Hazel Della | 2023

Good friends planned this trip to the BVI. It was total relaxation from the time we stepped aboard the Hazel Della. Captain Nicholas and Chef Vaughan made it even better with the hidden gems of the Islands and exquisite food presentations. The meals were a surprise each day and the sail destination were to make memories for a life time.

The four of us had a fantastic week on Hazel Della with Captain Nicholas and Chef Vaughn! What a fun, kind, and knowledgeable team!!
It was my husband and my 3rd BVI charter and our friends' first and the crew went above and beyond to show our friends the must see spots and to find new ones we had never been too!
Captain Nic was a master at getting us the best mooring balls at popular spots (like the Baths) before it got busy, taking us to the BEST snorkeling spots and also incorporating all our wishes into the schedule! He hit it out of the park day after day!!
Chef Vaughn presented one fabulous meal after another, and really nailed it with what we liked and the amount of food to serve (which is a skill!). Captain Nic jumped in several nights to cook and use the onboard grill. We had never had a Captain who also loved to cook! What a great team!!
In addition, Nic and Vaughn were fun and energetic ALL week and really cared about us having a trip of a lifetime. Whether we were swimming, fishing, playing cards, going ashore, or just hanging out talking over fabulous drinks, we thoroughly enjoyed their company. They are both kind and generous and made us feel at home. At the end of the week we felt sad to leave our good friends behind, but hope to book another amazing trip with them!!!

We had a fantastic time cruising around the BVIs on the Hazel Della with Captain Nick and Chef Vaughn. The boat was immaculate inside and out. Nick and Vaughn made certain that we were comfortable and happy at all times. We did not have a set itinerary in mind and they helped us prioritize what we wanted to see. We covered a lot of "ground" in one week while also spending time in the water and lounging on deck. Nick had connections with reliable taxi drivers when we were ashore. The food was good and we had fun joking around with the crew.
Karaoke night was a highlight (not sure what the surrounding catamarans thought - they were probably jealous). Highly recommend this boat and crew.

I rarely write reviews but after an absolutely fantastic trip with Captain Nicholas and chef/mate Vaughn, I am compelled to give them a great review. Captain Nicholas and chef/mate Vaughn were outstanding. The guests were ALWAYS their first priority whether it pertained to activities, food and drink or knowing where to take their guests for the best BVI experiences. They really did pamper us. Wouldnt let us help with anything. Loved going to all of the different islands. The two of them excelled in their respective roles but also in sharing duties when necessary. We had a great time with them and thank them for their hospitality. Would love to be a part of a future cruise with them. We actually felt like one big family. Captain Nicholas and chef/mate Vaughn, thank you again for the great memories that we will never forget.

We came into this trip excited, but honestly nothing could have prepared us for how good it actually was.

As a small family of four, we were looking for something very specific: quiet, peaceful, and luxurious, and Hazel Della delivered that perfectly. From the moment we stepped on board, everything felt effortless in the best way. Every detail was clearly thought through, but nothing ever felt overdone.

The itinerary was spot on, with the perfect mix of sailing, unreal swim spots, tucked away anchorages, and those golden hour moments you wish you could pause.

And somehow it all felt both adventurous and completely safe at the same time. Captain Nicholas runs a tight ship, and you always knew you were in the best hands without it ever feeling restrictive.

But the real difference was the people.

Captain Nicholas and Chef Vaughn are truly exceptional. Captain Nicholas is not only calm, confident, and completely dialed in, but he also brings a bigger than life personality that made the entire experience even more memorable. He was incredibly engaging with our younger son, taking the time to play with him and make him feel included in a way that meant a lot to our family. That balance of professionalism and genuine warmth is rare, and he does it effortlessly.

And Chef Vaughn was something really special. Beyond being incredibly talented in the kitchen, he is kind, warm, and genuinely compassionate in a way that you feel right away. Every meal felt thoughtful and intentional, not just delicious but memorable. He somehow made each dish feel personal, and the quality and creativity of the food exceeded anything we expected. It is rare to find someone who combines that level of skill with such a sincere and caring presence.

