Painted Pelican - MarineMax 545
Introducing the power team aboard the Painted Pelican! Captain Joe brings years of experience navigating catamarans through some of the world’s most beautiful waters. Chef Ariq curates vibrant menus that blend Caribbean flavors with global influences, always using local, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or just adventurous with your palate, Ariq can accommodate any dietary need. Together, they’ll deliver the vacation of a lifetime for your family and friends.
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Captain: Joe Paolone
Joseph hails from the sailing community of the Niagara-on-the Lake in Ontario, Canada. He began boating as a baby on the shores of Lake Ontario, sparking a lifelong love for adventure and discovery on the open water. While studying history at Brock University, Joseph spent many summers working as a sailing coach at neighboring yacht clubs. It was during these years that he realized his passion for boating and his dream of a life at sea could be fulfilled by moving to the Caribbean.
For nearly a decade, Joseph has worked as a charter captain around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Pacific Ocean. He has completed multiple deliveries and was part of a Pacific crossing on a 32-foot sailboat in the spring and summer of 2024.
Joseph is excited to take you to the most incredible spots in the Caribbean on your charter. He is more than happy to teach guests anything they want to know about boating while sharing his passion for the sea. Joseph also enjoys staying active and can show you his favorite trails and snorkeling spots if that interests you. To top off an exciting day of activities, he would be delighted to make you your favorite cocktail as you relax and enjoy an amazing sunset. Whatever type of charter you fancy, Joseph will make it happen. -
Chef/Stew/Mate: Ariq Flax-Clarke
Chef Ariq Flax-Clarke grew up on the sunlit shores of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, where the aromas from his grandmother’s kitchen mingled with the salt air of the sea. Inspired by her gift for storytelling through food, Ariq 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 turquoise waters laid the foundation for a culinary identity deeply rooted in fresh, local ingredients. Ariq began working in kitchens as a teenager, building a strong foundation that now spans over 12 years of culinary experience. He holds 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, blending creative skill with business acumen. His career has taken him through fine dining internships, private events, and prestigious culinary competitions, including multiple medals with Team BVI at the Taste of the Caribbean Competition and has recently scored a second-place finish at the 2024 VIPCA USVI Charter Yacht Show Culinary Competition. He has also proudly represented the BVI on prominent stages such as 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. Ariq’s passion for understanding food’s origins inspired him to revisit his love for fishing, explore beekeeping and honey production, and even experiment with mead-making during the pandemic. Seeking greater creative freedom, he transitioned from traditional kitchens to the luxury yacht charter industry. For the past three seasons, he has served as chef aboard Barefoot Bliss, a 54-foot Bali Catamaran, curating vibrant menus that blend Caribbean flavors with global influences. When not in the galley, Ariq enjoys fishing, often incorporating his fresh catch into memorable onboard meals, snorkeling, discovering hidden coves, and sharing laughs with guests. His easygoing nature, meticulous attention to detail, and passion for hospitality ensure every charter is a personalized, unforgettable experience.
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Customer Testimonial
"The MarineMax charter was outstanding!!! Captain Joe was absolutely wonderful. He attended to our every need, had activities planned for us each day. It was truly a trip of a lifetime!!! We hiked, we snorkeled and went from island to island! The meals were excellent. We have never eaten so good! Loved every minute of this trip and would highly recommend to anyone!"
- Dennis Noel, MarineMax 545 Crewed Charter, Painted Pelican
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Customer Testimonial
From the moment we boarded with Painted Pelican from MarineMax, we felt like we’d been transported to paradise. Expectations were high—as they are with luxury vacations—but the team didn’t just meet them;they exceeded them in ways we’ll never forget.
The Captain was an absolute legend. With an encyclopedic knowledge of the area and a genuine passion for sharing it, he brought every destination to life. When he guided us through the breathtaking caves at Baths in Virgin Gorda, we weren’t just tourists; we were explorers, captivated by his stories and his excitement. Every day, he struck that perfect balance between adventure and ease, leading us to hidden snorkeling spots where we swam alongside the vibrant Caribbean Sea, or steering us through calm, picturesque waters as we cruised from one beautiful island to the next. He didn’t just feel like our captain; he felt like part of our crew, a friend with whom we shared laughter, dances, and stories.
The meals weren’t just food—they were an experience. Imagine the smell of fresh seafood grilling as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, or the surprise of a decadent dessert that rivals anything in a five-star restaurant. She didn’t just cook; she crafted each meal with love, care, and a genuine curiosity about our preferences. For two special birthdays, she pulled out all the stops, creating feasts that turned the nights into unforgettable celebrations. Her energy seemed boundless—she was always cheerful and engaging, meeting us each day with a warm smile that made us feel at home.
The yacht itself was immaculate—spacious, luxurious, and thoughtfully designed. Whether we gathered as a group for sunset drinks or found a quiet nook to read, it always felt comfortable and serene. Not once did we feel cramped or crowded;it was like every corner of the boat was designed for relaxation.
But more than the luxury, it was The Painted Pelicin's warmth and dedication that made this trip extraordinary. From early mornings to late nights, they put so much care into making everything perfect, always greeting us with smiles and enthusiasm that never seemed to fade. They struck that rare balance of being attentive yet unobtrusive, always there when we needed them but never hovering. It’s a rare gift to make strangers feel like family, and they have it in spades.In short, this wasn’t just a vacation—it was the experience of a lifetime, thanks to the Painted Pelican Crew and the entire MarineMax team. We’ll be telling these stories for years to come, grateful for every memory they helped us create.
