yacht charter mediterranean captain sandy

'Below Deck Med' Chef Jono Responds to Captain Sandy's Desire to Fire Him

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The Big Picture

• Chef Shillingford was surprised to learn Captain Yawn wanted him fired.
• Yawn considered replacing Shillingford after guest complaints about his food.
• Despite differences, Shillingford respects Captain Yawn post-filming.

Below Deck Mediterranean star Jonathan Shillingford is claiming that he had no idea Captain Sandy Yawn wanted him fired. The whole drama started unfolding majorly during Below Deck Mediterranean Season 9, Episode 4, which aired on June 24, 2024 , and especially after the current guests aboard Mustique complained about Chef Shillingford’s food . Now, according to Shillingford, not only did the Captain consider firing him from the reality series , but she also had a backup chef ready to replace him.

This came as a huge shock to Shillingford who joined Below Deck Mediterranean Season 9 as the new chef. In an interview with US Weekly, Shillingford admitted that it was not nice for him to know that Captain Yawn was trying to get rid of him . In fact, Shillingford revealed that he found out about her opinion of him at the same time as the audience. “I didn’t feel that during the show. I didn’t know that was her position,” added the reality chef.

However, he did go on to say that despite their differences, he still has a lot of respect for Captain Yawn. Now that the filming for the show is over, the chef maintains that working with the Captain and her crew was an honor. Shillingford shared that he grew up in a family of strong women. So, working with a female captain was an honor for him, regardless of whatever transpired.

Captain Yawn Tried To Stick Up for Chef Shillingford in the Beginning

The midseason trailer for Below Deck Mediterranean Season 9 showed growing tensions between the Captain and the brand-new chef on her yacht. Then, Season 9, Episode 4 shows Yawn questioning Shillingford’s future on the show after he served tuna carpaccio to a guest who couldn’t eat raw seafood. The incident leads to Yawn telling the cameras that she has no choice but to fire Shillingford after the mistake.

Yawn and Shillingford sit down to have a conversation about the chef’s performance during the same episode. Things seem to end on the right note but the Captain is seen requesting a backup chef right after that. Yawn defends her decision in a confessional in the following words:

“I know we are only at charter two but the food has to be perfect from charter one. In the past, I have given second chances. The one thing I am not going to wait on is finding another chef just in case he doesn’t come through.”

This was a complete shift from how the Captain felt about her chef during the Season 9 premiere when she backed Shillingford up after he couldn’t wake up to make food for the guests late at night . The yacht stew, Elena Dubaich , who attempted to wake Shillingford up in the middle of the night was actually reprimanded by the Captain who told the crew to ”never wake the chef up.”

Below Deck Mediterranean

In a luxury charter yacht traveling across the Mediterranean, crew members face both the challenges of managing upscale guest expectations and the complexities of their own interrelationships. Each episode highlights the high-octane world of yachting where exceptional service standards meet personal drama and adventure.

Below Deck Mediterranean Season 9 is currently airing on Bravo every Monday. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Peacock.

Watch on Peacock

Capt. Sandy Yawn from 'Below Deck Mediterranean' shares cruise tips and more ahead of new season

Awe-inspiring backdrops, difficult yacht charter guests and cruise crew drama have fueled one of TV's most popular reality shows. Since "Below Deck" premiered on Bravo in 2013, it's spawned a number of spinoffs, beginning with the popular "Below Deck Mediterranean" series, which premiered in 2016.

Just in time for the highly anticipated Season 8 premiere on Monday, TPG had the chance to talk with the show's captain, Sandy Yawn. She shared cruise tips, favorite experiences and what to expect this season.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What's new on 'Below Deck Mediterranean'

This season's locale promises to be one of the franchise's most picturesque journeys yet, as the team traverses the Italian Riviera and Genoa, Italy, aboard the luxury yacht Mustique.

In the northwestern corner of Italy in the Liguria region, the Italian Riviera stretches along the Ligurian Sea from the Italian-French border to the Tuscan border. It's renowned for its multicolored fishing villages, panoramic vistas, cerulean waters and pristine beaches.

"The Italian Riviera is beautiful, the cuisine is incredible and the people are friendly," Yawn said. "The minute you drive around on a yacht, and you see it open up to Portofino, you're just like, 'Oh, my gosh!' You have Santa Margherita or Rapallo — there are so many beautiful locations."

The idyllic landscape and onboard challenges provide an interesting contrast for the show.

"I think the mix of 'Below Deck Mediterranean' is you find the spice in the middle of the beauty. It's spicy and saucy, and also elegant and calm there," she continued. "You'll see on this season I get angry with someone, so you have to keep watching and find out."

Related: Crew from 'Below Deck Down Under' shares travel tips ahead of new season

Celebrity Ascent godmother

In addition to her title as a luxury yacht captain and reality show celebrity, Yawn can now add godmother to her list of superlatives. Yawn and her sister Michelle Dunham, founder of the Jacksonville School for Autism, will serve as co-godmothers for Celebrity Cruises ' newest ship, Celebrity Ascent. The sisters join the first two-brother captain team in the industry, Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis.

"They were considering me to be a godmother, and they wanted to have two sisters," Yawn explained. "They Googled my sister because they wanted someone who's very philanthropic, of course, and gives back, and that's my sister."

Related: The 9 most exciting new cruise ships of 2023

Yawn expected the invitation might be difficult for her sister to believe.

"I asked them to please tell her, so I looped her into the call," Yawn shared. "It's going to be great! I'm so excited."

The 3,260-passenger Celebrity Ascent will be the line's fourth Edge-class ship (a fifth vessel in the series also is on order). Its maiden voyage will depart from Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 3 and stop at Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Following its debut, the ship will sail weeklong cruises from Fort Lauderdale through winter 2024 before moving to Europe for summer Mediterranean sailings in Greece, Turkey, Italy, Spain and France.

"Captain Sandy's life story is one of resilience, leadership and strength as a pioneer in the maritime industry and as an inspirational role model for young women," Celebrity Cruises president Laura Hodges Bethge said. "Her sister Michelle is a tireless advocate for children with autism and shows us what is possible when you follow your vision for a better world. Both women live by Celebrity's values, and we have no doubt they are the perfect choices for Ascent."

Yawn had always been fully embedded in the "luxury yachts are better" camp and had no intention of crossing over to the big-ship side. However, after accepting an invitation to the launch of Celebrity Beyond from the line's then-president and CEO, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, she changed her perspective.

"Honestly, as a captain, I said I would never go on a cruise ship in my life ever," Yawn said. "She invited me to come on the new ship launch of Beyond, and from that moment forward, I was like, 'I will now go on a cruise ship because of their Apex series.'"

"Before, I was like, 'If it's not on a yacht, I'm not doing it,'" she added. "But that changed because I had that experience on Beyond."

Yawn cited Celebrity Beyond's top-notch service, luxurious cabins and fantastic restaurants as reasons for her recent big-ship conversion. However, she's not ready to abandon her first love.

"The experience on a yacht is very different," Yawn explained. "It's an intimate setting with only 12 guests, and we go into ports that cruise ships can't fit into and anchor off."

Tips for chartering a yacht

If you've never chartered a luxury yacht but want to add it to your bucket list travel experiences, Yawn offers a few tips.

