Below Deck vs Real Yachting: Inside the Industry with the Hosts of Above Deck
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What is life on a superyacht really like once the cameras stop rolling, and why has Below Deck captured the attention of millions worldwide?
In this episode of Captain’s Chat, Captain Liam Devlin is joined by Sarah Goldman and Kelli Busby, the hosts of the Above Deck Podcast, for an open and informed conversation that bridges reality television with real-world yachting.
Sarah brings years of experience in marine biology and research vessels, from NOAA fieldwork in Hawaii tracking manta rays to fisheries science along the US East Coast. Kelli brings a background in broadcast radio and media, and together they have built one of the most consistent and respected Below Deck discussion platforms online.
This is not a recap episode.
It is a grounded conversation about leadership, pressure, crew culture, and why yachting is far more complex than television can ever fully show.
In this episode, we explore:
- Below Deck vs real yachting and what the show gets right
- Crew dynamics and guest expectations under constant pressure
- Leadership at sea, being firm but fair, and earning trust onboard
- Mental health and wellbeing when there is no off switch
- Extreme charter requests and how captains actually solve them
- Why destinations like Alaska could redefine future yachting content
🎙️ Captain’s Chat
Hosted by Captain Liam Devlin
Follow the Above Deck Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abovedeckpod/
Listen to the Above Deck Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.
If you love Below Deck but want the real context behind the yachts, the crew, and the leadership decisions that never make it to screen, this episode is essential listening.