Below Deck Down Under Season 3 Episode 1 Recap & Explained: New crew, big egos, & a Yacht like no Other

Below Deck Down Under is back! Season three kicks off with an exciting new location, a massive new yacht, and plenty of drama brewing before the first charter even begins. Captain Jason Chambers returns to lead the crew, joined by a mix of new and familiar faces—including chef Tzarina and deckhand Harry. But with tensions already running high, it’s clear that this season won’t be smooth sailing.

A new Season, a new Destination

For the first time, Below Deck Down Under leaves Australia behind and heads to the stunning Seychelles. The crew will be working aboard the Katina, the largest yacht in the Below Deck franchise, complete with a piano, an elevator, and plenty of space for luxury. While Captain Jason and chef Tzarina return, nearly everyone else is new, including chief stew Lara, bosun Wihan, and sous-chef Anthony.

Tzarina is excited to see Lara again, but their past working relationship is complicated. “We are much better as off-the-boat friends,” Tzarina admits. Meanwhile, Anthony’s introduction is rocky—he seems defensive when Tzarina asks about his strengths and weaknesses, and she quickly spots a red flag. “I don’t do egos,” she warns.

Tension Builds Before the First Charter

The deck crew also struggles to find its rhythm. Lead deckhand Johnny tries to assert himself, asking bosun Wihan for more independence. But Wihan isn’t on board with that mindset, preferring a strong team dynamic. Meanwhile, Lara surprises her stew by refusing to assign a second stewardess, hoping to avoid drama.

As if the crew dynamics weren’t challenging enough, Tzarina discovers a weevil and maggot infestation in the galley just 12 hours before the first charter. A deep clean is necessary, delaying food prep and adding stress to an already chaotic situation.

The First Guests Arrive—And so do the Problems

Primary guest Mark, an Australian investor, requests a global tasting menu for his group, including his vegan partner. Tzarina, confident in her skills, starts preparing—but tensions with Anthony continue. He feels micromanaged, while she believes he hasn’t yet proven himself.

The deck team’s troubles escalate when Johnny forgets his radio and gets stranded on a jet ski without a key. Fortunately, Wihan and Harry notice in time to rescue him, but it’s an embarrassing moment for the self-proclaimed leader. “As long as it doesn’t happen again,” Captain Jason says.

Dinner Service Sparks Conflict

Tzarina and Anthony manage to deliver a delicious multi-course meal, but service isn’t seamless. Lara and Tzarina butt heads over utensils and timing, leading to frustration on both sides. Meanwhile, the stews uncover some personal items in the guests’ luggage, leading to some awkward conversations.

The next morning, the crew struggles to get things running smoothly. With guests waking up to an unprepared deck and a delayed breakfast service, tensions mount. Lara, overwhelmed by the massive yacht’s layout and a malfunctioning elevator, breaks down in frustration. To make matters worse, Tzarina is annoyed when guests make custom breakfast requests, despite it being standard practice.

Where can you Watch Below Deck Down Under Season 3?

Below Deck Down Under airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo, with new episodes streaming the following day on Peacock.