" Go to a place you really want to visit — whether you're on a private yacht or you charter a catamaran in the [British Virgin Islands] — get the destination right," she said. "Where you drop your anchor is your experience, so really plan that."

Working within your budget and researching your crew are other important considerations, according to Yawn.

"Know your budget, do your background [research] on the boat and the crew," she shared. "Ask former clients who have chartered before, write them an email and see what they say [about their experience]."

Yawn's most important tip for yacht life? Don't overpack.

"Just keep it light and simple," she said. "You just live in your bathing suit and there's not a lot of room on smaller boats."

Memorable travel experiences

Whether in the water or on land, Yawn makes the most of every travel experience.

"I find the joy and the uniqueness of each place I visit — different cultures, restaurants, types of food — it's incredible," she shared.

Yawn was in London during our interview and offered a list of reasons for her affinity for the city.

"London's incredible," she shared. "Every corner you turn, there's history. Every building has character, the people are friendly, and the food is excellent."

Bottom line

Whether you're a fan of ocean-centric reality TV or need a little travel inspiration for your next vacation, "Below Deck Mediterranean" can check both boxes.

"Below Deck Mediterranean" Season 8 features cast members Natalya Scudder and Kyle Viljoen from last season; "Below Deck Down Under" alums Tumi Mhlongo and Luka Brunton; and newcomers chef Jack Luby, bosun Ruan Irving, deckhands Haleigh Gorman and Lara Du Preez and stewardess Jessika Asai. The season kicks off on Bravo on Monday, Sept. 25, at 9 p.m. EDT. It will also be available to stream the next day on Peacock.

Related reading:

• Insider tips for eating and drinking your way through Italy
• Best Mediterranean cruises in 2023 and 2024 for every type of traveler
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Guide to picking a cruise line
• Save on streaming this year with these credit card perks

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Home: Inside the star yacht of Below Deck Mediterranean season seven

Television network Bravo has confirmed the return of Below Deck spin-off Below Deck Mediterranean as the seventh season wraps up filming in Malta. The hit reality series, which follows a yacht crew over an eight-week charter season, will premiere its new season on July 11 with Captain Sandy Yawn at the helm of an all-new yacht named Home . Take a look inside...

The 50 metre Home was built by Dutch shipyard Heesen in 2017 as a 'home away from home' for her owner. It was one of the first superyachts of its size to feature a hybrid propulsion package, which makes her 48 per cent more efficient than other 50 metre yachts, and is the first diesel-electric motor yacht to appear on Below Deck .

The yacht was started on speculation and construction was already underway when her owner joined the project. Home 's lines were designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects and inspired by another Heesen build, the 50 metre Sibelle . A vertical bow serves a dual purpose, helping the yacht to carve through waves, but also creating more room on the interior to place the crew accommodation. In order to stay under 500GT, Omega created walkaround decks with cut-out bulwarks that offer uninterrupted sea views from each of her two lounges.

The interior was started on spec but wasn't to the tastes of the owner, who brought in designer Cristiano Gatto to rework the design. The new brief was for a modern, comfortable interior; the keyword was simplicity, not minimalism. 

Home can sleep up to 12 guests in six cabins: a full-beam master suite can be found on the main deck, while a full-beam VIP cabin, two double cabins and two twins are found on the deck below. The decor takes inspiration from the owner's on-shore properties with a contemporary, "Ibiza-style" feel. Low-slung sofas are featured throughout with a palette comprised of white, black, grey and a deep red.

The sun deck will be a popular spot with guests during the series. There's a sit-up bar shaded by a hard top as well as a Jacuzzi and a dancing pole. A quartet of sun loungers can be found aft with yoga mats tucked underneath, while a projector and a screen set-up can transform the deck into an outdoor cinema. 

Another spot for riotous evenings is the sky lounge, which in effect is an extension of the outside deck with beanbags, day beds and teak flooring. The space is serviced by a bar and is a popular spot for lounging in the cool air and taking in the view. Alternatively, the doors to the aft deck can be shut, the furniture removed, a mirror ball and a smoke machine can be added and the area becomes a dedicated party room.

More fun can be found on Home ’s foredeck, in a telescopic seat that rises from the bow, allowing uninterrupted 360-degree views. It can even be used underway if the conditions are right. 

Captain Sandy will be joined by returning Below Deck cast member and deckhand Mzi “Zee” Dempers, as well as a trio of new department heads. 

Home is currently available for charter with Burgess starting from $245,000 a week. She is also jointly listed for sale with Burgess and Christie Yachts asking €29,500,000.

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Below Deck Med 's Captain Sandy Confronts Rude Guests Over "Difficult" Behavior—and One Isn't Having it

Below deck mediterranean 's captain sandy yawn was forced to have an awkward conversation with some demeaning guests who were less than kind to the crew during the bravo series' aug. 12 episode..

These demanding Below Deck Mediterranean guests definitely know how to rock the boat.

A disrespectful new group of vacationers made waves with the crew during the Bravo series' Aug. 12 episode.

From complaining about walking up and down stairs to arguing with the staff about cutlery and even asking the interior crew to rearrange the "eye sore" furniture, the rude travelers—led by head charter guest Mahisha —left a bad taste in everyone's mouths. In fact, their behavior went so far, Captain Sandy Yawn was forced to step in a give the group a talking to about their demeaning attitudes.

"I always say this: If you beat character down, you're gonna kill their spirit," Sandy told the guests. "But if you're gracious and you're thankful, you're gonna build them up and they're gonna wanna do more for you."

"I had a client who spent a million euros on a charter, they were so rude to my crew," the Captain continued. "I pulled the primary in and I said, 'I'll cancel your charter tomorrow if you treat my staff like that again.' They turned it around like that, because I called the owner and he goes, 'I don't need to money. End the charter.'"

The reprimanding caused one of the guests, Neysla , to walk away and say under her breath, "I'm, like, over this conversation."

However, Sandy noted how amazing her season nine crew is, adding, "I'm happy to have them."

In a confessional, the Captain explained why she felt the need to intervene after receiving complaints from her crew, namely beloved Chief Stew Aesha Scott .

"How you treat others is really important," she noted. "From what Aesha and the other crew are saying to me, these clients are difficult. Did I get my point across?"

And Sandy's words worked like a charm. Later that day, Aesha even admitted how shocked she was by how polite the group had become.

"All of a sudden, the guests seem to have this base level of decency," the Chief Stew recounted in a confessional. "Maybe they reflected and realized how horrible they were and this is their way of saying their sorry."

And when the charter was over, Mahisha gave the crew a glowing evaluation.

"Thank you guys so much, this was amazing," she said as her party disembarked. "I don't think we had any issues, did we?"

Aesha's reaction? "Were we on the same charter?!" she hilariously remarked in a confessional. "I mean, I'll take it for sure, but this is so confusing."

Keep reading to look back at some more of the wildest guests in Below Deck history. Below Deck Mediterranean airs Mondays at 9 p.m. on Bravo.

The Bravo franchise has had plenty of dramatic and crazy moments thanks to some unruly and demanding guests, including Georgia , who was a little too flirty with no-nonsense leader Captain Lee Rosbach .

Sometimes, you just want a foam party—at least, that's what this demanding guest asked for. Was it eyebrow-raising to see him drunkenly partying in what ended up being about four inches of foam? Yes. Was it still epic because of how excited he was? Also yes.