- Kelly & Crew
Customer Testimonials
Douglass Still
I just wanted to tell you how great of a time that we had. You guys every single time, just just go and outdo yourself and continue to set the bar higher and higher and higher. James was a great captain and Joe is just the next level, I mean he is. He's so nice, so attentive, and just awesome. Gosh, Almighty! We had a great time, and cannot wait to do it again.Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making our vacation so absolutely awesome.
June 2025
“This trip was horrible, and loud, and unpeaceful” said nobody!
In fact, it was my best vacation ever, including when I got engaged in Italy . . . except this one has no regrets at all.
I sincerely wish you guys the best, and will definitely hire this crew again. A+ my friends.
April 2025
"The experience leveled up to our expectations - no easy accomplishment. An unforgettable time - relaxing, excellent, fun. The food was delicious.
Thank you for being gracious hosts and fantastic stewards of the BVI!"
February 2025
"We simply can’t imagine a better way to experience the BVIs. Our week aboard the Barefoot Bliss was nothing short of perfection. From our first steps onboard with sandwiches and drinks, we felt pampered. The crew was fantasic. They listened to our desires pre-trip and exceeded our expectations from start to finish - hitting all the popular spots you hear about on YouTube to finding idyllic anchorages like Little Harbour at Peter Island a favorite of most of us for the snorkeling, abundant sea turtles and secluded area. There was something about every stop to enjoy and the customized journey was excellent in every aspect. The food was out of this world. Ariq fixed delicious meals, presented beautifully - there is no way it could be improved! We leave with an appreciation of the beautiful islands and pristine waters with full stomachs and even fuller hearts!"
January 2025
"Best Boat Experience Ever!! The hospitality that we were greeted with was unmatched. Ariq was the best chef. I can honestly say the crew made our trip. We all had a great time. The BVI is incredibly beautiful. We are very grateful to have had this experience and share it with this dynamic duo. Not only were they attentive to our every need, but brought a lot of personality. It wouldn’t have been the same without them. Ask Ariq for the Caprese and the mango BBQ. They’re amazing. Would love to come back."
Sample Menu
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Breakfast
Served with fresh fruit platter, freshly brewed coffee, a selection of fine teas, and fruit juices
- Farm Fresh Eggs - scrambled, hard-boiled, fried, or frittata, using local herbs and spices (available daily)
- Crisp Bacon or Savory Sausages - pork, turkey, or beef. Smoked salmon option (available daily)
- Caribbean Breakfast Potatoes - Golden, herb-infused potatoes with a hint of local seasoning
- Fluffy Pancakes - Light and airy, served with warm maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar
- Classic French Toast - Thick-cut bread dipped in cinnamon custard, grilled to perfection
- Yogurt Parfaits Creamy - yogurt layered with house-made granola and seasonal fruit compote
- Avocado Toast - Smashed avocado on artisan bread, topped with microgreens and a squeeze of lemon
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Lunch
- Flatbread Pizzas - Baked crisp with flavor combinations such as caramelized onion jam & crumbled cheese, pepperoni with mozzarella, or prosciutto with arugula
- Grilled Peach or Red Plum Burrata Medley - Sweet stone fruits with creamy burrata, drizzled with honey and balsamic glaze, served with warm focaccia
- Street Tacos - chicken or shrimp, paired with fresh guacamole, grilled corn salad, and mango salsa
- Island Lobster Roll - Tender lobster in a coconut-lime aioli, topped with mango relish in a buttery brioche roll, served with plantain crisps
- Kebab Trio - Tender skewers of beef, chicken, or pork served with charred naan, broccoli Greek salad, and tzatziki
- Wagyu Beef Burgers - Juicy patties topped with brown sugar–caramelized onions, served with crispy potato wedges
- Crispy Fish Bao Buns - Wahoo or mahi mahi in soft steamed buns with slaw and sweet soy glaze
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Dinner
- Coconut Lemon BVI Snapper - Pan-seared and finished with a coconut-lemon glaze, served with roasted potatoes and asparagus. Alternate: tender chicken thighs
- Herb-Infused New York Strip/Ribeye Steak or Seared Scallops - Served with creamy mashed potatoes and charred broccoli, finished with herb butter
- Grilled Mahi Mahi Sauce Vierge - Fresh mahi with a light Provençal tomato-herb sauce, crispy potatoes or cassava, and seared zucchini
- Roasted Spatchcock Chicken - Juicy, oven-roasted chicken with mixed vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, and a creamy ajvar sauce
- Sweet Soy Glazed Pork Tenderloin or Chops - Served with roasted parsnip purée and grilled yellow and
purple cauliflower - Coconut-Braised Short Ribs - Slow-cooked and melt-in-your-mouth tender, with creamy polenta and charred cauliflower
- Potato Gnocchi - With butternut squash coconut purée, fried chorizo, and crispy sage
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Dessert
- Classic Pecan Pie - Sweet, nutty filling in a buttery crust
- Pound Cake French Toast - Served with pecan banana foster and vanilla ice cream
- Muscovado Poached Pears - Soft, spiced pears with a hint of caramelized sugar
- Classic Crème Brûlée - Vanilla custard with a caramelized sugar crust
- Panna Cotta with Berry Coulis - Creamy and delicate with a tart berry finish
- Honey Toast - Crisp golden bread with vanilla mascarpone whip and drizzled honey
- Tiramisu with a Twist - Kahlúa -soaked pistachio cake layered with mascarpone cream and finished with a dusting of cocoa