Runners Up to Best Crew In Show at the 2024 VIPCA Charter Yacht Show

Capt. Lukata Samuel
Lukata Samuel is a 100-ton Master Captain, born and raised in the beautiful Virgin Islands. With a deep-rooted knowledge of the Virgin Islands and surrounding areas, his love for the sea began at just 8 years old at the St. Thomas Yacht Club, where he first discovered his passion for sailing. His journey in sailing grew as he learned, taught, and shared his skills. Determined to make an impact, Lukata traveled to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to teach sailing to local youth. Afterward, he returned to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, where he worked on day charters.

In addition to sailing, Lukata is a well-known local runner and triathlete, having competed in multiple triathlons across the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. In his downtime, Lukata and Benita can often be found racing sailboats, volunteering in the local community, or relaxing on some of their favorite hidden beaches. They also dedicate their time to a sailing and wellness program, teaching youth in St. Thomas both the fundamentals of sailing and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Lukata has a deep passion for sharing the island experience with his guests, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the Caribbean lifestyle. He is committed to pushing the boundaries of ocean adventure, crafting a tropical oasis experience for all who join him. Every charter he leads offers a rich, diverse experience, including farm-fresh provisions, special island tours, visits to local eateries, encounters with local artists, and much more to give guests an authentic taste of the islands’ food, fun, and culture.

Lukata’s greatest joy comes from helping his guests live their dream island experience. His pride is in providing a magical journey that stays with them long after they leave. Inspired by a quote that he lives by, “The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for a newer and richer experience,” Lukata invites you to embrace the island spirit. Come be "irie" and catch the wind of wonders on Some Kind of Wonderful, as Captain Lukata sets sail for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Virgin Islands.





Chef Benita Marshall
Captain & Chef Benita Marshall radiates bright energy and has a deep love for sunset swims and fresh pesto. With over two years of experience and more than 1,000 nautical miles sailed in near-coastal waters, along with her USCG Master 100-ton license, Benita feels truly at one with the ocean, embracing wherever the waves lead her. Her family roots stretch across the Caribbean, from Cuba to Trinidad, making her a true "local island explorer" when it comes to food, culture, fun, and, of course, the sea.

Benita truly shines in the kitchen, where she transforms cooking into an art form. With over five years in the culinary and restaurant industry, she is experienced in accommodating various diets and allergies, believing that food should always make you feel better. Her favorite thrill is watching guests "dance when they eat," a joy she looks forward to with every meal she prepares. Alongside Lukata, Benita helps operate their family farms, Meder Mogzit and Greenridge Guavaberry, incorporating a farm-to-table approach to dining, ensuring every dish is infused with freshness and love.

Rising with the ocean's rhythm and the sun's light is how Benita envisions living her life forever. As a certified yoga and Pilates instructor, she believes that health is wealth, and she loves connecting with guests through mindful movement, meditation, and breathwork. Whether in prayer and meditation at dawn or doing flips off the boat by midday, Benita is passionate about nurturing both the spirit and the joy of life, making every moment count.

Together, Benita and Lukata offer an array of experiences, from farm tours and historic hikes to intimate encounters with local musicians and artists. They also create unforgettable adventures on the water, giving guests intangible souvenirs of their time in the islands. With their authentic Caribbean essence, Benita and Lukata invite guests to dive deep into island culture, food, fun, and the true essence of "island life."

DAY BREAK
Fresh Fruit Plate, Coffee, Tea, or Juice

Cinnamon French Toast
Served with berry compote, thick-cut bacon, and fresh fruit.

Sweet Crepes
Delicate crepes filled with fresh fruit and drizzled with warm syrup.

Avocado Toast
Fresh local bread topped with ripe avocado, thick crispy bacon, and your choice of egg.

Yogurt Parfait
Plain yogurt topped with fresh fruit, organic granola, and local honey.

Fresh Egg Scramble
With wilted spinach, tomatoes, and sourdough toast.

Shakshuka Eggs
Served with thick toast for dipping.

 

MIDDAY
Tea, Soda, Wine, Beer, or Cocktail

Caribbean Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad
Topped with homemade parmesan crisps.

Fish or Shrimp Tacos
Served with spicy crème fraîche, guacamole, and homemade corn chips.

Lobster Louie Salad
Big chunks of fresh lobster with hard-boiled egg, tomatoes, and homemade dressing.

Mango, Avocado, and Shrimp Salad
Served with warm homemade bread.

Greek Chicken Salad
With homemade dressing and warm pita bread.

 

HORS D'OEUVRES
Chef’s Drink Special of the Day

Marinated Cherry Tomatoes and Avocado
Served in a homemade Parmesan cup.

Charcuterie Board

Homemade Corn Chips
With homemade guacamole and pico de gallo.

Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Drizzled with balsamic reduction.

 

MAIN
Paired with a glass of wine, house salad and/or sliced French bread

Seared Scallops and/or Shrimp
Served with a brown butter lemon pan sauce and creamy risotto.

Red Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs
Paired with cauliflower mash and savory mushrooms.

Surf n' Turf
Fresh-caught grilled lobster and steak cooked to perfection, served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Savory Peruvian Chicken and Rice
Accompanied by sweet & savory plantains and a special green sauce.

Chicken or Fish Piccata
Seared in a tangy white wine lemon sauce, served with herbed brown rice.

Summer Risotto
Made with sweet corn, fresh tomatoes, and seared shrimp in a light lemon butter sauce.

 

DESSERT
Served with coffee or nightcap

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream
Topped with fresh fruit and Guavaberry Rum.

Double Chocolate Cake
Served with fresh whipped cream and berries.

Mini Cheesecake

Chocolate Tasting with Port

Pirate Bites
Caramel & chocolate wrapped in a warm pastry.

Homemade Cookies, Tarts, and Cakes