Where do we start with Delores ? The season eight Below Deck charter guest made a splash, literally and figuratively, after she drunkenly jumped into the ocean late at night. To make matters worse, this swimming session was in direct defiance to Captain Lee's order to stay on the boat. In a first for his career, Captain Lee ended Delores' charter early and sent her packing.

However, while being escorted away on the tender, Delores jumped into the ocean. Bold move, lady.

Barrie boarded the Parsifal III with his blended family, including his current fiancé and his ex-husband, in season two of Below Deck Sailing Yacht . With such a large guest list, the crew was certainly put to work, especially chef Natasha . Not only did Barrie have no problem sending his breakfast back, but he also refused to have his family served buffet-style.

The first charter of Below Deck season eight was certainly a memorable one. We're, of course, talking about when the charter guests found themselves bickering over deckhand  James Hough . Specifically, charter guest Shay called dibs on the British yachtie. However, her boatmance hopes were derailed when pal Lexi flirtatiously rode a jet ski with James. Thus, a fight broke out over dinner, which shocked the Below Deck crew.

It was ladies night on the high seas in this episode of  Below Deck Mediterranean , but as the drinks flowed, some of the women started to get a little handsy  with deckhand  Jack Stirrup . Thankfully,  Captain Sandy swooped in to save the day.

The crew aboard this ship got a show they didn't ask for when two of the guests hooked up in the crow's nest, a part of the ship that everyone could see on camera.

In the same episode that the crew witnessed the on-deck hookup of two of their guests, they also discovered that their passengers also had never heard of cleaning up after themselves when they stumbled upon a used condom on the nightstand.

For the most part, the charter guest is always right. However, in season two of Below Deck Sailing Yacht , charter guest Erica requested that Captain Glenn Shephard do something to make the ship stop rocking. Unfortunately for Erica, they were in the middle of a thunderstorm and Captain Glenn didn't have the power to control the weather.

Other highlights from this charter group include a woman with hours worth of stories, bullying accusations among the ladies and so much more.

While many guests on  Below Deck have been demanding, this may be the most ridiculous request because of how random it was. On one of the episodes, guests demanded gumballs, but not just any gumballs. They had to be colored gumballs and they even threatened to require they be delivered by helicopter if there were none on board.

Not every guest has found their trip to be a five-star experience, but usually they stick around to give feedback as to why. On this episode of  Below Deck , we learn that a few of the guests straight-up ghosted upon arrival and fled the ship before even saying goodbye to the crew.

(E! and Bravo are both part of the NBCUniversal family)

• Entertainment

The Untold Truth Of Below Deck's Captain Sandy

Below Dec k's Captain Sandy Yawn made major waves when she climbed aboard spin-off show  Below Deck:  Mediterranean   in Season 2 . As one of only a handful of female yachting captains in the industry, Yawn, who is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., started off at an immediate disadvantage upon joining the crew.

However, Yawn — known best as just "Captain Sandy" — has turned her unique position into a major selling point, leading the charge through season after season of the hit Bravo show, all the while proving herself calm under pressure, a great mentor, and an even better boss. Comparisons to the legendary Captain Lee abound but this is one lady whose style is all her own.

The reality TV star had her hardships, found love in a modern, tech-obsessed age, and even earned a nickname for her impressive managerial style. This is the untold truth of Below Deck Med 's inimitable Captain Sandy.  

She's Sandy to her friends but Captain Sandy to her Below Deck crew

It's difficult to know how to refer to Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn — should people use her surname, call her Captain Sandy, or even Captain Yawn? The folks over at Decider were similarly confused, so they asked the Below Deck Mediterranean fan fave how she likes to be addressed. "Anyone can call me Sandy. What happens in the yachting industry is people think we're all friends because we live together. And then they start losing that, 'Oh my gosh, she's actually in charge of me,'" she explained. 

Captain Sandy ensures her team knows who's the boss right off the bat, even though she considers herself a "warm" and "friendly" person by nature. "I always want people to feel I'm approachable. Having said that, I also need them to remember that I am in charge, and if you don't set that precedent in the beginning, then they get confused because I play a lot," she said. Considering how beloved she is among staff both past and present, clearly whatever Captain Sandy is doing is working. 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy almost died in a motorbike accident

Anybody who's had even a fleeting glimpse of Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn in action know she's a total boss babe. But her strength goes beyond leading a difficult crew on the high seas. As she revealed in an interview with Women's Health , a near-death experience ended up saving her life. Yawn recounted how, in February 2015, when she was 49, she  crashed her motorcycle into a car, which left her with fractured bones in most of her limbs.  

After having full reconstructive surgery on her foot and ankle, which were both totally crushed in the accident, a chance meeting with a urologist friend-of-a-friend led to a tumor being discovered on Captain Sandy's kidney. She had laparoscopic surgery less than a month later to remove it. "Who would have ever thought they would be grateful for being in a motorcycle crash? But I was. As the doctor explained, it might have been years until that tumor was found. At that point, the cancer would have progressed, and it would have been too late," she revealed. 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy is not the crew's mother, she's their leader

The casts of Below Deck and Below Deck   Mediterranean might not be as debauched as, say, the Vanderpump Rules lot, which features the likes of Lala Kent and  Stassi Schroeder , but spending so much time isolated on boats together does bring out a certain... element in people, particularly young, hot crew-members looking to quash their boredom between shifts. Thankfully, Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn couldn't care less what her charges get up to on-board, just as long as they keep things kosher when the time comes.

"How I handle it is, I don't care who you sleep with or if you all sleep together, but the minute you come up on deck you better be professional. I don't want to see that behavior on deck and do your job. And they do. Most of the time they do their jobs," she told People . Although Captain Sandy has had to intervene a few times, she makes it clear that she's "not their mother" but "their leader." And, as their leader, the Below Deck Med star understands that "they have to have outlets," adding, "You can't demand what we demand from these crews and not let them have these outlets." 

Shared faith helped Below Deck's Captain Sandy find love

After years of working in a male-dominated industry, wondering whether she'd ever find someone who could fit into her insanely busy life, Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn found love in the unlikeliest of places: on Facebook, where gospel singer Leah Shafer sent her a sweet message about Below Deck Mediterranean . It stood out among a multitude of DMs because of the "many blessings" at the end, which struck a chord with the faith-focused yacht captain. After researching Shafer, Captain Sandy realized she'd be ideal for her "I Believe" speaking tour "because her music has a message," as she told The Cheat Sheet .  

When the two finally met in person, they knew instantly. Captain Sandy even relocated to Denver to be with Shafer. Their shared faith brought them together, with Shafer revealing, "It was like a spiritual connection in the beginning. She has a passion for inspiring through music and the youth. And broken people and so do I coming from the gospel industry. That's what brought us together. And then, of course, the attraction and falling in love with a beautiful soul and knowing you want to be with someone forever. I've never felt that way before." 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy thinks being a captain is pretty hot

She may have found her ideal partner, but Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn still has to fend off unwanted attention from horny yacht guests. As she told Bravo , it's largely because of her standing on the ship. "It's sexy. It's pretty hot," the Below Deck Mediterranean star said of being a captain. Guests are attracted to a woman at the helm because they don't see it very often, and they instantly want to know everything about her. 

