

#2981 Below Deck S12E13: Derby or Not Derby
Aug 26, 2025
In a whirlwind of emotions, Jess struggles with the arrival of a cancer survivor on board, sparking a lively mix of heartfelt anecdotes and comedic moments. Chaos ensues as crew members navigate romantic entanglements and rivalries, particularly around the Kentucky Derby-themed shenanigans. The complexities of friendship and support shine through, especially as Kyle grapples with personal challenges. Tipping culture and humorous banter keep the mood light, making for an entertaining dive into life at sea with a mix of emotional depth and laughs.
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Set Personal Tipping Boundaries
- When tipping becomes ubiquitous, set clear personal rules to avoid overpaying.
- Ben and Ronnie recommend tipping for traditional services but avoid tipping for every automated or inflated charge.
Kyle's Self-Destructive Drinking Cycle
- Kyle repeatedly drinks and self-destructs, alienating Fraser and the crew.
- Hosts describe his drunken apology cycles and how others have lost patience with him.
Medmore Maneuvers Raise Risk
- Medmooring and St. Barts arrivals raise the technical stakes for the crew.
- Ben highlights that anchoring, labyrinth channels, and backing increase risk and stress on deck.