Why Captain Sandy Almost Turned Down Below Deck Mediterranean

When asked to join Below Deck Mediterranean, Captain Sandy Yawn reveals her initial thoughts on the opportunity.

Ever since taking over as captain for Season 2, Captain Sandy Yawn has been a star on Below Deck Mediterranean, stepping in to replace Captain Mark Howard.

For eight consecutive seasons, she has been the face of the spinoff and made history as the first and only female captain in the franchise.

Despite her dedication to the show, Captain Sandy expressed on the June 10 episode of the Crazy Sexy Food podcast that she had concerns about her reputation within the yachting industry prior to appearing on reality TV.

“Initially, I was hesitant to do the show because I feared it would harm my career and I was uncertain. However, I eventually realized that when an opportunity presents itself, one should seize it. That’s the advice I gave myself,”the captain elaborated.

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The Below Deck Med star also came to the realization that she had alternatives in case the show did ultimately impact her reputation.

“She added that one always has the option to turn around and leave through the door, there is no obligation to stay. She personally made the decision to do so and is thankful that she did, as it provided her with the opportunity to use her platform to assist others.”

Those who tune in to Below Deck Med are familiar with Captain Sandy as the commander of the spinoff who oversees her team. However, she has recently opened up about her true intentions for joining the show.

Through her work in the yachting industry, Captain Sandy has found support in maintaining her sobriety. She is a vocal advocate for sobriety and a proud member and supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The captain of the show, during Season 9, continues to showcase her leadership through documenting her engagement to Leah Shafer and representing the scarce number of women in leadership positions on boats.