Born and raised in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina along the Intracoastal Waterway, Captain Blake’s passion for life on the water began at an early age. He spent his youth on his family’s runabout and wakeboard boats, constantly learning and developing his love for boating. An active waterman, Blake grew up wakeboarding, kneeboarding, tubing, water skiing, and jet skiing with his two older brothers.
He began his professional maritime career as a mate for TowBoatUS, delivering vessels to gain sea time and secure his Captain’s License. Blake steadily worked his way up through the ranks — from a 54’ motor yacht to a 76’ Lazzara, then a 124’ Trinity, and now proudly commands the 114’ Hargrave Brandi Wine.
Blake currently holds a 200 Ton USCG Master Near Coastal license, a 500 Ton ITC, STCW certification, and an Auxiliary Towing Endorsement. Known for his leadership, safety-first mindset, and warm hospitality, Captain Blake ensures guests are cared for with one of the most professional and personable crews in the industry.
His personal motto: “Always chase your dreams — if you can dream it, you can do it.”
Blake Sellars
Captain
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.
Christoff Van Zyl
Chef
With over a decade of hospitality experience and a passion for creating unforgettable moments, KelliAnn brings energy, creativity, and precision to every charter adventure. From orchestrating elegant themed evenings to managing top-tier service and ensuring the yacht’s interior shines, she approaches every task with adaptability and excellence.
Her journeys have taken her through the Bahamas, Caribbean, and beyond, where she’s seamlessly executed everything from lavish 43rd anniversary celebrations to soirées for 30+ guests, and even crafted Instagram-worthy floral arrangements. Whether it’s a morning espresso or a sunset cocktail, her attention to detail transforms each moment onboard into something magical.
When she’s not delivering exceptional guest experiences, you’ll likely find KelliAnn enjoying the turquoise waters of Staniel Cay, exploring new passions, or expanding her skill set with curiosity and drive.
KelliAnne St. Hilaire
Chief steward/ess
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 of Nassau, Bahamas and Fort Lauderdale, FL and is the full time deckhand on Brandi Wine. He is going on his 2nd year 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 4 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
Prior to Brandi Wine:
(M/Y Haven - 124ft Trinity) daywork 3 months
(M/Y Never Enough - 145ft Feadship) daywork for 2 months
(M/Y Sweet Emocean - 116ft Azimut) daywork 1 month
(M/Y Gioia - 116ft Custom Line) part time 4 months
Obie Hannah
Deckhand
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 the US Atlantic coast from Rhode Island to Grand Bahama. Soon after he discovered the action packed adventures of charter yachts. He’s on his 4th year on Brandi Wine, is looking forward to many more and he currently has his Masters 100 Ton Near Coastal.
Matthew Edwards
Mate