Hannah Below Deck: From Chief Stew To Life Beyond The Yacht

**When Below Deck Mediterranean became the second iteration of the Below Deck franchise in 2016, fans were introduced to the ship's chief steward, Hannah Ferrier. Her journey on the high seas, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, quickly made her a household name among reality television enthusiasts. For four seasons, viewers watched Hannah navigate the demanding world of luxury yachting, managing demanding guests and a dynamic crew, all while dealing with her own personal struggles and the intense pressure of reality TV.** Her tenure on the show was undeniably iconic, shaping the early identity of *Below Deck Mediterranean*. From her no-nonsense approach to service to her often-turbulent relationships with crew members and Captain Sandy Yawn, Hannah Ferrier became a central figure, her every move scrutinized by millions. Her dramatic departure in 2020 left a void for many fans, but it also opened the door to a new, equally compelling chapter in her life, proving that even after a high-profile reality TV exit, there's always more to the story.

Hannah Ferrier: A Biographical Overview

Before diving deeper into her reality TV career and subsequent ventures, it's important to understand the woman behind the chief stew persona. Hannah Ferrier's journey is one of resilience, growth, and ultimately, finding her true calling beyond the confines of a superyacht.

The Rise of Hannah Ferrier on Below Deck Mediterranean

When *Below Deck Mediterranean* first premiered in 2016, Hannah Ferrier was introduced as the no-nonsense chief stewardess, a role she held from Season 1, Episode 1, until partway through Season 5. Her quick wit, dedication to her job, and often emotional responses to the pressures of yachting quickly endeared her to a vast audience. She was a central figure, driving much of the show's narrative and drama.

Early Days and Proving Herself

Interestingly, Hannah's journey into yachting was fueled by a desire to prove doubters wrong. Before *Below Deck Mediterranean*, she was a high school dropout who was reportedly told she would never amount to anything. This served as a powerful motivator. On her first season on a yacht, she "worked her ass off" to defy those expectations. By her second season, her dedication and hard work paid off, leading to her promotion to chief stewardess. This backstory resonated with many viewers, showcasing a tenacious spirit that would define her time on the show. Throughout her seasons, Hannah became synonymous with the chief stew role. She managed the interior team, ensuring guest satisfaction, handling provisions, and maintaining the highest standards of luxury service. Her interactions with various crew members, from green stews to seasoned chefs, often provided both comedic relief and intense conflict. Her relationship with Captain Sandy Yawn, however, would prove to be the most defining and ultimately, the most dramatic.

The Infamous Dismissal: Valium, Vape, and Drama

The departure of Hannah Ferrier from *Below Deck Mediterranean* in 2020 was arguably one of the most dramatic and talked-about moments in the franchise's history. It was a pivotal event that sent shockwaves through the fandom and led to a prolonged public feud. The incident unfolded during Season 5 when fellow crew member Malia White, the bosun, informed Captain Sandy that she had found Valium in Hannah's belongings. Valium, a prescription drug used to treat anxiety, was not the primary issue; rather, it was Hannah's alleged failure to declare it on board. The situation escalated when a vape pen was also found. Captain Sandy Yawn ultimately dismissed Hannah Ferrier for having undeclared prescription drugs on board, citing safety protocols and the strict rules of yachting. This dismissal was not just a professional setback; it was a public spectacle. The decision sparked intense debate among viewers, with many siding with Hannah, arguing that her anxiety medication was a personal matter and that the way it was handled was overly harsh. Others supported Captain Sandy, emphasizing the importance of adherence to maritime laws and safety regulations. Regardless of individual perspectives, the incident cemented itself as a defining moment for both Hannah and the *Below Deck* franchise.

The Fallout with Captain Sandy Yawn

The immediate aftermath of Hannah's firing led to a very public and protracted feud between her and Captain Sandy. For years, the two feuded, exchanging barbs in interviews and on social media. Fans were keenly aware of the animosity, and it seemed unlikely that the two would ever reconcile. Captain Sandy often expressed her disappointment, while Hannah maintained that she felt unfairly targeted and misunderstood. The tension between the former chief stew and her captain became a significant storyline even after Hannah's exit from the show, highlighting the deep emotional impact of the dismissal on both parties. This public disagreement became a talking point for fans and media alike, further solidifying Hannah's place in *Below Deck* lore. It demonstrated the raw, unscripted nature of reality television and how on-screen conflicts can spill over into real-life relationships.

Life Beyond the Yacht: A New Chapter

Since her dramatic exit from *Below Deck Mediterranean*, Hannah Ferrier has undeniably been "living her best life." Her journey post-Bravo has been marked by significant personal milestones and a pivot towards new professional ventures. She has successfully transitioned from a reality TV star primarily known for her on-screen drama to a multifaceted individual embracing motherhood, marriage, and new career paths.

Motherhood and Marriage

One of the most significant and joyous updates in Hannah's life has been the birth of her daughter, Ava Grace. Hannah Ferrier's life after *Below Deck Med* truly blossomed with the arrival of her baby, bringing a new focus and immense joy. She frequently shares glimpses of her life as a mother on social media, showcasing a softer, more grounded side that fans rarely saw on the show. Adding to her personal happiness, Hannah Ferrier is now married. She and Josh Roberts, who are parents to daughter Ava Grace, tied the knot on March 26, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. The *Below Deck Mediterranean* alumna has openly shared sweet updates on her marriage, celebrating milestones with her husband. Recently, she revealed that she and her husband just celebrated their anniversary, highlighting their interesting life together with their daughter, including a significant move to France. This move signifies a fresh start, embracing a new culture and lifestyle away from the constant spotlight of American reality television.

