Below Deck Down Under Season 3, Episode 9 Recap: Tensions Rise Between Wihan and Lara
On March 31, 2025, Bravo aired the eagerly anticipated ninth episode of Below Deck Down Under Season 3, titled Foam Sick. In this installment, the ongoing conflict between Bosun Wihan Du Toit and Chief Stew Lara Rigby reached new heights, despite Captain Jason Chambers‘ attempts to mediate their differences in previous episodes.
The Clash of Leadership Styles
From the season’s onset, the contrasting management styles of Wihan and Lara have sparked numerous clashes. Lara is known for her focus on efficiency and getting tasks completed, while Wihan adopts a more relaxed approach, often encouraging his team to take time to unwind even during busy periods.
Their friction became increasingly problematic in episode 8, prompting Captain Jason to express his frustrations. In a confessional, Jason conveyed his concerns about the duo’s inability to collaborate effectively, emphasizing the potential consequences: if they did not resolve their issues, one of them would face dismissal.
“I’m so over this drama with Lara and Wihan. If they can’t figure this out and find a way to work together, someone’s going home,” Jason declared.
Struggles Prior to the New Charter
In episode 9, as preparations for a new set of charter guests began, tensions flared during a leadership meeting involving Lara, Tzarina Mace-Ralph, and Wihan. Both Lara and Tzarina voiced their frustrations regarding Wihan’s attitude towards his responsibilities aboard the yacht.
Instead of engaging constructively, Wihan dismissed their concerns, stating he could only do so much work, proudly highlighting the downtime he provides for his team.
The Aftermath of the Requested Foam Party
The crew organized a requested foam night party for the guests, which resulted in a chaotic aftermath. Although the guests enjoyed themselves, the cleanup fell heavily on Johnny, who found himself alone dealing with the mess while Wihan opted for a snack and rest.
After struggling through the night, Johnny hoped that Harry would assist with the cleanup during his morning shift. However, Harry was overwhelmed by the “filthy” state of the yacht when he arrived the following morning.
Conflict Erupts During Breakfast Preparations
As breakfast approached, Wihan directed Harry to clean the deck near the dining table, a request that drew Lara’s ire. She stepped in, arguing that it was the wrong time for such a task, particularly since it should have been handled much sooner.
In response to the mounting frustration from the party, Wihan approached Captain Jason to vent about the situation. He expressed disappointment regarding the cleanup and conveyed his annoyance at Lara’s remarks.
“When I got on board this morning, there’s obviously a lot of spots and cake that’s been messed and whatever, so Harry should have done that,” he told Jason. “But then, Lara, she just looks at me and says, ‘Hey, you just always have an answer for everything. This should have been done a long time ago,”he said.
“I cannot have someone commenting stuff like that. She has no idea what’s going on on the outside,” Wihan added.
However, Captain Jason did not provide Wihan with the sympathy he sought. Instead, he reminded Wihan of their five charters this season and stressed the importance of taking responsibility for his duties, cautioning him against blaming others.
Lara’s Perspective and Final Ultimatum
Meanwhile, Lara confided in Tzarina about her frustrations regarding Wihan. She labeled him “unprofessional” and expressed her struggles in working with someone who does not take responsibility for their actions.
“He doesn’t take any accountability; he doesn’t take any responsibility. He blames everyone else. I just — I don’t know what to do,” she lamented.
As the episode drew to a close, Captain Jason reiterated the need for Wihan and Lara to resolve their ongoing issues, warning that failure to do so would result in one of them being sent home.
New episodes of Below Deck Down Under Season 3 air every Monday on Bravo and can be streamed the following day on Peacock.