We were celebrating Easter on board, and he made it feel incredibly special with thoughtful touches throughout, amazing meals, little surprises, and details that showed he was truly paying attention.

By the end of the trip, it did not feel like we were leaving a charter. It felt like we were leaving friends.

If you are even considering booking, do it. Seriously.

Sitting at our gate to head home after a 7 day private charter aboard Hazel Della in the BVI. Having never done anything like this before, we had no idea what to expect. What an incredible experience! Captain Nicholas Olney and Chef Vaughn Rundle catered to our every need and desire, creating an itinerary especially for us. They met with us prior to the trip to gather our preferences from food to activities to sights. They helped us arrange the travel days with water taxis and land taxis and it was seamless! Captain Nick was also our scuba dive master for the trip, ensuring our safety. But more than just doing their jobs, Nick and Vaughn became our friends and we so enjoyed hanging with them for the week. My one fear was “what if we get a crew that make it awkward to share such personal space?!” With Nick and Vaughn on Hazel Della (50 foot catamaran, 4 bedroom), we had no such concerns. By the end of the week they were family. If you’re looking for this experience, we 10/10 recommend!! Oh, and my son’s birthday was the first day and they had decorated the boat and made his favorite cake! Let me not forget to mention that they rescued us when we had an incident at The Baths, ha! The extra mile for sure!!

Amazing experience! Nicolas and Vaughan know all the best spots and how to make lifetime memories. Nicholas is a great captain and safe. Pain Killers rocked. Food was amazing.Vaughan. Can’t believe how perfect the week was.

Our family of six set sail on Hazel Della with the highest of hopes - and somehow, this crew exceeded every single one of them. From the moment we stepped aboard, the attention to detail was unlike anything we d experienced on any trip before. Everything felt considered, curated, and crafted with genuine care.
The itinerary was nothing short of inspired - a seamless blend of exhilarating sailing, hidden anchorages, snorkeling spots we never would have found on our own, and perfectly timed sunsets that made every evening feel like its own celebration. Safety was clearly a priority woven into every decision, yet it never once got in the way of the adventure. We always felt in capable, confident hands with Captain Nicholas.
Words genuinely fall short. What sets this charter apart — what makes it truly exceptional — is the crew. Captain Nicholas and Chef Vaughn are professionals in the truest sense: skilled, attentive, and warm in a way that feels
rare.
We were celebrating a milestone anniversary and birthdays on this trip, and the crew went so far above and beyond to honor both occasions that we were genuinely moved. Chef Vaughn's thoughtful touches appeared throughout - festive decor, delicious food and drinks that materialized seemingly from nowhere, toasts that felt personal because they were personal. They paid attention to us and they cared.
We came as guests and left as family. Book this crew - you will not regret it.

One of the best, if not THE BEST, vacations we have ever been on. Nicholas, our captain, and Vaughn, our chef, were simply amazing. They went above and beyond to provide the most amazing trip ever! They renewed to every one of our needs and requests. And they were a blast to hang out with on the catamaran for a week. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone and everyone. It is a Must-do trip!

We had the best time on our sailing trip! Being with family was amazing but our captain Nicolas and chef Vaughn made everything even more special. We would only do a charter with them again!

I have read a lot of the other reviews and there is nothing to add to them, it is simply a beautiful place in the BVIs. It’s magical and breathtaking and you must go on your own catamaran! What set this trip apart for us were our Captain (Nico) and Chef (Vaughn). They made the trip for us. I’m sure the scenery and experience are the same on most boats but you cannot replicate the feeling of spending the week with crew that become more like best friends. They made sure that we had the time of our lives on the Hazel Della and I cannot say enough about how magical they made this trip for me! As I told Nico when I gave them their tip, if I had brought double, I would have given that to them! They are spectacular and this yacht company is lucky to have these two men together on this boat. My only advice, only go if you want to relax and have a great time! These are the two that are made for that! It seems truly inadequate but thank you for the time of my life!