According to a  psychological study about the connection between power and sexual attraction, the two are intrinsically linked. The report found that power heightens sexual attraction. Both male and female high-powered individuals were significantly more attractive to participants than their low-power counterparts, which is great news for a woman captaining a super-yacht for sure. We guess being in a powerful position is just one of many surprising traits men find attractive , and it seems Captain Sandy has doubt about her effect on guests. 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy has a nickname at sea that's very fitting

Considering she beat cancer and came back from a devastating injury (via Women's Health ) to be one of a tiny group of women helming a yacht, it's no wonder Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn is taken as something of a trailblazer in the industry. More than that, though, she's a major bada**. Quite literally, as noted in an interview with Boats , the Below Deck Mediterranean star is known colloquially as "Bada** Captain." 

It's something she leans into 100 percent. Her daily mantra is: "Wake up. Show up. Kick a**. Repeat." With Captain Sandy working consistently in a male-dominated industry, running yachts well above and below 100 feet, fronting a reality show about the industry itself, and frequently battling daunting professional and personal circumstances, the nickname is totally fitting. At its core, "Bada** Captain" showcases this lady's focus on inspiring everyone to follow her lead and push themselves to be the best they can be.  

Below Deck's Captain Sandy didn't always want to be a yacht captain

Watching her work, it's impossible to envision anywhere else Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn could possibly be more at home. And yet, being a yacht captain wasn't her end goal. In fact, it wasn't even a goal — period. As she reminisced with Boats , she "fell into it," admitting, "It's not like I said, 'I have to be a yacht captain.'" 

Growing up in Florida, she was always on the water, even cleaning boats as an early job. The captain of the yacht on which she landed her very first crew position wasn't great, leading her to realize she could do better. After being hired by the owner of a 67-footer, who paid for Captain Sandy to earn her captain's license, she stayed and worked with him for almost ten years. Below Deck came calling in 2015, looking for her to be a part of their new  Mediterranean  spin-off. "I thought, 'Why not?'" she shared. "This show reaches the middle of America and people who knew nothing about charter."

Below Deck's Captain Sandy has an empathetic response to homophobia

One of Below Deck Mediterranean 's most shocking moments saw Mila Kolomeitseva — the first female chef featured on the hit Bravo reality TV franchise — making homophobic comments to other members of Captain Sandy Yawn's crew. Kolomeitseva's issue surrounded her young son seeing "two men kissing each other," which was something she wanted to avoid. When questioned about the incident by Too Fab , Below Deck 's Captain Sandy said she heard it through the grapevine only, rather than being told directly.

As for how she feels about Kolomeitseva's demonstrably homophobic attitude, the no-nonsense leader explained, "People grow up in different countries and are programmed a certain way to think," referring to the chef's Siberian upbringing. Captain Sandy elaborated, "That's her opinion. That doesn't reflect [me]," adding, "She can have her opinion. I don't really care. Doesn't reflect on me. It reflects on her."

The girlfriend of Below Deck's Captain Sandy is everything the star was looking for

Meeting Leah Shafer was fate as far as  Below Deck Mediterranean star Captain Sandy Yawn is concerned. "It was meant to be because I wasn't really looking for it," she told  Too Fab , adding, "I wrote a list of the person I wanted, and she's the list," she explained. 

Their connection was instantaneous, of course, but Below Deck 's Captain Sandy was quick to note that the honeymoon period has continued on regardless. "You know when you meet that person, you know? And then you say, 'Okay, they're on their best behavior.' But she's actually normal, and I wake up happy every day of my life," she explained. 

The Below Deck Med fixture previously told Bravo's Daily Dish , "I want someone who wakes up happy, just is happy to be alive. Like, that's how I wake up every day of my life," and it looks like Shafer certainly fits the bill. 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy almost lost her life to addiction

Aside from a deadly motorcycle accident, which in turn led to a cancer scare, Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn also almost lost her life to addiction, something many people don't understand . Although it's difficult to imagine the inspirational female captain as anything other than a total bada**, she explained to The Cheat Sheet that, particularly as a teenager, she "was a mess." Captain Sandy elaborated on her troubles, admitting, "No matter how much money you have, it's not going to save your life if you are an addict or an alcoholic. And I was a major addict and alcoholic." In fact, she said she was frequently in and out of jail for drunk-driving.

Nowadays, Captain Sandy utilizes those troubled experiences to teach others to stay on the right path. "The only way I can help is to share my story," she said, adding that school was a nightmare for her and self-medicating may even have been a response to her burgeoning same-sex attraction. Her mother was an alcoholic, making Captain Sandy's home life difficult, too. Thankfully, by 25, she was ready to turn her life around. 

Veganism didn't agree with Below Deck's Captain Sandy

Watching her confidently steer the ship on Below Deck Mediterranean , it seems there's nothing Captain Sandy Yawn can't do. And yet, something as relatively simple as going vegan beat the tough-as-nails leader. As she explained to Bravo's The Feast , driving a vessel for the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society made her conscious of what she eats, in particular fish. She's toyed with the idea of going vegan, but it unfortunately didn't work for her.

"Honestly, I try, but I didn't feel well to be honest. I didn't have the energy. Some bodies just aren't cut to go vegan. I tried," she said. These days, it's actually her partner, Leah Shafer, who decides what they eat because Below Deck 's Captain Sandy is so laid-back about it. "I'm not that person [who has to decide]: As a captain, we constantly make decisions. When I'm with someone else, I don't want to make a decision. I don't want to choose," she said. 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy would love to welcome some Real Housewives aboard

Most people watching Real Housewives  couldn't imagine tussling with any of the ladies in the ever-expanding franchise, but Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn would welcome some of the mouthiest broads on-board. In fact, she'd relish having them as guests. When Decider asked which show in particular she'd like to see stars from, Captain Sandy chose New York City . She explained, "New Yorkers have an edge. I love to be challenged by clients. When clients are yes-ing you to death, I know that it's not perfect because that's impossible. I need the client to tell me the truth. They'll tell the truth."

As for who her real-life Bravo favorites are, Captain Sandy advised, "I have to admit that I didn't watch The Real Housewives of Potomac , but after meeting Gizelle Bryant...her vibe. I love NeNe, Dorinda, I love them all. But after spending time with Gizelle, we didn't even really talk a lot, but she was so gracious. She's cool." The Below Deck Mediterranean star confirmed, "She's cool on the show, she's real. ...So I have to say, she's probably won me over."

Below Deck's Captain Sandy doesn't appreciate the Captain Lee comparisons

So-called "stud of the sea" Captain Lee Rosbach is a Below Deck mainstay but if there was anyone who was going to not just follow in his footsteps but blow him out of the water (pun intended), it would be Captain Sandy. Even so, she's not terribly impressed with the comparisons. As she told Decider , "When people compare me to Captain Lee on Twitter, that makes me realize they have no idea who I am, or who he is. It's just what they watch. We have two very different career paths. I was a busy charter captain in the Mediterranean. That wasn't Captain Lee."

Below Deck 's Captain Sandy was quick to note, "I have respect for him. We get along. He's great, he refers to me as kiddo. He's a great guy." Still, she also asserted, "As a woman in this industry, I worked hard to get to where I am. When you're a guy it's an easier climb, right?" She explained that everything has to be 100 percent by the book because mistakes aren't as forgivable for a female captain. 

