a City & Guild’s diploma.
Gavin’s sailing career is marked by numerous significant accomplishments, including voyages across both the North and South Atlantic, circumnavigating the Baltic Sea, and enjoying ten seasons in the Caribbean. His adventures have taken him up the East Coast of Africa, from Durban to Kenya, with memorable stops in Madagascar, as well as an exhilarating surf and sail trip in Indonesia. Gavin also spent a season working as a fishing charter captain and guide in Mozambique. Each experience has not only broadened his horizons but also deepened his appreciation for the diverse cultures and ecosystems he encounters on the waters.
Gavin recently returned to chartering in the British Virgin Islands after spending cherished moments living and sailing aboard his own vessel with his wife and two young daughters. This experience allowed him to immerse himself in the vibrant Caribbean lifestyle, creating unforgettable memories with his family. Now, as he looks forward to welcoming guests onboard M/Y Philotimo, Gavin is eager to share his passion for the sea and provide everyone with the vacation of a lifetime, turning dreams into reality amidst the stunning backdrop of the ocean.
Chef Marie Perez
Marie, originally from the Dominican Republic, embarked on a transformative journey to Italy as a teenager, driven by her passion for languages. She worked as an interpreter and in web marketing while cooking part-time in restaurants, where she found her true calling. With an unwavering determination to pursue her passion, Marie bravely transitioned her career in 2010 to become a yacht chef, sailing through the stunning waters of the US and British Virgin Islands.
Marie graduated with merit from Ashburton Chefs Academy in Devon, England, and now specializes in Italian, European, North American, and Spanish Caribbean cuisines, known for her unique presentations and exceptional service.
Her creative dishes, called “Marie’s Creations,” reflect her passion for fine dining. What truly sets Marie apart is her ability to connect with her guests through her passion for exceptional service. Fluency in English, Italian, Spanish, and French allows her to cater to a diverse clientele, ensuring a warm, personalized experience for everyone at her table. Marie has a passion for client service and loves to deliver those special touches that bring smiles to all her guests. You will be asking for her amazing recipes when you reluctantly leave Marie’s kitchen.
Captain
Gavin
Chef
Marie
Specifications
Accommodations
Additional Rate Information
Additional Rate Information
Charter Rates Per Week
| Rate Period | Terms | 2 Guests | 3 Guests | 4 Guests | 5 Guests | 6 Guests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter 2024 to 2025 | Inclusive | $37,000 | $37,000 | $37,000 | $37,500 | $38,000 |
| Summer 2025 | Inclusive | $37,000 | $37,000 | $37,000 | $37,500 | $38,000 |
| Winter 2025 to 2026 | Inclusive | $37,000 | $37,000 | $37,000 | $37,500 | $38,000 |
Additional Rate Information
Location Details
Summer Area: Caribbean Windwards, Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI)
Winter Area: Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI)
Location Details: Available in Grenadines – September to October
Available in BVI ONLY – November to August
Meet the crew!
Captain Gavin
Gavin’s journey into the world of sailing began at a tender age, when he was first introduced to boats at just five years old. Growing up, he was inspired by his parents’ ambitious dreams of circumnavigating the globe, which ignited a lifelong passion for the sea. This early exposure to maritime life shaped his aspirations, leading him to pursue formal qualifications and become a certified sailing instructor. Gavin embraced the challenges of sailing passionately, equipping himself with the skills necessary to guide others through the intricate art of navigating the waters.
Free diving stands as Gavin’s greatest passion, yet his love for water extends to a multitude of pursuits, including surfing, fishing, and exploring various water sports, all of which have enriched his connection to the ocean. For the past ten years, Gavin has proudly served as a charter captain in the British Virgin Islands, where his intimate knowledge of the waters is unmatched. His professional accolades include holding an RYA/MCA Yacht Master Ocean Qualification, a BVI Boatmaster certification, and a SAMSA Yacht Master Commercial, underscoring his dedication and expertise in sailing. Adding to his already diverse skill set, Gavin embarked on a six-month comprehensive chef course, receiving a City & Guild’s diploma.
Gavin’s sailing career is marked by numerous significant accomplishments, including voyages across both the North and South Atlantic, circumnavigating the Baltic Sea, and enjoying ten seasons in the Caribbean. His adventures have taken him up the East Coast of Africa, from Durban to Kenya, with memorable stops in Madagascar, as well as an exhilarating surf and sail trip in Indonesia. Gavin also spent a season working as a fishing charter captain and guide in Mozambique. Each experience has not only broadened his horizons but also deepened his appreciation for the diverse cultures and ecosystems he encounters on the waters.
