Colin Macrae’s Journey Post-Below Deck Sailing Yacht
Former Chief Engineer Colin Macrae, a notable figure from the Bravo series Below Deck Sailing Yacht, has embarked on a new chapter since leaving the show. His calm demeanor and level-headed approach significantly steadied the crew aboard Parsifal III during his tenure in seasons 2 through 4. Colin developed strong bonds with Chief Stew Daisy Kelliher and First Officer Gary King, supported by Captain Glenn Shephard. Though season 5’s Chief Engineer Davide Morosi has stepped in, the absence of Colin remains palpable among fans and crew alike.
Colin’s New Focus: YouTube Success
340K Subscribers and Counting
Colin has redirected his efforts toward his flourishing YouTube channel, Sailing Parlay Revival, which boasts over 340K subscribers and an impressive 60 million views. This platform marks his transition from reality TV to a more personal and authentic expression of his journey, initiated when he and friends salvaged a hurricane-damaged catamaran in 2018. The channel showcases Colin’s restoration projects and sailing adventures, allowing him to dictate his schedule free from the drama associated with television reality.
Since completing the catamaran restoration, Colin has pursued his passion for sailing extensively. His voyages, including a notable journey from New Zealand to Fiji—an experience Colin dubbed “everything that I had dreamt of” —highlight a more relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle. Through his videos, he shares his sailing expertise while fostering community among fellow boaters. Venturing back to Below Deck Sailing Yacht would only hinder his current momentum and creative control.
Moving On From Past Relationships
Letting Go of the Past
The complex relationship between Colin and Daisy served as a central storyline in season 4. As Daisy continues her role as Chief Stew aboard Parsifal III, any possible return for Colin would likely reignite interest in their past romance. Given the tumultuous nature of their previous “boatmance,”which also strained Colin’s friendship with Gary, some may argue that his return could offer engaging content. However, returning to this drama would not be beneficial for the show, nor Colin.
While fans may hope for a reconciliation between Colin and Daisy, the tensions observed at the start of season 5 suggest otherwise. The discomforting dynamics between Daisy and Gary marred the season, even as they attempted to move forward. Reintroducing Colin would not only resurface old dramas but could also further disrupt the crew’s chemistry, something the series can ill afford.
Life Beyond Reality TV
A Natural Path Forward
Colin has found success and fulfillment outside the constraints of reality television. Since departing from Below Deck Sailing Yacht, he has embraced a lifestyle that prioritizes his love for sailing. His thriving YouTube channel reflects his growth and commitment to pursuing his passions rather than seeking fame. Unlike many of his peers, Colin has maintained a subdued public profile, genuinely enjoying his experiences without exploiting his reality fame.
Colin’s decision to distance himself from Below Deck is further supported by the serious allegations against fellow cast member Gary, which could tarnish not only Gary’s reputation but also that of the entire show. Given the recent controversies surrounding the franchise, Colin’s choice to step away seems both prudent and relevant.
As season 5 unfolds, it is evident that Colin’s absence is not the root of the show’s challenges. The slow start has been exacerbated by external controversies and pre-existing tensions within the cast. A fresh approach, potentially including new cast members and a break from stale narratives, may be the key to revitalizing Below Deck Sailing Yacht and recapturing its early charm.
Below Deck Sailing Yacht airs Mondays at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo.
Sources: Sailing Parlay Revival/YouTube, Colin Macrae/Instagram, Bravo
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