‘Below Deck Mediterranean’ Sets Sail With First Female Captain

Below Deck Mediterranean - Sandy Yawn
Preview
Virginia Sherwood/Bravo
Pictured: Sandy Yawn

Oh, Captain, Ms. Captain! Season 2 of Bravo’s Below Deck Mediterranean is setting sail—and this time, there’s a lady at the helm. Sandy Yawn (above) will steer the 154-foot mega-yacht Sirocco (and its mega-demanding charter guests) around the Croatian islands while also navigating the wild antics of her crew, including returnees Hannah Ferrier (chief stew) and Bobby Giancola (deckhand). Here, she drops anchor.

Why aren’t there more female yacht captains?
It’s rare, and I don’t know why! Women can multitask—we all know that—and that gives us an advantage. The crew was absolutely surprised when they first met me.

Your leadership style is extremely hands-on. How does that go over?
It’s not micromanaging, it’s teaching. Some people may have an issue with it and some may not. I’m sure I’ll find out when I watch the show and see them talk smack about me!

As usual, lots of intra-crew romances and drama play out. OK by you?
As captain, I don’t really pay attention to any of that until it presents a problem. I always say, “Suck it up—and don’t bring it on deck!”

Below Deck Mediterranean, Season Premiere, Tuesday, May 2, 9/8c, Bravo