Gavin recently returned to chartering in the British Virgin Islands after spending cherished moments living and sailing aboard his own vessel with his wife and two young daughters. This experience allowed him to immerse himself in the vibrant Caribbean lifestyle, creating unforgettable memories with his family. Now, as he looks forward to welcoming guests onboard M/Y Philotimo, Gavin is eager to share his passion for the sea and provide everyone with the vacation of a lifetime, turning dreams into reality amidst the stunning backdrop of the ocean.
Chef Marie Perez
Marie, originally from the Dominican Republic, embarked on a transformative journey to Italy as a teenager, driven by her passion for languages. She worked as an interpreter and in web marketing while cooking part-time in restaurants, where she found her true calling. With an unwavering determination to pursue her passion, Marie bravely transitioned her career in 2010 to become a yacht chef, sailing through the stunning waters of the US and British Virgin Islands.
Marie graduated with merit from Ashburton Chefs Academy in Devon, England, and now specializes in Italian, European, North American, and Spanish Caribbean cuisines, known for her unique presentations and exceptional service.
Her creative dishes, called “Marie’s Creations,” reflect her passion for fine dining. What truly sets Marie apart is her ability to connect with her guests through her passion for exceptional service. Fluency in English, Italian, Spanish, and French allows her to cater to a diverse clientele, ensuring a warm, personalized experience for everyone at her table. Marie has a passion for client service and loves to deliver those special touches that bring smiles to all her guests. You will be asking for her amazing recipes when you reluctantly leave Marie’s kitchen.
| Title | Name | Nation | Born | Languages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | Gavin Van Der Berg | South African | 1986 | English, Spanish, Italian, French |
| Crew | Marie Perez | Italian |
Captain
Gavin
Chef
Marie
Accomodation
Amenities
Electronics
General
Leisure
Other Specs
Philotimo can accommodate up to 6 guests in 3 cabins; 1 master queen suite and 2 queen cabins, all cabins offer ensuite facilities.
Chef Marie Perez
Sample Menu
Breakfast – Served daily with a Fresh Fruit Platter, Yogurt, Smoothies, Tea, Coffee & Juice
Breakfast Bowl – Scrambled Egg, Sausage, Bacon, Avocado, Charred Tomato, Mushrooms
Fluffy Ham, Cheese and Veggie Omelette
Blueberry Pancake with Breakfast Sausages drizzled with Maple Syrup
Classic Eggs Benedict with Hot Buttered English Muffins, Poached Eggs & Hollandaise Sauce
Caribbean French Toast with Bacon
Smoked Salmon on a toasted Bagel topped with Cream Cheese and Capers
Lunch
Blackened Chicken Ceasar Salad with Anchovies & Shaved Parmesan
Amigos Fish Tacos, Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, Sour Cream
Pulled Pork Wraps, Romanian Potatoes Salad, Green Salad
Beef Pithivier with Fennel, Courgettes and Apple Salad
Seared Steak Salad
Feta and Sun Blush Tomato Quiche and Fresh Garden Salad
Seared Tuna Linguine with Pesto and Green Olives
Appetizers
Charcuterie board – Assorted Cheese & Meats, Crudites, Pickles
Buffalo Chicken Wings with a Creamy Ranch
Tequila-Spiked Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado
Assorted Flatbreads
Hummus Dip served with Toasted Pita Wedges
Starters
Roasted Butternut Squash and Ginger Soup served with Boat Made Dinner Rolls
Caprese Salad and Arugula with Balsamic Glaze and Parmesan
Tuna Tartare
Feta and Melon Salad with Citrus Dressing
Grilled Zucchini Cannoli with Goat Cheese and Sundried Tomato, Italian Pesto
Shrimp Cocktail served on a bed of green leaves
Roasted Peppers and Tomato Soup
Main course
Sea Bass with Fennel, Capers and Lemon Juice served with Glazed Potatoes and Herb Oil
Pork Loin Cauliflower Purée, Caramelized Pan-Fried Scallops with Curry Foam and Curry Oil
Moroccan Spiced Chicken, Fig and Pistachio Boudin with Butternut Squash Green Beans and Chicken Jus
Red Curry Shrimp, Bamboo, Potatoes and Udon Noodles
Pasta Arrabbiata with Arugula and Garlic Bread
Spiced Cod Fish in a Bisque with Courgette, Asparagus, Mussels and Saffron Oil
Fillet Mignon Cooked to Order, Shallot Tart Tatin, Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Madeira Jus
Desserts
Indulgent Chocolate Brownie with Ice Cream and Fresh Fruit
Cheesecake served with a Raspberry Coulis
Fried Rum Bananas and Whipped Cream
Italian Panna Cotta served with a Tropical Fruit Salad
Chocolate Teardrops, Chocolate Mousse Strawberry Shards
Zesty Key Lime Pie
Kahlua infused Tiramisu
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