We always knew the sights & sounds of the British Virgin Islands would live up to its reputation as the “sailing capital of the world”. What we didn’t realize was how having the right crew could make it a truly memorable experience. Our Captain( Nicholas) and Chef/1st Mate(Vaughn) proved to be exceptional at what they do. From their sailing, culinary & itinerary skills; every task onboard was done with the same goal in mind…guest satisfaction. Our charter onboard the well appointed Hazel Della will forever be a cherished memory. To our South African friends aboard the Hazel Della…Baie dankie vir 'n werk goed gedoen!

You will pinch yourself each day with astounding beauty in every direction no matter what time of day or where the wind takes you! Captain Nicholas and Chef Vaughn bring passion, creativity, and fun surprises each day by listening carefully to what you want and like; guaranteeing to exceed your expectations! They know all the right places and the best times to be there to maximize your experiences. Then they will spoil you on board the luxurious Hazel Della with personalized service, kindness, and delectable treats based on your palate! They truly are kind, dedicated, and fun-insuring moments on board are as relaxing and enjoyable as the adventures they love to share! Thank you to a perfect team!!

We finally realized our dream of cruising the BVI. Our crew of Captain Nicholas and First Mate/Chef Vaughn made the week aboard Hazel Della incredible. Snorkeling at The Caves, The Indians and Diamond Reef were beautiful. Every morning the captain took us to a new island with new adventures. He surprised us with a few hidden gems, but I’m sworn to secrecy.

Chef Vaughn made every meal memorable, serving many of our favorites and a few specialties. His afternoon Charcuterie boards were fantastic. He managed our dietary requirements quite well.

Captain always accompanied us ashore to guide us to the best locations and scheduled all our reservations for dinners and taxis.

We’re already looking forward to our next cruise.

We just returned from a trip of a lifetime on the Hazel Della with Captain Nicholas and Chef D. To say it was amazing from the beginning to the end is an under statement. Captain Nicholas always made us feel safe and no request was too small or too big for him. I have no idea how Chef D created the delicious meals that she did in such a small space, but she truly has a gift. Both of them made us feel at home. The boat was beautiful and we would definitely sail on it again. I also want to give a shout out to Jared Hunsinger for all his help in putting this trip together.

Wonderful time sailing the Exumas on the Hazel Della!

My wife and I spent 10 days sailing the Exumas and it was great. The boat was new and immaculately maintained, the crew was amazing, every meal was gourmet. Wonderful trip!

My husband and I just returned from the most incredible yachting trip to the Bahamas aboard the Hazel Della, and let me tell you—this was not your average getaway. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be utterly pampered while floating in paradise, look no further.

First off, Captain Graham navigated the seas with such confidence and skill. His deep knowledge of the islands paired with his easygoing personality made every stop feel like a perfectly curated adventure.

And then there’s Sulet, the chef extraordinaire. I’m convinced she’s a magician because every meal she prepared was nothing short of phenomenal. From fresh seafood to decadent desserts, each dish was a masterpiece, leaving us marveling at how it was even possible to create such culinary magic in a yacht kitchen.

The trip was the perfect mix of relaxation and fun. One moment we’d be lounging on deck, sipping cocktails and pretending to be in a travel magazine, and the next we’d be snorkeling, exploring secluded beaches, or laughing with Graham and Sulet over dinner. They struck a flawless balance between being friendly and knowing when to give us space, which made our time onboard even more enjoyable.

And let’s talk about the vibe: think luxury without the pretension, like being spoiled by friends who just happen to be really, really good at hosting (and captaining and cooking).

If you’re considering booking a trip on Hazel Della, just do it. Trust me, you’ll come back with full hearts, happy taste buds, and a newfound respect for the art of living well. Graham and Sulet, thank you for the memories, the laughs, and for temporarily spoiling us so much that doing the dishes at home now feels like a personal insult.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ All the stars!

We chartered the Hazel Della for a 6-night trip through the Exumas, and it was—without exaggeration—the greatest vacation we’ve ever had. Graham and Sulet are nothing short of exceptional. The itinerary was the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation—we snorkeled, hiked, explored every hidden gem, and still had time to nap or eat Doritos on deck.

