Below Deck, the acclaimed Bravo series showcasing the high-stakes world of luxury yacht chartering, has stirred up controversy once again. This time, the spotlight falls on former Real Housewives Of New York City star Jill Zarin and her behavior as a charter guest aboard the St. David.
Barbie Pascual, a member of Below Deck’s interior crew, has stepped forward to defend Jill Zarin amidst the backlash she’s facing for her demanding requests and suggestions during her time on board. Despite the criticism, Pascual emphasizes that there were moments where Zarin showcased her fun and sweet side.
Zarin’s behavior drew attention for her specific requests, including her desire for a certain type of ice for her soda and even suggesting the installation of a bell for guests to signal for service. While some deemed these requests excessive, Pascual argues that they were not entirely unreasonable and even classified them as “normal yacht requirements.”
Acknowledging that she may have contributed to the negative portrayal of Zarin, Pascual expresses regret for dragging her name “through the mud.” She emphasizes that Zarin’s requests were not as egregious as they may have appeared on the show, urging viewers to consider the context and the pressures of providing top-tier service to high-profile guests.
In response to the criticism, Zarin took to social media to share her perspective on the situation, laughing off her reputation for being the “complainer” and defending herself against accusations of rudeness. While she acknowledges her high standards as a guest, Zarin maintains that her requests were justified given the luxury experience she expected.
As Below Deck season 11 continues to unfold, viewers can expect more drama and high-maintenance guests to grace the decks of the luxury mega yacht. With tensions running high and expectations soaring, the crew must navigate the delicate balance between meeting demanding requests and delivering an unforgettable experience for their esteemed guests.
