With three seasons of Below Deck Down Under in the rearview, Captain Jason Chambers is building quite a name for himself within the franchise. Despite being the youngest Below Deck captain, Jason boasts over two decades of yachting experience and an uncanny ability to stay calm in even the toughest seas. The Australian heartthrob is known for his love of mindfulness, conservation, and philanthropy. While his travels have taken him around the world, Jason spends most of his time in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Although Captain Jason is beloved by fans, he hasn’t faced the easiest course throughout his television career. During season 2, he was lauded for his quick decisions in the wake of sexual misconduct by two crew members. BDDU season 3 saw him face leadership challenges, as an incompetent bosun and clashing department heads nearly derailed the entire season. Nevertheless, Captain Jason maintained his focus and finished strong, ultimately giving his team the guidance they needed to pull through. Now that the season’s over, it’s time to look back on where Captain Jason has been since filming ended.
Jason Battled Skin Cancer
He Was Diagnosed With Melanoma In Late 2024
Captain Jason’s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with melanoma in December 2024. He told People that after noticing changes in a spot on his ribs, he underwent a biopsy that confirmed the presence of skin cancer. Captain Jason admitted that he wondered how he had been so naïve, citing the prevalence of skin cancer, especially among Australians. He explained, “I’m out in the sun all day. How did I think that I was going to be unique to everyone else?”
Captain Jason endured two procedures to remove the cancerous tissue, and he now has only a 5% chance of the cancer returning.
Although his odds are good, the experience forced him to take a harder look at his health. In addition to taking sun protection seriously, Captain Jason is prioritizing his physical and mental wellbeing.
He was honest about the toll the experience took on him.
“I had a really bad end of the year last year. My father’s got Alzheimer’s. Mom’s not well. I had a best friend that passed away. I had melanoma. I don’t think things could have gotten any harder for me at the end of 2024.”
Captain Jason recommitted himself to his daily exercises, which include walking, yoga, and meditation. In addition, he began therapy for the first time in his life, ensuring he is in the best possible mental shape going forward.
Jason Took A Break From Dating
He Wants To Focus On His Daughter, Saskia
Jason’s popularity among Below Deck Down Under fans means he often has to field questions about his romantic life. He told Bravo’s The Daily Dish in February 2025 that he was taking a step back from dating in order to focus on his daughter, Saskia. The captain admitted that his past relationships weren’t always authentic, and he wants to make sure his next partner fits well into his daughter’s life.
Nevertheless, Captain Jason is optimistic about his dating future. He hoped that 2025 would allow him to “get some stability, find out where I’m going to be based, get my career going, and then it’s right to bring someone else in.” Jason admitted he wasn’t ready for a serious relationship before, but after putting his dating life on “pause,” he hoped to find himself in a position to welcome romance.
Jason Keeps In Touch With Former BDDU Crew
He Reconnected With Several Alums On His Podcast
As Jason moves forward in his career, he keeps communication open with those from his past. Below Deck Down Under season 3 Chief Stew Lara Rigby told Bravo that she and the captain “have a great, great friendship” and continue to keep in touch. Although the two had their disagreements during BDDU, Lara maintains respect for Captain Jason, proving that he’s a talented leader who leaves a lasting impression on his crew.
Captain Jason also recently launched a podcast, Inside The Captain’s Lounge. His first two episodes featured Below Deck Down Under alums Culver Bradbury and Brittini Burton. Captain Jason’s willingness to reconnect with his former colleagues and reflect on their experiences exemplifies his self-awareness and desire for growth.
Jason Is Returning For BDDU Season 4
He’ll Be Joined By Daisy Kelliher And Ben Robinson
Captain Jason may be leaving the small screen for now, but Below Deck Down Under fans were overjoyed to learn he will be returning for season 4. Bravo announced on Instagram that Captain Jason is currently filming season 4 alongside Chef Ben Robinson and Below Deck Sailing Yacht Chief Stew Daisy Kelliher. The photo not only confirmed Jason’s continued presence in the franchise, but it promised an unforgettable season ahead as the various franchise favorites unite for the first time.
Below Deck Down Under season 3 wasn’t Captain Jason’s strongest. His leadership challenges made him lose some of the lightheartedness that previously made him stand out within the franchise. Fortunately, it sounds like good things are ahead for Captain Jason. Although he experienced an extremely challenging year, he’s prioritized improving himself both mentally and physically, which means season 4 will likely be his best season yet.
Sources: People, Bravo, Bravo, Captain’s Lounge, Bravo/Instagram, Captain Jason Chambers/Instagram
