INDULGE II

Shachar Ben-David

Captain

American · English

<p>Captain Shachar “Shack” Ben-David began his seafaring career racing small sailboats on the lakes of northern England. After emigrating to the United States, he enlisted in the Coast Guard, serving as a navigation officer aboard vessels ranging from small patrol boats to large high-endurance cutters.</p><p>Shack first arrived in the Virgin Islands in the late 1990s and quickly developed a lasting love for the region. He later operated several Coast Guard vessels throughout the islands, gaining extensive local knowledge that continues to shape his charter itineraries today.</p><p>After retiring from the Coast Guard, Shack attended the Maritime Institute of Graduate Studies in Seattle before returning to warmer waters. He earned civilian qualifications aboard the cruise ship <i>Westerdam</i>, where he served as a watch officer and safety officer, before moving back to the Virgin Islands.</p><p>Since returning, Shack has worked both day and term charters throughout the Virgin Islands and beyond. His clients have included high-profile individuals and respected hospitality brands such as Ritz-Carlton and Rosewood. His in-depth knowledge of the region allows him to create itineraries suited to everyone from first-time cruisers to seasoned Caribbean travelers.</p><p>Shack holds a 500-ton Coast Guard Master’s License with STCW endorsement and an Unlimited Mate License with commercial radar, ECDIS, and GMDSS endorsements. He is also an Advanced Medical Care Provider and Vessel Security Officer. In his spare time, he enjoys outdoor adventures, reading, cooking, and mentoring young mariners through local youth programs.</p>

Michael Maximie

First Mate

Bahamian/American · English

<p>A native of Abaco, Bahamas, First Mate Michael Maxime has been surrounded by the ocean his entire life. He grew up exploring the Bahama Islands before moving to Florida, where he entered the charter industry as a deckhand aboard game-fishing boats operating throughout the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.</p><p>Michael quickly advanced to a mate position aboard an expedition yacht and continued building his technical and maritime experience by completing approved engineering courses and working aboard yachts up to 40 meters. He also holds a 100-ton Boatmaster certification and has accumulated hundreds of hours operating small craft and standing navigation watches.</p><p>On charter, Michael takes great pride in delivering a first-class guest experience. Whether providing Jet Ski instruction, guiding guests while snorkeling, assisting with water toys, or making sure every comfort is in place, he is always ready to go the extra mile.</p><p>When he is not on charter, Michael is an avid cyclist and can often be found riding the mountainous island roads in search of secluded beaches and panoramic hilltop views.</p>

Melinda Goforth

Chef

American · English

<p>Chef Melinda “Mindy” Goforth was raised in the historic coastal city of Charleston, South Carolina, where her love for the ocean and appreciation for Southern hospitality first took root. Surrounded by rich culture, art, history, and exceptional food, she developed a natural connection to coastal living.</p><p>After earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston in 2015, Mindy spent three years working in biomedical laboratory research. Longing for a life closer to the sea, she left the lab behind, purchased a boat, and taught herself to sail.</p><p>Her adventures have since taken her throughout the Bahamas, Caribbean Sea, San Blas Islands, and through the Panama Canal as a First Mate. In 2019, she completed her STCW training and fully embraced a professional maritime career.</p><p>With more than four years of experience as a yacht chef, Mindy further refined her culinary skills under Michelin-starred chefs at Ashburton Culinary Academy in the UK in 2021. Her cooking is complemented by gentle Southern charm, thoughtful hospitality, and a genuine desire to help guests relax, laugh, connect, and enjoy every moment onboard.</p><p>From delicious meals and refreshing cocktails to thoughtful personal touches, Mindy is dedicated to creating experiences that guests will remember long after the charter ends. She is also currently working toward earning her Captain’s License.</p>