In July 2013, Bravo fans’ horizons were expanded when the network introduced its nautical series, Below Deck. Until then, we had no idea that you could make a living out of being a yachtie, which took you to exotic locations and gave you some great cash tips. At its start, it consisted of wide-eyed young adults who wanted a bit of escapism from their everyday lives. Many were running away from breakups or family situations or couldn’t stay any longer in their small town. Below Deck stood out because it brought not only female viewership but male viewership as well.
Bravo camera’s only job was to follow the crew in and out of the small, windy corridors. Most of the time, there was plenty of drama to go around, and some even had to walk the plank (i.e., be sent packing.) Undoubtedly, there were more than one messy boatmances that ended in tears. But the end of charter feeling always bailed the stars out as they walked away a little wiser and richer for their troubles.
It isn’t surprising that Below Deck stars make way less than their other Bravo counterparts. But this could be because they also have a salary from the boat. But, oddly, they are expected to commit to filming a full series and complete all their tasks on board. Bravo has maximized the series’ success and even created multiple spinoffs, including Below Deck Mediterranean in 2015, Below Deck Sailing Yacht in 2020, and Below Deck Down Under in 2022.
The rookies
Thanks to Crew Finder, I have researched what we can estimate each person makes within their role. For those working as deckhands like Sunny Marquis, she could easily bring home $60,000 a year. A boson on a yacht the size of the St. David could also pocket $66,000. No wonder Ben Willoughby wanted Jared Woodin’s job! Chef Anthony Iracane is new to the series but has four years of experience in yachting. The French-born chef also has more years behind the skillet. Someone of his skill set would be paid around $85,000 a year. It is important to note that the Below Deck crew doesn’t work a full charter season when filming, so hypothetically, they could move on to another boat and earn even more.
The big honchos
Meanwhile, a chief stew like Fraser Olender could be taking home $84,000 a year. Honestly, the man should get paid more after chartering guests like Jill Zarin. The head of the boat, Captain Kerry Titheradge, is, of course, the highest earner with the most responsibility. To captain a vessel of that size, Captain Kerry would be looking to be compensated at $228,000 annually.
Now, when it comes to the crew’s Bravo paycheck, Business Insider has reported that they receive a small fee for their participation. Earlier, Below Deck cast members argued that they were severely underpaid. The fee is said to be around $5,000 to $6,000 a month. The math doesn’t math here for me since Below Deck has always been a top-rated show that brings in the viewers.
A former stew, Ashley Marti, who appeared on Season 3 of Below Deck Sailing Yacht, told the outlet, “We’re on TV, but technically, we’re the help,” she said. “We don’t get the same treatment.” The proof is in the pudding since some of the Real Housewives can get one million per season. And stars on Southern Charm can get $25,000 per episode.
Their side hustles
Like many other Bravo stars, some of the Below Deck crew also have a few side hustles to keep their pockets full. Barbie Pascual owns her own table decor company, Beyond the Table By Barbie. Captain Terry owns his own business called Yachting Concepts. He also participates in Cameo and charges $99 for a personal video. Some other Below Deck franchise stars, like Kate Chastain, have gone on to appear on other NBC shows, too. Each Below Deck star is clearly working hard for their money, but should they maybe earn more? I think so!
TELL US – ARE YOU SHOCKED BY THESE SALARIES?