BRANDI-WINE

About the Crew

Captain - Blake Sellers
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Born in Myrtle Beach, SC, where he lived on the Intracoastal Waterway, Blake’s dream was always to become a yacht captain. He spent time on his family’s runabout boats, wakeboard boats, and jet skis learning how everything operated. He was always on the water every chance he got and would wakeboard, kneeboard, tube, water ski, wake surf, and jet ski together with his two older brothers. Starting out as a mate for TowBoatUS he started in the yachting industry delivering vessels in order to gain his Sea Time and Captain’s License. Blake worked his way up from a 54ft Motor yacht, to a 76ft Lazzara, to a 124’ Trinity, and now to the 114ft Hargrave Brandi Wine.
Captain Blake currently holds his 200 Ton USCG Masters Near Coastal/500 Ton ITC, STCW trained, and Auxiliary Towing Endorsement. He looks forward to having you aboard Brandi Wine where you will be greeted with one of the best crews in the industry ensuring you a safe and wonderful vacation. Captain Blake’s motto for the yachting industry is “always chase your dreams, because if you can dream it, you can do it”



Mate - Matthew Edwards
Nationality: American
Languages: English

Matt was born and raised in Virginia Beach. From there he grew up on boats and was always in the water. When he wasn’t in the water he was playing football. After High school he realized his passion was for the open ocean and pursued a career on yachts. He was a deckhand for 2 years on a private yacht where he traveled up and down US Atlantic coast from Rhode Island to Grand Bahama. Soon after he discovered the action-packed adventures of charter yachts. He’s completed 3 years on Brandi Wine and is looking forward to many more.



Rotational Chef -Christoff Van Zyl
Nationality: South African
Languages: English

With a rich culinary heritage and a passion for global cuisine, Chef Christoff infuses every dish aboard BRANDI-WINE with creativity, flavor and comfort. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, he came of age in London, UK before making South Florida his home. His tri-continental training and experience spans top-tier restaurants and private yachts across the USA, Bahamas, Caribbean, and Mediterranean. Christoff is known not only for his vibrant personality but also for his unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. His menus are thoughtfully designed to showcase fresh, local ingredients and accommodate a wide range of dietary needs. From refined seafood dinners to relaxed beachside BBQs, Christoff ensures every meal is a memorable culinary experience.



Chief Stewardess - KelliAnn St. Hilaire
Nationality: American
Languages: English

With over a decade of hospitality experience and a flair for creating unforgettable guest experiences, KelliAnn brings energy, creativity, and precision to every charter adventure. Whether orchestrating elegant theme nights, managing top-tier service, or ensuring a yacht’s interior sparkles, she approaches every task with adaptability and excellence. Having journeyed through the Bahamas, Caribbean, and beyond, she’s handled it all: coordinating lavish 43rd anniversary celebrations, hosting soirées for 30+ guests, and crafting Instagram-worthy floral arrangements. From morning espressos to sunset cocktails, her attention to detail makes every moment onboard feel like magic. When KelliAnn is not crafting stellar guest experiences, you might find her enjoying the beautiful waters in Staniel Cay or trying new things and continuously growing new skills.



Deckhand - Obie Hanna
Nationality: Bahamian
Languages: English

Obie is from Nassau, Bahamas, and has a wife and 3 daughters at home. He started his yachting career as a diver and exterior dayworker cleaning many vessels throughout the marinas in Nassau whether they be passing through or staying for trips. He made a name for himself in the yachting industry in Nassau doing what he loves. He is now based out Nassau, Bahamas and Fort Lauderdale, FL and is the full time deckhand on Brandi Wine. He is starting his 1st full season on Brandi Wine, and having his local knowledge of his home country and his skill set of diving and spear fishing on board is a special treat for our guests. He has been in yachting for 3 years now. Some of his favorite hobbies and activities are diving, spear fishing, and most importantly is spending quality time with his wife and kids