As a self-proclaimed foodie who’s notoriously hard to impress, I can honestly say the food was spectacular. Every meal was thoughtful, fresh, and delicious. Graham even took the time to teach me how to sail, which turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip.

We came aboard expecting a great trip, but we left with something more: a new perspective on life and two new friends. Graham and Sulet made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. If you’re lucky enough to find availability on the Hazel Della, book it—you won’t regret it.

Wow! Our week with Capt. Graham and Chef Sulet exceeded all of our expectations. The Hazel Della catamaran was so very comfortable, accommodating and clean. But what really made it special was the crew! They couldn’t do enough for us! This amazing team works so well together to make us feel special and pampered. Safety was a priority, along with expert navigational skills and knowledge of all the “secret spots”. Every single meal was exquisite, carefully plated and elegant. Not to mention the desserts, everything made from scratch.
There was never a dull moment as we were transported each day to breathtaking coves, beaches and safe harbors. Daily snorkeling was lovely and our scuba dives were filled with abundant sea life, including turtles, lobsters, rays, beautiful corals and reef fish. We also enjoyed fishing, paddling kayaks and paddle boards, and exploring special cays. There was plenty of time to soak in the peace of sailing, read a book and p

We were onboard the Hazel Della with two Dutch couples and one baby, and it was truly an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. This catamaran charter offered everything we could have wished for—comfort, adventure, and outstanding hospitality.

Sulet and Graham are the perfect crew. Sulet is not only incredibly kind and welcoming, but also an amazing cook. Every meal she served was fresh, flavourful, and beautifully prepared—she made dining onboard feel like a fine restaurant, only with better views!

Graham is an outstanding captain—experienced, calm, and always thinking one step ahead. He took us to stunning, remote locations far from Nassau, where we saw turtles, an eagle ray, and many types of sharks. His diving and snorkelling skills meant we explored magical underwater spots we’d never have found on our own.

Their flexibility, openness, and local knowledge made the trip even more special. Sulet and Graham are truly lovely people—easy to talk to, good-humoured, and a joy to be around. Even with a baby onboard, everything went smoothly, and they ensured everyone felt comfortable and included.

We can highly recommend this catamaran charter—it was a dream holiday, and we hope to return again in the future!

We just spent a week on the Hazel Della in the Exumas with Graham and Sulet. IT WAS AMAZING!! Five stars isn’t enough. The food was excellent. The diving with captain Graham was some of the best (and we are avid divers). The experience was unreal. We are so thankful and HIGHLY recommend the crew and the boat.

Our week long adventure in the Bahamas was like something out of a dream. Graham and Sulet were absolutely amazing - wonderful food, excellent sailing, and fun activities for everyone in our 6 person group. From snorkeling to paddleboarding to beach walks to simply relaxing on the boat, there was something for everyone. Graham struck a perfect balance of activity and down time, and Sulet made sure we didn't go hungry with delicious meals and snacks that always seemed to hit the spot. It'd be hard to pick a favorite day or meal because each one was special in its own way. The nurse sharks that hung out at the back of the boat will probably be a family highlight! And the pavlova! And the tuna steaks! The list could go on! We highly recommend sailing on the Hazel Della with Graham and Sulet. You won't regret it!

We just returned from an amazing week in the Bahamas on the Hazel Della catamaran, along with two of our children and their spouses. Captain Graham and Chef Sulet helped us create life long memories. Sulet kept us well fed with her delicious, beautifully presented meals and snacks throughout the day. Graham offered activity options every day such as snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, hiking on the islands, and lounging on the beaches. Playing Farkle with Sulet and Graham, and touching the sharks that swam around the boat were bonus highlights of the trip. It was a week that we will treasure for the remainder of our lives.

A week on the Hazel Della with Capt Graham and Sulet is totally unforgettable. From the 5 star meals Sulet makes in catamaran kitchen to Graham's knowledge of sailing and places to explore make it the trip of a lifetime. After a week of their hospitality and kindness I wished we booked 2 weeks.

Graham and Sulet were amazing!!!!!! Experts on the boat and ports and the best meals ever.
Had no interest in eating in any restaurant because it would not compare.

