'Below Deck' Season 8: Who is Kate Chastain's replacement Francesca Rubi? All about the new chief stew

At the moment, it would be too early and unfair to predict if Francesca will be successful in filling Kate's shoes but from how Bravo describes her, it should not be a tough feat for her to achieve
PUBLISHED NOV 3, 2020
Kate Chastain, Francesca Rubi (Bravo)
Kate Chastain, Francesca Rubi (Bravo)

Kate Chastain said goodbye to 'Below Deck' after serving as the chief stewardess for six long years. Captain Lee Rosbach will definitely miss her and the way she would handle every issue with fitness every season. But the good news is, Francesca Rubi has replaced the pro on My Seanna, the yacht that was featured in Season 6 as well. 

At the moment, it would be too early and unfair to predict if Francesca will be successful in filling Kate's shoes but from how Bravo describes her, it should not be a tough feat for her to achieve. "A perfectionist who runs a tight ship by raising the bar when it comes to service," the press release reads. "I do take my job a little bit too seriously sometimes," she said in the trailer and this approach could cost her a few tears when she realizes that her "white gloves, no water marks" standard has sent a shockwave through the crew and has pushed her to her breaking point. 

Who is Francesca Rubi?

Originally from Sydney, Australia, this new member of the crew has grown up to love the nomadic lifestyle. Her yachting experience is vast and varied. Before earning her name as a chief stew, she has worked as a purser and a deckhand. When not working, she enjoys exploring cultures from across the boundaries and partying. The comparisons are going to be obvious because Kate never gave Lee a chance to complain. Since Francesca is new to the setting, it might take her a while before she can get accustomed to his way of working the charters. 

Additionally, the viewers will also see the return of bosun Eddie Lucas who disappeared from the show after the fiasco on Season 3. He admitted to cheating on Amy, his girlfriend back home, with third stewardess Raquel 'Rocky' Dakota. However, both regretted indulging in the affair that broke a few connections but not before Rocky claimed that they hooked up after the filming ended.

Catch the 'Below Deck' Season 8 premiere on Bravo on November 3, at 9/8c. For more information, check your local listings.

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