Hannah Ferrier's New Career Horizons

While her time on *Below Deck Mediterranean* made her famous, Hannah Ferrier has proven that her expertise extends far beyond the confines of a superyacht. She has leveraged her experience and public profile to embark on several exciting new career paths, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and continued passion for the yachting industry, albeit in a different capacity.

From Reality TV to Entrepreneurship and Podcasting

Hannah Ferrier is now the CEO of Ocean Int Training Academy, a venture that allows her to share her extensive knowledge and experience as a chief stewardess with aspiring yachting professionals. This move aligns perfectly with her background and provides a valuable service to those looking to enter the demanding world of luxury yachting. It's a testament to her expertise and a natural progression from her on-screen role. Beyond her training academy, Hannah has also made a name for herself in the podcasting world. She hosts "Dear Reality, You're Effed!", a podcast where she discusses the intricacies of reality television, offering her unique perspective as a former Bravolebrity. This platform allows her to connect with fans on a deeper level, sharing insights and behind-the-scenes stories that only someone with her experience could provide. Her presence in media hasn't stopped there. Since her *Below Deck* firing, Hannah has been helping contestants find love in "The Love Boat Australia," a new show in Europe. This role showcases her versatility as a TV personality, moving from the high-stress environment of yachting to a more lighthearted, romantic setting. These projects, including "The Love Boat Australia" and "Dear Reality, You're Effed!", highlight her continued relevance and appeal to a broad audience. Hannah may have moved away from Bravo and parted ways dramatically with *Below Deck Mediterranean*, but she is certainly not out of the spotlight, maintaining a significant presence with over 863,000 followers on Instagram.

Reconnecting with Captain Sandy: A Surprising Turn

Perhaps one of the most unexpected developments in Hannah Ferrier's post-*Below Deck* life has been the mending of her relationship with Captain Sandy Yawn. After years of public feuding, the two have reportedly reconnected, much to the surprise and delight of fans. *Below Deck Med*'s Captain Sandy and Hannah Ferrier exclusively told Us Weekly what caused them to reconnect after a public feud. Dishing about their recent hangout, Captain Sandy said, "I do care about Hannah." This sentiment marks a significant shift from the previous animosity. While details of their reconciliation are still emerging, it suggests a mutual desire to move past the drama and acknowledge their shared history. This development speaks volumes about personal growth and the possibility of forgiveness, even after a very dramatic falling out. It's a testament to the complex nature of human relationships, even those forged under the intense scrutiny of reality television.

Hannah Ferrier's Enduring Legacy and Influence

Hannah Ferrier's impact on the *Below Deck* franchise, and indeed on reality television, is undeniable. She wasn't just a chief stew; she was a personality who resonated deeply with viewers. Her authenticity, vulnerability, and resilience made her a relatable figure, even amidst the backdrop of luxury yachting. She brought a human element to the often-glamorous world of *Below Deck Mediterranean*, showcasing the demanding nature of the job and the emotional toll it can take. Her firing, while controversial, also sparked important conversations about mental health in the workplace and the pressures faced by individuals in high-stress environments. It forced viewers to consider the human side of reality TV stars, beyond their on-screen personas. Hannah's willingness to speak openly about her anxiety and her experiences has contributed to a broader dialogue, making her more than just a reality star but also an advocate for mental well-being. Her journey from being a chief stew on *Below Deck Mediterranean* to a successful entrepreneur and mother has inspired many, proving that there is life and success beyond a single career path or public setback.

What's Next for Hannah Ferrier?

As Hannah Ferrier continues to build her life in France with her husband Josh and daughter Ava, her future remains bright and full of possibilities. With her successful training academy, popular podcast, and appearances on new television shows, she has firmly established herself as a multi-talented media personality and entrepreneur. Fans eagerly anticipate what's on the horizon for the former chief stew following her Season 5 dismissal. Whether it's expanding her training academy, delving into more television projects, or simply sharing more of her family life, Hannah's journey continues to captivate. Her ability to pivot and thrive after a public departure from a major reality show serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that resilience and adaptability are key to navigating life's unexpected turns. Hannah Ferrier has proven that her story is far from over, and her evolving career and personal life continue to be a source of fascination for her dedicated fanbase. In conclusion, Hannah Ferrier's time as chief stew on *Below Deck Mediterranean* was iconic, marked by both professional prowess and personal drama, culminating in her dramatic dismissal. However, her story didn't end there. She has since embraced motherhood, married her partner, and successfully launched new ventures, including her yachting training academy and popular podcast. Her journey also includes a surprising reconciliation with Captain Sandy, showcasing her capacity for growth and forgiveness. Hannah Ferrier exemplifies resilience, proving that life after reality TV can be even more fulfilling. What are your thoughts on Hannah's journey since *Below Deck Mediterranean*? Share your comments below, and don't forget to explore more articles on our site about your favorite reality TV stars!