Episode reviews

Below Deck Season 12 Episode 3 review

🌊 Fight Island: Below Deck Season 12 Episode 3 Roils with Rookie Errors
By Sienna G, Senior Entertainment Contributor

The crew of the St. David faces its toughest charter yet in Episode 3—aptly titled “Fight Island”—as a high-profile group of adult-entertainment guests raises the stakes. Rampant rookie mistakes, emotional breakdowns, and leadership fissures turn sunny seas stormy in this dramatic mid-season installment.

⚓ Deck Drama: Caio’s Command Under Scrutiny

Bosun Caio’s leadership keeps unraveling. Minor missteps—missed crew breaks, botched snorkeling logistics, and even returning guests early from excursions—spark mounting frustration from Captain Kerry. At one point, Kerry asks Caio point-blank if he’s “up for this job,” signaling a critical turning point. The deckside environment begins feeling like a powder keg—just waiting for the spark.

🫧 Interior Turmoil: Rainbeau Unravels

Inside, second stew Rainbeau is pushed to her limits. Solène’s apathetic attitude toward cabin work forces Rainbeau into overdrive—by 2 AM, she’s breaking down in a panic attack as she scrambles to finish turn-downs. The saga—Febreze-efficient bed making, ignored apologies, and public crew confrontations—paints a portrait of burnout. Viewers can’t help but feel for Rainbeau, whose emotional collapse marks the hidden cost of inexperience.

🍽️ Galley Alliances: Anthony & Lawrence Stabilize

After Lawrence’s impending exit, returning chef Anthony officially steps up in Episode 3—but not without tension. He arrives wary of unresolved history with Fraser (in fact, he says his comeback “can be … drama”). Thankfully, in the galley at least, the pair deliver: A mouthwatering lunch followed by a snappy French cabaret dinner demonstrates a rare instance of functional productivity amidst the chaos.

🎭 Guest Experience: Pornstars & Performances

The charter guests, porn-stars led by Skyy Knox bring color and levity. They request napkins, lube in all rooms, even a nudist beach dong-sculpting session. Their laid-back vibe masks the crew’s struggles, amplifying the divide between guest perception and behind-the-scenes mayhem.

🔍 Key Takeaways & Forward Motion

DimensionEpisode 3 Highlights
LeadershipCaptain Kerry begins questioning Caio’s capability—expect an alarmingly close firing role.
Engine RoomAnthony & Lawrence steady the ship—solid performance under pressure.
Emotional StakesRainbeau’s mental breakdown may prompt overdue intervention from Fraser.
Crew ChemistrySolène remains the catalyst for interior chaos, with no sign of slowing.

Rating: ★★★★☆
“Fight Island” delivers with unfiltered tension and emotional peaks. The interior team teeters on collapse, the deck crew stands on thin ice, and the galley offers a rare oasis of cohesion. As the charter sails on, the St. David’s crew looks set to either crash—or break through.