The adventure exceeded all expectations.

The Komiske and Dexter Families

Graham and Sulet were amazing!!!!!! Experts on the boat and ports and the best meals ever.
Had no interest in eating in any restaurant because it would not compare.

The adventure exceeded all expectations.

The Komiske and Dexter Families

There are no words to describe the experience we had, but the memories we take home with us will last a lifetime. Hazel Della catamaran is a beautiful and new platform to set the stage for a luxurious adventure. The bright chrome, shiny deck, and so many comfortable “venues” on this boat make sure you can do whatever your mood requires. You can isolate and read a book, or engage with others, share a fancy drink, or partake of the many water sporting items included on the boat. All while experiencing the many beautiful views that the Bahamas present.
We were enamored by the attention to detail, the kindness, the service of the crew towards their guests. They were always there to serve and even teach the basics of sailing and boat life. When asked, they would share their adventures in previous roles, multiple countries, motorcycle and hiking, overlanding and camping. This previous experience, and the “heart of an adventurer” they possess seems to have prepared them for this current place in life which they excel at. They made us feel like family, and we would certainly accept them into ours!
The food was yet another experience. Coffee available as we awoke, the chef made 3 special meals a day for us, each better than the last in some way. Fruit, veggies, and salad always part of every meal. Although I admit the seared Tuna was my favorite of the week, and Keylime Pie was expcetional as well.
There were multiple stops per day to enjoy a favorite snorkel spot, or dive at a cave. The captain was nearby to keep the guests safe and to offer encouragement for the best adventure. We took the tender boat through a secluded mangrove river where the young passengers paddled SUP in turtle rich waters.
We even had impromptu singing and karaoke in the evenings before bedtime. And one evening, some guests petted a gentle lemon shark hanging around the boat wanting attention.
Such fun, such luxury, such adventure is available on the Hazel Della.

We had a fabulous time in Exuma, the Bahamas. Thanks to our wonderful Captain Graham and our master chef Sulet! ❤️

Captain Graham organized a lot of activities for us, scuba dive, snorkeling with sea scooters, paddle boarding, swimming, hangout at the beach, hiking, and a magical surprise sunset experience that we will never forget! And in the evenings, he taught us some fun games (Forkle andTravatte) we became addicted to!

And we did a ton of eating outstanding food made by Sulet! Which is something we enjoyed thoroughly and looking forward to every meal! We are so impressed by her creativity and thoughtfulness in every single dish!

The diving spots are diverse and beautiful, each place has a unique underwater landscape. The island hopping are fun and gives great views of the ocean. We loved diving with the sharks in the Compass Cay, and an unforgettable sunset at the lobster Bay, the pig beach was unusual, and the Sandy Cay's little island has pretty Palm trees and the most accessible snorkeling with a million fan coral. 🪭 🪸

Our family of four including two teenage boys loved every single day of this Christmas and New Year trip in the Bahamas! Thank you!

We went on the Hazel Della this November and this is how I would describe my experience. You have to choose Graham and Suelet. It brought me back to my days as a beach lifeguard chasing the Endless Summer.

The Hobbit started with the song, "The greatest adventure is yet to be found," and if you're seeking an unforgettable journey, look no further than a trip aboard the Hazel Dela with Captain Graham and Chef Suelet in the breathtaking Exumas. From the moment we set sail, it was clear that this was going to be an experience of a lifetime.

Captain Graham is not just a skilled navigator but also an exceptional host, whose passion for the ocean and the islands shines through in every interaction. He expertly guided us through the stunning waters, sharing fascinating stories about the Exumas, ensuring our safety, and always making us feel at home aboard the Hazel Dela. His enthusiasm for adventure is infectious, and his local knowledge made every stop feel special and unique.

Chef Suelet is nothing short of a culinary wizard. Each meal was a delightful surprise, showcasing her incredible talent and creativity. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering tropical fruits, every dish was prepared with love and attention to detail. We eagerly anticipated meal times, knowing we'd be treated to an exquisite feast that would perfectly complement our day of adventure.

