Your Crew
CAPTAIN Ariel Thrasher & CHEF Ariq Flax-Clarke
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.
Ariq Past Reviews 2025-26
<p>This was our first experience with Chef Ariq so we were a bit concerned because he had some mighty shoes to fill from Chef Julia last year.<br>Well he did not disappoint! Every meal was outstanding! My scale once home agreed! Loved his entree selections and his unique finishing touches. Joe & Ariq, we so much appreciated your friendliness, humor and commitment to ensure we made incredible memories with our family. Until next time…<br>-Charter Guest, May 2026<br> </p><p>I have to honestly say that I have never been treated better on any vacation in my life. From the moment that we stepped aboard the<br>Painted Pelican, we were instantly transported to another world. Captain Joe and Chef Ariq are the dynamic duo! Our needs were met as if by magic! The attention to detail was phenomenal. At one point, Captain Joe was even able to find Nyquil! The gourmet meals that were prepared were a culinary and visual delight-from freshly caught lobster to handcrafted dessert. I cannot say enough good things about this magical trip! If you find yourself down in BVI, be sure to request this team!<br>-Charter Guest, February 2026<br><br>…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….<br>• Charter Guest, December 2025</p>
Jume 2026 BVI Charter
<p>What an incredible wee we spent aboard Xandros! From the moment we stepped aboard until the last goodbye, every detail was handled with such care and professionalism and genuine warmth. Every meal was perfection (thank you Chef Ryan), every drink delectable (thank you Ellen), every adventure thoughtfully planned (thank you Captain Tyler) and every moment spent together was a gift for our family. You all somehow managed to make us feel completely pampered and completely home at the same time.<br>A charter is only as special as the people who make it happen, and each of you was and absolute 10! Your kindness hard work, attention to detail, constant smiles, care for our children made this trip far more than a vacation. It became a collection of memories our family will cherish forever. Thank you for sharing your talents and a little piece of paradise with us.<br><br>With Love and Gratitude, <br>The de Mena Family</p>