Below Deck Down Under Season 3: A New Voyage of Drama and Romance
The third season of Below Deck Down Under has officially set sail, and it’s wasting no time diving into the drama, romance, and stunning scenery that fans of the show have come to love. Captain Jason Chambers is back at the helm, guiding the 60-meter super yacht Katina through the breathtaking waters of the Seychelles, a location Chambers himself describes as a “bucket list” destination. The crystalline waters, lush beaches, and vibrant marine life of the Seychelles provide the perfect backdrop for both relaxation andrama, setting the stage for a season filled with tension, unexpected alliances, and even a little love.
This season, Chambers is joined by a mix of familiar and fresh faces. Chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph and Deckhand Harry Van Vliet return from Season 2, bringing their expertise and charisma to the table. However, there’s a notable absence: franchise veteran Aesha Scott, who has been replaced by Lara Rigby as the new Chief Stew. While Rigby comes with a wealth of experience, it’s clear that her no-nonsense attitude and high standards may rub some of her crewmates the wrong way. One of the most anticipated dynamics this season is the relationship between Rigby and Tzarina, who previously worked together on another vessel. Despite Chambers’ initial optimism—“It’s going to be one big happy family”—it quickly becomes apparent that the two women have unresolved tension, which threatens to boil over in the kitchen and beyond.
The Katina itself is a marvel, offering more space and luxury than any vessel in the franchise’s history. However, its size and complexity bring their own set of challenges. One of the most notable—and problematic—features is the yacht’s elevator, which Chambers admits became the season’s “Achilles heel.”rpmblems with the elevator added extra pressure on the interior team, forcing them to work harder to keep up with guest demands. Meanwhile, the Deck team, led by new Bosun Wihan, had its own set of hurdles, from communication issues to managing the physical demands of the job.
Chambers, ever the observant captain, noticed the tension early on, particularly in the galley, where Tzarina and her sous chef, Anthony Bird, struggled to work together. “It didn’t take long to see those two were not going to get on,” Chambers remarked during an interview with Decider. Despite the challenges, there were moments of camaraderie and even romance. In fact, Chambers affectionately dubbed the Katina the “Love Boat” at one point, as crew members formed connections and relationships that added an extra layer of drama to the season.
One of the most surprising moments of the season premiere came when Lara broke down during breakfast service, revealing just how overwhelmed she felt. Chambers admitted that he didn’t notice her struggles at the time, but the show’s unique format allowed him—and viewers—to see the full picture later on. “That’s the best thing about the show,” he said. “I don’t really see a lot of the drama until you all see it every Monday.” This season, it’s clear that relationships—both professional and personal—will take center stage, creating plenty of opportunities for conflict and connection alike.
As the season progresses, fans can expect even more twists and turns, from kitchen clashes to blossoming boatmances. Chambers hinted that the tension in the galley will come to a head, with Tzarina and Anthony’s rocky relationship being a major storyline. Meanwhile, the “Love Boat” vibes will continue, as crew members navigate the ups and downs of working—and living—together in one of the most beautiful settings on Earth. With its mix of stunning scenery, engaging characters, and playbook drama, Below Deck Down Under Season 3 is shaping up to be a must-watch for both longtime fans and newcomers.