Speaking of adventure, the activities we enjoyed were nothing short of spectacular. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters was like stepping into a vibrant underwater paradise, teeming with colorful fish and stunning coral formations. Swimming at the Sea Aquarium was an absolute highlight, where we frolicked in the warm, inviting waters surrounded by playful creatures that seemed to welcome us into their world.

We had the opportunity to swim into Dudas Caves as well in the Bahamas, and it was an experience I will never forget. As we approached the cave, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation mixed with a little bit of trepidation. However, Captain Graham, with his warm enthusiasm and expert guidance, made the entire adventure feel both exciting and safe. Upon entering the cave, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking beauty surrounding me. Sunlight streamed through a hole in the ceiling, casting a stunning array of light that made the water glow a mesmerizing shade of blue. It felt like stepping into another world—one filled with magic and wonder.

Diving around Pablo Escobar’s plane was another exhilarating experience, offering a thrilling glimpse into history as we explored the wreck. The bluest and clearest water we’ve ever seen enveloped us, making every underwater moment a mesmerizing sight to behold.

Every day aboard the Hazel Dela was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with the stunning backdrop of the Exumas enhancing every experience. The camaraderie among our group, fostered by Graham’s warm demeanor and Suelet’s culinary delights, created lasting memories that we will cherish forever.

If you’re looking for the ultimate adventure in paradise, do yourself a favor and book a trip with Captain Graham and Chef Suelet on the Hazel Dela. The combination of breathtaking scenery, exhilarating activities, and mouthwatering meals guarantees that the greatest adventure is not just yet to be found; it’s right here waiting for you!

Islands are pretty. The water is blue. The boat was fantastic. More about each of them later but I want to first talk about SERVICE. Graham and Sulet of the boat Hazel Della were the most perfect hosts on our trip. We toured the Exuma's with them out of Nassau. I would be doing them a disservice if I did not give them more than 5 stars. Sulet should be in a Michelan Star Restaurant. Her food is that good and that unique. She also sets a table that is simply breathtaking. All of the sauces served were made on the boat. She even made her own ice cream while rolling over 4 foot waves during the day. Fresh brownies, Key Lime Pie and so much more was service after dinner. She stocked the boat as well with any liquor you could image as well as wine, champagne, presecco and so much more. But she also comes with Graham, the Captain. The two of them are the definition that 1 and 1 makes 10. Graham constantly checked in on us to see if all was great. He checked what we wanted to do and if what we just did met expectations. He is also a professional when it comes to sailing. Moreover, you could see his love for sailing as well. And perhaps best of all, his taste in music is fantastic. One song after another and one mix after another just increased the fun. Now I have to talk about the boat - Hazel Della from Iyachts. The boat was perfect. The rooms were huge. the boat was spotless and kept that way by Sulet and Graham. The boat also had tons of water toys and floats to help carry on the fun. Each morning They also made our beds and cleaned the floors and bathroom. Coffee was ready each morning as well as my tea. When they could, they joined into the Dance Parties. Graham was also a great leader in the water. He found an underwater tunnel and helped us all get in it. He did his homework as to what would be the best spots to stop during the day and where to anchor for the night. You will be missing a chance of a lifetime if you cannot find a way to spend a week with these two. Reilly Murray, Nov 25 2024

We spent a glorious week aboard the Hazel Della out of Staniel Cay, Bahamas. The accommodations were excellent with private bathrooms attached to each bedroom. The boat was well equipped with scuba and snorkeling gear.

The captain was friendly and full of sea stories. Also, extremely knowledgeable and patient. He conducted a refresher scuba class for us and took us snorkeling and diving. Jeremy is also a connoisseur of excellent coffee, which was ready every morning by 7AM

The Chef (Kiley) was an excellent cook and master of presentation, She prepared three meals a day with placemats and sometimes cocktails. (Her Lemon Drops are killer. ). The best Cheese Cake I have ever had. We went out to dinner one night at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club and (even thought it was excellent), it was not as good as Kiley's cooking on the boat.

We spent several Days Snorkeling and Diving. If you get a chance, snorkel into Thunderball Grotto and go feed the Swimming Pigs.