Below Deck's Captain Sandy sees being a female captain as an advantage

As much as being a woman made it harder for Below Deck 's Captain Sandy Yawn to make her mark (via Decider ), she doesn't necessarily see it as a setback. She told Bravo , "Being a female captain in this industry is challenging and inspiring because I thrive on problem solving. Being a woman in the male dominated yachting world is an advantage due to my ability to multi task while managing the emotions of the crew. I choose not to come from a place of power and control and it really, really works."

She continued, "I prefer to be hands-on, firm, and compassionate. That's how I navigate my leadership." Furthermore, Captain Sandy sees her role as inspirational too, telling The Little White Lie  that this is her time "to inspire other young ladies to jump in and say YES to taking a risk." She continued, "It's so worth it! If you fall short don't give up, just pick yourself up, brush yourself off and go for it again."

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Yes, You Can Really Charter Below Deck Med ’s New Superyacht, Home

Renting or buying Season 7’s new vessel won’t come cheap though.

When Captain Sandy Yawn and her all-new crew set sail on Below Deck Mediterranean Season 7, they’ll be in uncharted territory aboard a new superyacht, Home . While cruising the pristine waters of Malta, Captain Sandy was working for the first time on the 163-foot motor yacht, which Bravo described as a “complex hybrid vessel” that the Below Deck Med vet found to be “more unpredictable to navigate.” As the show’s Season 7 trailer previewed, Home won’t make it through the charters entirely unscathed either: In one clip, Captain Sandy laments that she hit something for the first time in her career, while another scene teases a potential “crashing” incident.

Rest assured that there weren’t any serious accidents because Home is currently available for charter in the Caribbean region at a cost ranging from $245,000 to $273,000 per week , depending on the season. Meanwhile, Home — the first diesel-electric motor yacht to appear on Below Deck — is also listed for sale with an asking price of just over $30.8 million. Per the listings, the superyacht, which Dutch shipyard Heesen built in 2017, sleeps up to 12 guests in six cabins and features contemporary, “Ibiza-style” decor. Among Home ’s many amenities are a large sun deck, jacuzzi, swim platform, air-conditioned gym, and sky lounge.

Home also sleeps up to 10 crew members. In Below Deck Med Season 7 , that includes Captain Sandy, returning Season 6 deckhand Mzi “Zee” Dempers, and newcomers: chief stew Natasha Webb, chef Dave White, bosun Raygan Tyler, stews Natalya Scudder and Kyle Viljoen, and deckhands Storm Smith and Jason Gaskell. Following her involvement in Hannah Ferrier’s mid-Season 5 firing, Malia White cited a scooter accident and pending exams — not fan backlash — as her reasons for not returning for Season 7. (“It’s not that I might never come back to the show,” Malia told Showbiz Cheat Sheet in May. “I’m just not on the next season.”)

Season 7’s “new boat with new department heads” might bring Captain Sandy some challenges during her “first time ever in Malta,” but she’s naturally ready to face them all head-on. The network also told viewers to expect “outrageous costumes, wild nights out, and some major inter-departmental drama,” which “doesn’t even cover what the charter guests are going to bring in the new season.”

As always, expect plenty of romance at sea, too. As Bravo’s first look teased, “boatmances” will be a major topic of conversation this season, including flirtations between Natalya and Storm, as well as several questions about the true nature of Natasha and Dave’s relationship. There could even be a fling between a crew member and a charter guest, too. Though Bravo is premiering the series on July 11, Peacock subscribers can access new Below Deck Med Season 7 episodes a week early beginning July 4.

Fans can also experience Home for themselves off-screen — but it will cost way more than their monthly cable bills.

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I lived ‘Below Deck’ on a luxury yacht — here’s what you need to know

Tahiti, St. Thomas and the French Riviera — I’ve yachted in all of these exotic locales, albeit from the comfort of my couch. And, millions of Americans are in the same boat.

In 2013, “Below Deck,” introduced the masses to the most glamorous mode of traveling: yachting. Since then, it’s become a Bravo mainstay with Season 9 of “Below Deck Mediterranean’’ premiering in June.

But how real is the reality show? I spent five nights on a yacht in Croatia to find out.

A tip on tipping

My suitcase wasn’t bursting with Benjamins. An agency at your final destination provides cash for the crew’s tip money. While you’re expected to tip $30,000 for a two-night cruise on “Below Deck,” in real life you only have to tip 10% to 15% of your charter fee. That’s about $10,000 for a two-night cruise on a 180-foot charter yacht like Mustique (from $250,000 a week), which stars in the new season.

According to Zvonimir Androi, president of the yacht charter company Via Croatia, more often than not, the tip comes from what’s left over after provisioning.

So, shun the Dom Pérignon and skip the beluga caviar, and you’ll have money to spare.

What’s up, dock?

In real life, “Below Deck’s” favorite commercial-break cliff-hanger isn’t nearly as dramatic. Docking in our yacht, Via Croatia’s five-cabin, 100-foot Adriatic Escape (from $52,800 a week), was breezy.

I asked the crew if they hated setting up the slide — a tortuous, Herculean task if you believe what you see on TV.

“It’s not that bad,” a twentysomething Croatian deckhand, as cute as his on-screen counterparts, told me. “That said, we’re definitely not sad if you don’t ask for it.”

Play it cool

Despite being served meat on more than one occasion, my vegetarian co-guests on board weren’t divas when it came to cuisine — a major source of chef-related stress on the show.

Tantrums aren’t the norm Barbie Pascual, the “Below Deck” stewardess famous for putting up with former “RHONY” star Jill Zarin’s demands for the perfect Diet Coke in the “Real Housewives of Grenada” episode, tells me. “Guests know they are being filmed so their reactions are more extreme than they’d be if the cameras weren’t around,” she says.

Pascual’s biggest tip for first-time yachters? Don’t go skinny dipping, like they do on the show, after dark.

“People forget about currents, sharks, etc.,” she says. “Jumping in the water should always be with the captain’s consent!”

Our humorless Croatian yacht captain was a far cry from “Below Deck Mediterranean’s” affable Captain Sandy Yawn. I think we only saw him twice over the course of four days, and he definitely didn’t join us for dinner.

That was fine by us because the stews and deckhands were always handy with anything we needed — including at chat.

Asking for it

“No” is a word you’ll never hear on a yacht, unless there is a safety issue, Pascual says.

While we didn’t ask our crew to do a striptease or decorate for ‘70s night (two recurring requests on the show), out-there demands aren’t out of the question, as long as you’re willing to pay for it.

For example, Via Croatia is currently retrofitting one of its multimillion-dollar superyachts for an upcoming charter booked by a multigenerational Jewish family from Florida.

“In addition to paying the charter fee, the client is literally buying everything new: pots, pans, silverware, etc.” said Androi. “They’re even spending $30,000 on a new tender for the elderly mother-in-law.”

Now, I’m no reality show producer, but a picky primary trying to keep his wife, her elderly mom and their kosher kids happy at sea has the makings of an Emmy Award-winning episode.

Yachting on a budget

Charters are cheapest at the beginning and end of a destination’s season. Via Croatia’s yuppiest yacht, the 160-foot, 12-cabin Agape Rose , fetches $200,000 a week in July and August. But it’s just $164,000 a week in April and October. Divide that by 24 of your closest friends and family and it’s just $6,800 a person.

