Here is a copy if a statement by PYA, MYBA and ISS:

Below Decks – Reality TV that isn’t really real.

Clearly the Bravo TV show had sufficient viewers to be re-commissioned for  a second season but, as with many ‘reality’ shows, the setup is artificial and as a result the on-screen presentation is in no way representative of the discretion, integrity and high end professionalism that genuine crews display on a daily basis.

The vessel is chartered by the production company and with the Captain, Chief Engineer and First Officer remaining on board, the regular crew are replaced by a selected cast who are filmed on and off duty alongside what we are asked to believe are regular charter guests.