8 Reasons Why Below Deck Down Under’s New Location Could Impact the Show’s Success and Brand

Below Deck Down Under Season 3 is gearing up for its premiere, but significant changes suggest challenging times ahead for its new cast and crew. Notably, Chief Stew Aesha Scott has opted out, choosing instead to continue with the cast of Below Deck Mediterranean. This departure, combined with relocating to the Seychelles, raises concerns about the impact on the franchise’s already shaky footing.

The lineup for Below Deck Down Under Season 3 largely features newcomers, with only a few familiar faces returning: Captain Jason, Deckhand Harry Van Vilet, and Chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph. Last season was fraught with drama, particularly marked by the troubling behaviors of former cast members Luke Jones and Laura Bileskalne, both of whom faced severe disciplinary actions. It remains uncertain if the show can recover from these incidents to restore its reputation.

8 Seychelles Isn’t Technically “Down Under”

It’s Nowhere Near Australia

The Seychelles, located off Madagascar’s northeastern coast, does sit below the equator, yet it does not align with the traditional definition of “down under, ”which predominantly refers to Australia and its surrounding regions. This archipelago, made up of over 100 islands, features numerous less-populated locations that struggle with fresh water access, making tourism the region’s main economic driver.

While undeniably picturesque, the Seychelles is not an ideal setting for Below Deck Down Under. The show’s branding leads fans to expect an Oceania-centric narrative, making this abrupt shift perplexing. It raises questions about whether producers simply wanted to introduce an unexpected twist or if they faced challenges in organizing a charter season in Australia.

7 Fans Need More Consistency

There Have Been Too Many Changes

Consistency is essential for maintaining viewer interest in Below Deck Down Under. The first two seasons showcased the stunning locations of Queensland, with Season 1 focusing on the Whitsunday Islands and Season 2 in Cairns. However, the radical shift to the Seychelles might alienate long-time followers who are accustomed to the Australian backdrop.

If only the location was altered, perhaps fans would be more accepting. However, with Aesha Scott’s departure and the introduction of new Bosun, Wihan Du Toit, and a mostly new interior crew, viewers have little familiarity to cling to. Chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph, now supported by an assistant, may find herself at odds with new Chief Stew Lara Rigby, further complicating the landscape.

6 Below Deck Down Under Needs To Set Itself Apart

It’s Meant To Film In Oceania

The Below Deck franchise thrives on distinct settings and crew dynamics.Below Deck Down Under should ideally remain within the confines of Australia or New Zealand, featuring local talent to enhance authenticity. While previous seasons have varied their filming locations, such as the U. S.Virgin Islands and Tahiti, the consistent charm of Below Deck Mediterranean is attributed to its stable regional focus.

Season	Location
Season 1	Whitsunday Islands
Season 2	Cairns

It is vital for Below Deck Down Under to adhere to its geographical roots. Shifting to Seychelles may as well rebrand it into the original franchise narrative. The show’s integrity is at stake, and its title should reflect the region showcased.

5 Captain Jason Is Less Familiar With Seychelles

He’s Not As Much Of An Expert

Captain Jason’s experience is primarily anchored in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, with extensive familiarity with the Australian coast through his participation in Below Deck Down Under. By sailing the Seychelles for the first time, though, he faces uncharted waters, which could compound the challenges arising from a newly assembled crew.

This scenario might push Captain Jason to rely heavily on the judgment of unfamiliar crew members, and navigating these dynamics on reality television will pose its difficulties. While possessed of considerable expertise, the uncertainties in new waters could hinder the usual lightheartedness typically displayed in crew interactions.

4 Producers Are Doing Too Much

They Seem Frantic

The decision to relocate to Seychelles appears to be a frantic attempt by producers to refresh the show’s appeal, potentially in response to Aesha’s exit. Such drastic choices have become a recurring theme in Bravo’s spin-off series, suggesting a pattern of inconsistency that may fatigue viewers.

Concerns have arisen over the authenticity of recent cast members, which has left many fans questioning the show’s integrity. Bravo’s efforts to fill the gaps left by Aesha tend to overshadow the importance of maintaining continuity that keeps the show’s essence intact.

3 Fans Are Confused By The Location

Seychelles Isn’t Technically Down Under

Currently filming in La Digue, Seychelles by u/stingyboy in belowdeck

“It be weird if it would be down under, as down under is (when referenced as such) 99% of the time Australia.”

This sentiment echoes among fans, who notice an evident disconnect between the series branding and its current geographical context—a shaky start for a season already marred by controversy.

2 New Zealand Would Have Been A Better Choice

It Would Have Been The Right Middle Ground

If a location change was truly necessary, New Zealand would have offered a much more suitable alternative, maintaining alignment with the Oceania designation and ensuring a relevant backdrop for Below Deck Down Under. The country’s stunning scenery and celebrated yachting culture would provide ample engaging content for the series.

Capturing the essence of yachting in New Zealand could align more closely with the show’s original premise. Instead, with Seychelles as the chosen setting, the upcoming season risks alienating its audience and diluting the brand’s identity.

1 The New Location Could Be Why Aesha Didn’t Return

They Should Have Considered Her Input

Aesha’s choice to transition to Below Deck Mediterranean may have stemmed from the location shift to the Seychelles. As a proud Kiwi from Tauranga, New Zealand, Aesha has roots that tie her to the Oceania narrative. The new filming location, being so distanced from her home base, could have prompted her to seek opportunities closer to her heritage and family.

Had producers opted for New Zealand as a filming location, they might have retained Aesha, keeping her talents within the franchise and preserving the connection to the original spirit of Below Deck Down Under. The upcoming Season 3, premiering on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo, has a tall order to fulfill.

Source: u/stingyboy/Reddit

Source & Images