If that’s still too much, consider booking a yacht club suite on one of MSC Cruises ’ Mediterranean voyages.

Sure, you’ll be on a cruise liner, but for $1,659 a person you’ll be treated to seven nights of private butler service with a private pool and restaurant that the pleb passengers don’t even know exists.

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Welcome to the Most Expensive Yacht in 'Below Deck' History

Updated June 5 2020, 1:07 p.m. ET

Below Deck Mediterranean returns to Bravo for its fifth season which undoubtedly will have all the drama and mayhem viewers have come to expect and love from the show. This season, Captain Sandy and her crew are manning the biggest and most luxurious boat the show has ever seen.

To drum up excitement for the new season, Bravo recently released a personalized virtual tour of the yacht , led by Captain Sandy and new bosun, Malia White. The superyacht, which measures a staggering 56.2 meters, left audiences stunned. 

Featuring sumptuous interiors, state-of-the-art deck toys, and even a waterfall-equipped jacuzzi, The Wellington has already captured the imaginations of fans before the new season has even aired. But what wasn’t included in the tour was exactly how much it costs to charter a vessel as grand as The Wellington. 

Keep scrolling to find out everything you need to know about how much it costs to get on a Below Deck Mediterranean yacht.

How much does it cost to charter The Wellington?

The Wellington, originally named The Wellesley, is the largest yacht ever featured on any of the Below Deck franchises. It's also the largest Captain Sandy has ever been at the helm of. 

The yacht is listed on Charter World for a cool €220,000 (around $243,000) per week, comes fully staffed, and is able to accommodate up to 12 guests. 

If you’re thinking that’s a number within reach, keep in mind that the price unfortunately doesn’t include expenses like food and drinks, fuel costs, docking fees, and taxes.

The Wellington boasts a 1920s theme and luxe interiors that include a club lounge and a bespoke humidor, complete with a selection of cigars and top-shelf whiskeys. Massive bedrooms are accompanied by walk-in closets and each bathroom is made with a different type of marble. 

This yacht also has a VIP room that includes panoramic windows and a skylight that allows guests to sleep under a view of the stars.

While the luxuries of The Wellington certainly don’t come cheap in real life, charter guests that appear on the show do enjoy a bit of a discount to charter the yacht. 

Guests usually pay around half of the listed price for a three-day charter, which includes being pampered and having their every whim indulged by the ready-to-please crew.

The most expensive yacht on 'Below Deck' history also means bigger tips than we've seen before.

As it’s been pointed out by Below Deck creator Mark Cronin , despite getting the discount, charter guests are still paying out of their own pocket to be on the show. Guests also are responsible for the cash tip that they customarily leave for the crew at the end of every charter, but they can decide what that tip will be based on their experience onboard the yacht. 

Gratuity is usually 15 to 30 percent of the non-discounted rate for chartering a yacht like this, which for The Wellington works out to around €33,000 to €66,000 ($36,537 to $73,146). After a total of 12 seasons of the Below Deck franchise, a tip of this amount is absolutely unheard of. 

But on a boat where the bedsheets cost €2,000 ($2,200) a pop, you get what you pay for. 

Season 5 of Below Deck Mediterranean premieres Monday, June 1 at 9 p.m. on Bravo.

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Latest Below Deck News and Updates

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Captain Sandy Yawn Just Revealed Her Next Unexpected Career Move

After helping out the St. David crew on  Below Deck  Season 10, Captain Sandy is taking on a totally new project.

Captain Sandy Yawn  is giving back. 

How to Watch

Watch Below Deck Mediterranean  on Mondays at 9/8c and next day on  Peacock . Catch up on the Bravo app . 

The  Below Deck Mediterranean  captain, who, most recently, temporarily took over for Captain Lee Rosbach while he dealt with health issues on  Below Deck   Season 10, revealed that her next career move is starting a charitable organization that is "in the spirit of supporting and empowering women."

"I'm excited to announce Captain Sandy's Charities," she said in an Instagram video in honor of International Women's Day on March 8. "I am steadfast in providing equitable access to successful programs that provide direct services, meaningful opportunities, and lifechanging options, with a particular focus on low-income and at-risk populations."

She added that the organization is centered around "maritime and environmental education and employment opportunities," before further elaborating on the goal of the charity in an Instagram caption.

"I want to inform young people about the advantages of entering the maritime/yachting industry, regardless of completing high school or college," she wrote about the mission of Captain Sandy's Charities.

Captain Sandy isn't the only  Below Deck Med  yachtie who has recently had exciting career news to share. Back in late January, Malia White, who last appeared in a Bosun role on Season 6, confirmed that she had passed an examination to become an Officer of the Watch .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Northrop & Johnson | Yacht Sales | Yacht Charter (@northropandjohnson)

Sandy was one of many Bravolebrities who congratulated Malia on the milestone accomplishment in the comments section. Several weeks later, the Officer of the Watch revealed that she's on great terms with her former captain. In fact, Captain Sandy is one of the main reasons why Malia has continued to pursue a career in the yachting industry.

"I love Captain Sandy. I love her, absolutely," Malia said on an episode of her podcast,  Total Ship Show , about the respect she held for the female captain. I admire her — she’s what made me want to get in the industry, like stick in it."

Watch  Below Deck Mediterranean  on  Peacock  and the  Bravo app .

• Lee Rosbach
• Malia White

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Ranking Every ‘Below Deck’ Show From Most to Least Memorable: Mediterranean, Adventure and More

Bravo’s Below Deck series has inspired several spinoffs — but not every one has left an impression.

Below Deck , which debuted on Bravo in 2013, introduced viewers to various crew members who reside and work on a superyacht during charter season. The original series quickly became a major success for the network, spawning spinoffs that include Below Deck Mediterranean, Below Deck Sailing Yacht, Below Deck Down Under and Below Deck Adventure .

The show has since become an example of Bravo’s rare all-year long programming with a Below Deck series airing new episodes at any given moment. While most of the cast has changed from season to season, viewers have gotten invested in some of the mainstays , which are usually the captains and the chief stews or bosuns.

However, not every show has stuck with fans the exact same way. Certain iterations didn’t last longer than a season while others have become more memorable than the OG Below Deck show.

Related: A Guide to 'Below Deck' and Its Many Spinoffs

Keep scrolling to see Us ‘ ranking of the Below Deck shows — in order from most to least memorable.

1) ‘Below Deck Mediterranean’

When some of Us weren’t looking, Below Deck Mediterranean surprisingly became the backbone of the franchise that earned it first place on this list . A large part of that is Captain Sandy Yawn , who for better or for worse has gotten viewers reinvigorated about Below Deck . It takes a special kind of captain to not always make decisions everyone likes but that keeps fans coming back for more.

Sandy’s priority is being a good captain but somewhere along the way she became Below Deck gold. Everything else is just icing on the cake when Sandy is at the center of every season in the Mediterranean.

2) ‘Below Deck’

The original show paved the way for every other iteration to find its place on Bravo. Without Below Deck — and Captain Lee Rosbach — fans wouldn’t know just how compelling drama on the high seas can actually be.

