In Season 3 of Below Deck Down Under, Bosun Wihan Du Toit is facing a controversial portrayal that many argue is unjust. Despite the intense scrutiny surrounding his actions, Wihan continues to effectively manage his responsibilities on the deck crew. This season has unfolded with countless dramatic moments, including Wihan’s romantic entanglements with Chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph and Stew Marina Marcondes de Barros, and emotional expressions of love through letters to Deckhand/Stew Adair Werley. Nevertheless, certain yacht crew members have chosen to label him unfairly.
Another figure in the spotlight is Captain Jason Chambers, who similarly seems to have received a divisive edit this season. Once a fan-favorite on the network, Jason’s popularity appears to have waned, especially in the absence of former Chief Stew Aesha Scott. While both Wihan and Captain Jason face criticism, I contend that their portrayals as villains stem more from production’s desire to create conflict rather than any genuine misdeeds on their part. The reality is, the boat is abuzz with plenty of genuine drama, irrespective of any narrative crafted by the editors.
Wihan Du Toit: A Seasoned Professional
Expertise at Work
Although Wihan may be new to the Below Deck franchise, his extensive experience in the maritime sector validates his position as a capable Bosun. With over nine years of hands-on involvement, he has dramatically ascended from a Junior Deckhand to a Captain—a significant accomplishment in such a competitive field. Launching his own enterprise, Yacht One International, in 2022, Wihan caters to a luxury clientele, mirroring the high-end service he provides on the show.
Despite Chief Stew Lara Rigby’s attempts to portray him as incompetent, Wihan’s leadership skills and industry knowledge affirm his capabilities. Tasked with leading the deck crew on the Katina, he initially established a solid dynamic with Deckhands Harry Van Vilet, Johnny Arvanitis, and Adair. Yet, as the season progressed, conflicts arose, particularly with Harry, who became increasingly irritated by Wihan’s more relaxed management approach. This tension appears to have intensified, fueled by Lara’s personal grievances against Wihan and Chef Tzarina’s frustrations stemming from romantic rejections.
While contrasting leadership styles are apparent between Wihan and Lara, this disparity does not inherently discredit Wihan’s effectiveness as a Bosun. Lara, adopting an iron-fisted approach reminiscent of predecessors like Hannah Ferrier and Kate Chastain, often clashes with Wihan’s laid-back demeanor, leading to inevitable disagreements. Such conflict is not uncommon in a high-pressure environment like a yacht, and it should not unjustly label Wihan as a villain.
Jet Ski Incidents: Not Wihan’s Doing
A Series of Unfortunate Events
It is not reasonable to place all blame for the jet ski accidents squarely on Wihan’s shoulders. Following an incident where Harry injured his thumb while attempting to lift a jet ski—a situation exacerbated by unpredictable ocean conditions—the blame game quickly ensued. This mishap, an unfortunate accident rather than negligence, was not a product of Wihan’s oversight.
Contrary to the production’s framing, Wihan has demonstrated a commitment to guest safety. If he had genuinely believed the jet skis posed a threat, he would have refrained from allowing them into the water. The second significant incident involved Deckhand Johnny Arvanitis and charter guest India, who became stranded following a jet ski malfunction. Wihan initially dismissed Adair’s concerns about potential mechanical issues, a decision that backfired when the jet ski capsized.
Johnny’s efforts to maintain calm amid the chaos were commendable, although allowing an inexperienced India to operate the jet ski contributed to the mishap. Wihan later hinted at operator error rather than a technical fault being a root cause.
A Different Standard: Comparing Villainy
Wihan vs. Gary King
In light of Gary King’s sustained questionable behavior on the franchise, Wihan’s so-called villainous actions are laughable. Gary’s conduct has crossed serious ethical lines, particularly concerning crew safety and allegations of sexual misconduct. While Wihan’s romantic interests have been obvious, they have remained within appropriate limits, contrasting sharply with Gary’s troubling history.
Gary has faced multiple allegations off-camera, including an incident where he allegedly restrained a former Bravo makeup artist against her will. Despite official reports to Bravo about these serious claims, he received minimal repercussions, including only being uninvited from BravoCon 2023. Moreover, his inappropriate interactions with female crew members raise significant concerns about his behavior, which further amplifies the disparity between how Wihan and Gary are portrayed.
Additionally, Gary’s on-screen actions have not led to rehabilitation of his image. His consistent indulgence in drinking has resulted in several problematic situations, casting him in a negative light and raising red flags about his judgment and professionalism. Comparatively, Wihan’s actions seem quite tame.
Is Wihan Facing Dismissal?
Probable Dismissal on the Horizon?
In the unfolding narrative of Season 3, it appears that Wihan stands as the most likely candidate for dismissal. The season’s previews suggest a looming decision from Captain Jason regarding one crew member’s fate, and the brewing tensions point strongly towards Wihan. Facing animosity from Harry regarding his management style, a complicated romantic landscape, and ongoing strife with both Chef Tzarina and Chief Stew Lara, Wihan’s position has become increasingly precarious. Although criticism of him is sometimes excessive, his villain edit could indeed set the stage for an impending exit from the show.
Fans can catch Below Deck Down Under Season 3 every Monday at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo, with episodes streaming on Peacock the following day.