Below Deck Shatters Records with Jaw-Dropping $40K Tip - The Biggest in History

Bravo’s reality show, which chronicles the lives of the crew working aboard luxury superyachts during busy charter seasons, has been a major hit for the network since the first episode premiered in 2013.

Over the past 10 years, Below Deck has not only broken many viewer records but has also spawned two successful spin-offs, cementing its place as the most beloved reality TV franchise currently airing. Fans love the series for its honest portrayal of cruise life and the constant comparison between the employees and their wealthy guests.

However, not all guests are spoiled brats, as some of them become an integral part of the show, delighting viewers with their hilarious antics and attentive interaction with the staff.

But it seems that one particular group of guests, introduced in the recently released 16th episode of season 10, has managed to exceed even the wildest expectations of fans.

Barring a little drama on the part of the staff, the episode seemed rather unremarkable until the very end, when guests who had hired the luxury yacht St. David left a huge tip for the crew. Fans and staff alike were astonished that the guests decided to leave a tip of $40,000.

Even the always reserved and calm Captain Lee couldn't keep his jaw from dropping when he heard about it. It is at moments like this that fans are reminded that Below Deck is not just a reality show, but a pretty honest portrayal of the luxury cruise business.

This huge tip was the biggest in franchise history, as both Sailing Yacht and The Mediterranean have never had a guest compliment even similar to the one the team received in episode 16. The previous record was around $32,000, which is also an absolutely amazing tip, but still pales in comparison to the current record holder. Fans hope that future guests will make it their goal to surpass this one, aiming to please the team even more.