One reason why Below Deck isn’t at the very top is tied to the show’s decision to fix what wasn’t broken. Captain Lee was the face of the franchise — so it wasn’t easy to say goodbye when he was replaced following a decade on Below Deck . The switch came several seasons after chief stew Kate Chastain left and it was too much change at once for some of Us .

Related: A Guide to Below Deck' Chief Stews: From Kate Chastain to Hannah Ferrier

3) ‘below deck sailing yacht’.

Speaking of shows overshadowed by controversy, Below Deck Sailing Yacht had it all when it originally premiered on Bravo in 2020 . Paternity scandals, love triangles and Below Deck alums that overstayed their welcome by making the audience turn on them again.

Captain Glenn Shephard confidently steered Below Deck Sailing Yacht into a successful future but other factors ultimately got in the way.

First of all, Daisy Kelliher ‘s messy feelings for Colin Macrae and Gary King sounded like good reality TV on paper but it wasn’t as interesting on screen. The trio actually made it harder to come back around each week because it was exhausting to see them hash out their confusing issues.

Season 4 wrapped up with the promise of more episodes before Gary made headlines for his sexual misconduct scandal. He has maintained his innocence and no official statement has been given on the future of the show but Below Deck Sailing Yacht has yet to release any news about another season since the drama.

4) ‘Below Deck Down Under’

The spinoff set in Australia should have been a slam dunk with Bravo’s favorite hottie Captain Jason Chambers and fan-favorite chief stew Aesha Scott by his side. However, Below Deck Down Under initially struggled because it was premiering on Peacock instead of Bravo meaning viewers didn’t know to look for a new show.

Season 2 was what put Below Deck Down Under on the map but not for the reason anyone was hoping. A shocking consent scandal halfway through the season resulted in Luke Jones and Laura Bileskaline getting fired from the boat , which Below Deck Down Under was applauded for as new episodes continued to cover the aftermath.

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Despite the fact that Jason and Aesha received praise for how they handled the situation , there has been no news about the show’s future. It is possible that the drama overshadowed the show itself — and not in a good way.

Related: A Guide to Every Captain in the 'Below Deck' Franchise: From Lee to Sandy

5) ‘below deck adventure’.

The fourth spinoff was meant to be the most action-packed as guests signed up for thrill-seeking activities along the Norwegian Fjords. After premiering in November 2022, Below Deck Adventure failed to find an audience week to week and subsequently faded out of everyone’s mind.

Bravo never announced the show’s cancellation but it’s probably safe to assume that not many fans were asking for a status update. Instead, Captain Kerry Titheradge was moved to Below Deck and everyone forgot the first failed Below Deck spinoff series.

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This below deck mediterranean star is shocked captain sandy almost fired them after allegedly faking poor performance.

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• Chef Jono on Below Deck Med faces a potential firing for multiple mistakes, including serving a guest raw fish they're allergic to.
• Despite improvements, Chef Jono may still be on thin ice as the midseason trailer hints at a grave error that could cost him his job.
• While some accused Jono of faking his poor performance, it seems he genuinely struggled, with Captain Sandy considering firing him.

Some of Below Deck Mediterranean season 9’s yachties have been accused of faking their poor performances for dama, but one cast member was shocked to find out that Captain Sandy Yawn was considering firing him for his mistakes . With Below Deck Mediterranean season 9 sailing through its midway point, there have been plenty of moments where the yachties have been less-than-competent at their jobs. Traditionally, the crew learns from the mistakes they make on board. Some Below Deck Med crew members have been accused of faking their poor performances, having made some excruciating errors that just don’t seem believable.

Below Deck Med 's Chef Johnathan Shillingford shared that he was shocked to see how close he was to being fired.

Despite knowing that he made some serious errors in his first few charters, Chef Johnathan Shillingford shared that he was shocked to see how close he was to being fired in the early episodes of Below Deck Mediterranean. Speaking with Us Weekly , Johnathan explained, “I didn’t feel that during the show. I didn’t know that that was her position. I didn’t know that there was a backup chef.” While he wasn’t originally aware that he’d been close to being let go, Jono revealed that “regardless of what’s been said, I maintain that it was an honor working with her.”

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Could Chef Johnathan Shillingford Still Be Fired?

His poor performance is being teased again.

While Chef Jono has been doing better aboard Mustique after struggling in the initial episodes of the season, the Below Deck Mediterranean season 9 midseason trailer revealed that he may not be in the clear just yet. While Jono has been doing a better job at taking guests’ dietary needs and preferences into consideration, it appears he may make a major mistake in an upcoming episode by serving a guest raw fish, which they’re highly allergic to. With Captain Sandy having already prepared to fire Chef Jono, it’s possible his time aboard Mustique could end soon.

With Below Deck Mediterranean season 9 crossing past the midway point of the season, Chef Jono has been improving with each charter, but a dire mistake could easily cost him his job. While there's been some hope that Jono can get his act together, it’s likely that if he does serve a charter guest a life-threatening meal, Captain Sandy will have no choice but to take action. Even with her desire to keep her crew intact, Captain Sandy will likely fire Chef Jono if he makes such a grave error . Hopefully, her Below Deck replacement chef is still waiting.

Although there are only a handful of Below Deck Mediterranean season 9 episodes left, the season still has quite a few big moments to get through, including the potential firing of Chef Jono . Even though his performance has been improving enough to keep him safe, things could change on a dime. While earlier in the season, it seemed like he was faking his poor performance to stir up more drama, it feels clear that the chef was struggling and likely just had some off-kilter charters rather than genuinely faking his Below Deck Mediterranean performance.

Below Deck Mediterranean airs Mondays at 9 p.m. EDT on Bravo.

Source: Us Weekly

Below Deck Mediterranean

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Below Deck Mediterranean is a Bravo reality television series that follows a crew that works aboard a gigantic superyacht during the busy season. The show highlights the challenges of the crew as they serve their high-end clientele. Each season tackles new locations, such as Greece, Croatia, Italy, and France, with some repeating.

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EXCLUSIVE: Below Deck Mediterranean Season 7 in Malta onboard superyacht HOME

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By Editorial Team   28 October 2021

Bravo's much-beloved maritime hit has been seen filming in Malta for season 7 of Below Deck Mediterranean, with crew members spotted aboard superyacht HOME  and our exclusive superyacht data tracking her whereabouts confirms that she will be the new superyacht for this upcoming season.

Fans of the extremely popular reality TV show, which chronicles the lives of crew members working aboard a superyacht, will be extremely happy to hear the long-standing Captain will be back at the helm in the eagerly awaited new season.

Photos appear to confirm that fan favorite Captain Sandy will be returning to our screens as will Courtney Veale and Mzi "Zee" Dempers. It's expected season 7 will be aired in May 2022, but no official announcement has yet been made regarding its release nor the yacht and crew members.

Superyacht HOME in Below Deck Mediterranean Season 7

This marks the first time superyacht HOME appears in the show, following the appearance of elegant charter yacht LADY MICHELLE in season 6. The 180-foot Benetti cruised Croatia's sunkissed coastline and myriad islands while the show's many antics took place on her decks.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)

49m (160ft) superyacht HOME is a multi-award-winning vessel that can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests across 6 palatial staterooms. First launched in 2017, she features beautifully proportioned decks for exquisite indoor/outdoor living and boasts a whole raft of charter-focused amenities that will enthrall guests. 

