Jacksonville’s waterfront is one of the city’s most memorable settings, and Jax Yacht Charter is helping guests experience it in an elegant, event-ready way. Featured on The Horse’s Mouth: Be Teal, Lezlee Peterzell-Bellanich, President of Jax Yacht Charter, shares the story behind a family-owned luxury yacht charter company built around hospitality, teamwork, and unforgettable moments on the St. Johns River.
Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Jax Yacht Charter offers private charters and public cruises aboard the 125-foot Royal Princess. With more than 25 years of experience in the yacht hospitality industry, the company specializes in weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, celebrations, and themed cruises.
A Jacksonville Yacht Charter Built Around Experience
Jax Yacht Charter is more than a venue on the water. It is a hospitality-focused experience designed for guests who want a memorable setting, attentive service, and a distinctive way to celebrate in Jacksonville.
The company’s mission is to create exceptional on-the-water experiences through outstanding service, elegant surroundings, and unforgettable memories. For anyone planning a special occasion, that combination matters. A yacht charter offers the rare opportunity to bring people together while enjoying the scenic views and atmosphere of the St. Johns River.
Meet Lezlee Peterzell-Bellanich, President of Jax Yacht Charter
As President of Jax Yacht Charter, Lezlee Peterzell-Bellanich brings leadership, hospitality experience, and a clear sense of purpose to the business. Her definition of success reflects both business strength and community impact.
For Lezlee, success means building a business that supports family, creates meaningful jobs, serves the community, and leaves a lasting positive impact. That perspective matters especially in the hospitality industry, where every event is personal and every guest experience counts.
A Career Achievement Anchored in Transformation
One of Lezlee’s greatest career achievements, alongside her husband, Capt. Rob Bellanich, is transforming the Royal Princess. The 125-foot, U.S. Coast Guard–certified vessel was once idle and inoperable. Through complete reconstruction and renovation, it became a modern, stunning yacht and the centerpiece of Jax Yacht Charter’s waterfront event offerings.
That kind of transformation requires vision, resilience, and teamwork. It also reflects a commitment to creating a destination-worthy experience for Jacksonville residents, businesses, visitors, and event planners.
What Makes Jax Yacht Charter a Unique Event Option
Choosing the right venue can shape an event’s entire tone. Jax Yacht Charter lets hosts move beyond a traditional event space and create an experience on the water.
Private Charters for Meaningful Occasions
Private yacht charters can be a strong fit for events where atmosphere, privacy, and guest experience are priorities. Jax Yacht Charter serves a range of occasions, including weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, and celebrations.
For hosts, the appeal is clear: a yacht charter can help turn an event into a shared experience. The setting naturally encourages conversation, connection, and a sense of occasion.
Public Cruises and Themed Experiences
In addition to private events, Jax Yacht Charter offers public cruises and themed cruises aboard the Royal Princess. These experiences give guests another way to enjoy Jacksonville from the water, whether they are celebrating something special or simply looking for a memorable outing.
Practical Tips for Planning a Yacht Charter Event in Jacksonville
If you are considering a Jacksonville yacht charter for an upcoming event, a thoughtful planning process can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Start with the Purpose of the Event
Before choosing details, define the event’s goal. A wedding, fundraiser, corporate gathering, and milestone celebration each require a different atmosphere. Understanding the purpose helps guide decisions around timing, format, guest experience, and overall tone.
Think About the Guest Experience
A yacht event is not just about the destination; it is about how guests feel throughout the experience. Consider what will make the event comfortable, engaging, and memorable for attendees. The best events balance elegance with ease.
Choose a Setting That Supports Connection
The St. Johns River provides a scenic backdrop for conversation, celebration, and community. For business events, it can help create a relaxed environment for relationship-building. For personal celebrations, it can make the occasion feel distinctive and special.
Leadership, Teamwork, and the Spirit of Jacksonville
Lezlee’s approach to performance is rooted in knowing her strengths, recognizing when to pivot, and adapting to new opportunities with confidence. She also points to a sports lesson that applies directly to business: work as a team.
That mindset is reflected in the story of the Royal Princess. Rebuilding and renovating a yacht of that scale was not a one-person effort. It required collaboration, commitment, and a shared belief in what the vessel could become.
Lezlee is also connected to the Jacksonville business community through the Jax Chamber of Commerce, underscoring the company’s local roots and commitment to the city’s broader growth.
Featured on The Horse’s Mouth: Be Teal with Tom McManus
Lezlee Peterzell-Bellanich appeared on The Horse’s Mouth: Be Teal on Thursday, July 30, 2026.. The conversation highlights Jax Yacht Charter, the story behind the Royal Princess, and the leadership perspective guiding the company forward.
Hosted by Steve Strum, The Horse’s Mouth gives local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community voices a platform to share their stories in an engaging, conversational format.
Conclusion: A Signature Waterfront Experience in Jacksonville
Jax Yacht Charter represents the best of what a hospitality business can be: family-owned, experience-driven, and connected to the community it serves. From private charters to public cruises, the company offers a memorable way to enjoy Jacksonville’s waterfront aboard the Royal Princess.
For weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, celebrations, and themed cruises, Jax Yacht Charter gives guests an elegant setting and a distinctive St. Johns River experience.
Learn more or plan your next on-the-water event with Jax Yacht Charter at https://jaxyacht.com.
