Bravo’s “Below Deck” first set sail in 2013, inviting viewers to watch the lives of crew members during a charter season for a superyacht—and all the drama that unfolds. Created by longtime reality TV executive producer Mark Cronin (“The Surreal Life,” “Flavor of Love”), the hit show is currently on its 12th season and has inspired four spinoffs: “Below Deck Mediterranean,” “Below Deck Sailing Yacht,” “Below Deck Down Under,” and “Below Deck Adventure.”
“Below Deck” Season 13 hasn’t officially been announced, but it’s likely that this high-seas drama will continue to rock the Bravo boat for many years to come. Not to mention, “Below Deck Mediterranean” and “Below Deck Down Under” have been renewed for new seasons. Ready to become part of the “Below Deck” family? Here’s how Bravo casts its infamous crew members and where you can apply today.
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Each season, the cast of crew members boards a yacht to serve the elite passengers—like former “Real Housewives” or MLB players—who’ve chartered the vessel. The one constant (besides the drama) is the captain for each superyacht. Captain Lee Rosbach served as the commander for “Below Deck” up until the show’s 10th season in 2023. Kerry Titheradge has since taken over, with Sandy Yawn serving as captain for “Below Deck Mediterranean,” Glenn Shephard for “Below Deck Sailing Yacht,” and Jason Chambers for “Below Deck Down Under.” Titheradge also served as commander for “Below Deck Adventure” until it was canceled after one season.
With demanding passengers in tow, the show’s real drama lies in the collision of personal and professional lives among the cast who live and work aboard the boat. From Antigua to St. Kitts, the crew sails across the globe, catering to their clients’ every whim while butting heads (and maybe finding love) behind the scenes. Between the high pressure and close quarters, it’s no surprise that crew members clash throughout the season. And all those tensions are put to the test when the cast regroups for the end-of-season reunion, hosted by none other than Andy Cohen.
Throughout its 12 seasons, “Below Deck” has featured an array of crew members ranging from captains, first officers, and bosuns to chief stewards, chefs, and second and first stews. Here are the most popular cast members from “Below Deck”:
- Lee Rosbach, captain, Seasons 1–10
- Kate Chastain, chief stew, Seasons 2–7
- Ben Robinson, chef, Seasons 1–4
- Fraser Olender, second stew, Season 9; chief stew, Seasons 10–12
- Eddie Lucas, deckhand, Season 1; bosun, Seasons 2–3; first officer, Seasons 8–9
- Rachel Hargrove, chef, Seasons 8–11
- Ashton Pienaar, deckhand, Season 6; bosun, Season 7
- Rhylee Gerber, deckhand, Seasons 6–7
- Kerry Titherage, captain, Seasons 11–12
“Below Deck” has worked with multiple CDs over the years, including Erika Landin (“MasterChef Junior”), Duffy Rich (“The F Word”), Tracy Sinclair (“Vanderpump Villa”), Scott Douglas Goldstein (“Minute to Win It”), and Gladys Fattorini (“The Marriage Ref”). For tips on how to secure your place on the high seas, here’s everything you’ll need to know about getting cast on reality TV.
Although reality series don’t require acting talent in most cases, developing your onscreen presence can give you an advantage. Our guides provide insight into what takes place during the casting process and how you can prepare for your chance at the spotlight:
- How to Get on Reality TV
- A CD on What to Know About Getting Cast on a Reality Competition Show
- What Top Reality Show Casting Directors Really Look For
Those interested in being a yachtie on “Below Deck” can submit an application here to be considered. Keep in mind that applicants must be 21 years or older, have already secured the proper licences and certifications (such as completing the STCW basic training course), and have the appropriate visa to work in that season’s filming location.
As for being a charter guest on “Below Deck,” the series previously turned to Backstage to find passengers. We suggest keeping an eye on our catalogue of reality TV listings or Bravo’s casting page for the latest updates. At this time, for those interested in being a charter guest for “Below Deck Mediterranean,” Bravo recommends emailing belowdeck.casting@51minds.com.
For more active casting calls, these roundups will keep you afloat:
Our casting directory pages might also come in handy since they offer access to all the latest listings as they become available:
While Rosbach said Bravo cast him “by accident,” those who want to make it on “Below Deck” now need to stand out in the audition process.
Some reality shows require traditional auditions, but for “Below Deck,” those who make it in front of the camera are individuals who have submitted a memorable self-tape or cultivated an engaging online presence (they also even have some yachting experience). If you’re hoping to get recognized by reality TV producers, these guides have you covered:
- How to Nail a Reality TV Audition According to a CD
- A Casting Director’s 12 Rules for the Perfect Self-Tape
- How to Improve Your Social Media Presence