Our tracking data shows charter yacht HOME has primarily been docked in the stunning sun-dappled Valletta harbour overlooking the majestic Fort St.Angelo, but has dropped anchor in the serene Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay and Xemxija Bay too.

From her convivial sundeck setup replete with Jacuzzi and glowing cocktail bar, to her panoramic sky lounge and state-of-the-art water toys, she certainly has the wow factor required for Below Deck Mediterranean.

Yacht rentals in Malta

A  yacht rental in Malta beckons with balmy temperatures, tranquil landscapes and its sun-drenched, UNESCO- recognised centre steeped in history. Combined with eye-poppingly beautiful island hopping to nearby sister isles of Gozo and Comino, guests will adore this diminutive destination for a sunny escape.

To discover more about chartering one of the yachts featured in Below Deck Mediterranean, get in touch with your chosen yacht rental broker .

Featured charter yachts in Below Deck Mediterranean:

55m Benetti 2003 / 2024

56m Oceanco 1993 / 2016

47m Heesen 2006 / 2013

54m Turquoise Yachts 2006 / 2016

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Below Deck Yachts

If you’ve never seen the show, it follows the crew of a luxury yacht during peak “charter season.” The original Below Deck, for example, showed off the glitz and glamour of the Caribbean, especially around St. Thomas, the British Virgin Islands, and the Bahamas. The Mediterranean spin-off, on the other hand, highlights European hotspots, including Italy, Spain and Croatia.

The show is undeniably a ton of fun. From the drama in the crew quarters, to the incredible beaches, the show provides an entertaining look behind the curtain.

Yet, the chartered superyachts are the real stars of the show. Each season, Below Deck features a truly stunning super yacht. All of them measure over 150 feet and are decked out in opulent features, staterooms and amenities. And here’s something you might not know: The majority of the Below Deck yachts are available for charter!

Below Deck Charter Yachts

Through five seasons, Below Deck has featured some of the most magnificent super yachts in the world. Some of the yachts have changed ownership since the show, been renamed, or have undergone a refitting. Yet, most look like they did from the show.

But beyond the name and maybe a few changes to the interior, there aren’t many differences. All of the water toys, Jacuzzis and stunning outdoor dining areas are what you’ll find on the yachts available for charter! So which charter yachts are available?

Here’s a more detailed look at the yachts featured on the original Below Deck:

Honor – Season 1

Honor (which is now LUMIERE) kicked off the first season, and she put on a dazzling display. The yacht, originally built by Benetti in 1999, is one of the largest yachts ever featured on the show, and it was actually booked for a five-week charter for filming.

HONOR benefited from the new-found fame of the show. She sold after it aired for nearly $15 million, and the new owners completely refit her interiors and renamed the boat. Today, LUMIERE is a masterpiece of nautical engineering.

She features luxurious accommodations for up to 12 guests and an abundance of deck space, including a sprawling sun deck. The yacht also features a wide array of water toys (the slide was a struggle for the crew all season!).

Ohana – Season 2

Season 2 took the crew on a tour of the British Virgin Islands and featured some familiar faces. Captain Lee, Chef Ben, and Bosun Eddie were back, much to the pleasure of fans. Yet, the yacht was completely different.

OHANA (real name is RHINO) was featured on the second season, a stunning 154-footer, with beautiful decks, a horseshoe outdoor bar, and a stunning outdoor sun deck. After the show aired in 2014, Ohana underwent an extensive retrofit.

She now features an updated interior with a decidedly modern, airy vibe, as well as new hardware, including a state-of-the-art stabilization system.

Eros – Season 3

EROS took centerstage in Season 3, and the 161-foot yacht, originally built for the founder of Tim Hortons, was one of the most luxurious featured on the show. The beautiful tri-deck, featured a stately saloon, a sky lounge Jacuzzi, and sleek exterior styling.

EROS – which was sold prior to the third season – has since been renamed and was also remodeled. She’s now known as Mustang Sally, and unfortunately, this is one of the few Below Deck charter yachts that’s not available for charter.

Valor – Seasons 4 & 5

The stately VALOR was a fan favorite in Season 4 and 5. Built in 1990 by Dutch-based Feadship, the 154-foot VALOR featured a sprawling aft deck, perfect for sunset dinners and afternoon lounges. Plus, the ship – when featured on the show – had a range of water toys, including dual jet skis and a sleek, boutique hotel-inspired interior.

Like Mustang Sally, VALOR – which is now known as simply BG – isn’t available for charter. Yet, fans will always remember all the drama that took place on board.

Below Deck Mediterranean Yachts

Below Deck Mediterranean premiered in 2016, and through three seasons, the show has featured some of the Med’s best yachts. All of the yachts from the Mediterranean spin-off are available for charter, exactly how you see them on the show.

Ionian Princess – Season 1

Season 1 of Below Deck Mediterranean launched with a bang, featuring one of the strongest premieres for the franchise. Although there was plenty of drama throughout the season as the crew traveled around Greece, the beauty of IONIAN PRINCESS couldn’t be missed. The ship, which was originally built in the U.S. in 2005, featured a sleek, streamlined tri-deck design and gorgeous interiors.

The sun deck – where guests partied all season long – is one of the yacht’s star attractions, featuring a Jacuzzi with world-class views. Her interior, though, is one of the most stunning, featuring a chic design. The yacht also includes six cabins with accommodations for up to 12 guests.

Sirocco – Season 2

Season 2 took the crew to Croatia, aboard SIROCCO. The Dutch-built yacht originally launched in 2006, and thanks to its unique two-tone, third-deck exterior, she was remembered for her striking exterior. All of the yacht’s features made great TV. From her incredible sun deck, to the African chic interior, and all of the many water toys, SIROCCO’s impressive design and amenities stood out.

Today, she’s available for charter throughout the Mediterranean. A few unique features include a sun deck gym, an alfresco party deck, a theatre, and a wide array of water toys.

Talisman Maiton – Season 3

Named for an island in Thailand, TAILSMAN MAITON is a stunning tri-deck that cruises the pristine waters of Italy and all of the Mediterranean. The largest to ever be featured on the show, TAILSMAN is truly incredible.

The yacht accommodates 12 guests, in 6 beautifully appointed rooms. There’s a master suite, as well as 1 VIP stateroom, and four smaller cabins. The yacht was built in 2006, but most recently refit in 2016 with a timeless Art Deco aesthetic. The yacht also features a sundeck spa pool with a beautiful bar, a full-service gym, and an observation deck with panoramic views.

How Long Are the Below Deck Charters?

Here’s a little-known secret about Below Deck: The “charter season” on the show is just a few weeks. In fact, the yachts are actually booked for about six weeks, and their regular crews are sent home. In other words, the charters on Below Deck are actually a charter within a charter!

Each of the Below Deck charters last just a few days, and each episode features new charter guests.

Below Deck Yacht Rental Costs

Hiring a yacht from Below Deck isn’t cheap. The majority cost in the neighborhood of $150,000 per week. Yet, that charter rate doesn’t include expenses, including fuel, dockage fees, and taxes.

Yet, for that price, you’ll get a truly world-class experience. The crews of each of these yachts provide first-class service and all of the boats are fully loaded with amenities. There’s nothing quite like it in the world. And by hiring one of these superyachts, you’ll also have bragging rights for chartering a yacht featured on a TV show!

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