In a surprise announcement that has rocked the Bravo fandom, Below Deck Sailing Yacht star Colin MacRae has revealed he’s going to be a dad. The beloved chief engineer, known for his rugged charm, no-nonsense approach to yachting, and complicated love triangle with Daisy Kelliher and Gary King, took to social media to share the emotional news that he and his girlfriend are expecting their first child together.
The post, shared to Instagram on Sunday morning, featured a black-and-white photo of Colin gently holding his girlfriend’s baby bump while the two smiled at each other on the deck of a catamaran—of course, surrounded by the sea. “New adventure loading… Baby MacRae coming soon,” the caption read, followed by a heart and anchor emoji. Fans flooded the comments with congratulations, many expressing their shock at the news and surprise that Colin had quietly stepped into this next chapter of his life.
A Quiet Love Story Away from the Cameras
While Colin’s romantic entanglements on the show have often made headlines—especially during Season 4, when his flirtation with Daisy and feud with Gary dominated the storyline—he’s kept his current relationship largely under wraps. In fact, many fans didn’t even know he was seeing someone seriously. His girlfriend, identified only as Christina in his post, is reportedly not part of the reality TV world and prefers to stay out of the limelight.
A source close to the couple shared that they’ve been dating for over a year and recently moved in together. “They’ve been incredibly happy, traveling a lot, and enjoying life off-camera,” the insider said. “Colin wanted to be absolutely sure before bringing his private life back into the spotlight. But now that they’re expecting, he’s excited to share this joy with the world.”
From High Seas Drama to Fatherhood
Colin has become a fan-favorite on Below Deck Sailing Yacht for his laid-back demeanor, steady leadership in the engine room, and candid confessionals. His bromance with Gary and emotional connection with Daisy had viewers deeply invested—but after a turbulent final season, Colin hinted during the reunion that he was ready for “a more grounded life.”
Now, it appears he’s found it.
“This baby has changed everything,” Colin reportedly told friends, according to Bravo sources. “I’ve always chased adventure, but nothing compares to the feeling of knowing you’re going to be a dad. It’s the most real thing I’ve ever felt.”
He also shared a short video in his Instagram Stories showing the couple setting up a nursery in what appears to be a coastal home in New Zealand, where Colin often resides when he’s not filming or working on yachts.
Fans and Co-Stars React
Bravo stars and Below Deck alumni were quick to react to the news. Daisy Kelliher left a heartfelt comment, writing, “So happy for you both ❤️ This baby is lucky to have you as a dad.” Captain Glenn, known for his dry humor, joked, “Hope the baby’s ready to swab the deck!” while stewardess Alli Dore—who recently welcomed a baby of her own—offered warm advice about balancing parenthood with yachting life.
Fans also flooded Reddit and Twitter (X) with posts speculating whether Colin’s new chapter means a permanent break from reality TV. “We watched him fall in love, get heartbroken, and now find peace. It’s like watching a character arc come full circle,” one Reddit user wrote.
Another added, “I’m just glad he’s happy. This feels so real and genuine. Congrats, Colin!”
What’s Next for Colin?
While it’s unclear whether Colin will return for future seasons of Below Deck Sailing Yacht, he hasn’t ruled it out entirely. “Yachting is in my blood,” he’s said in past interviews, “but right now, I’m focused on building a home and being present for this next chapter.”
Bravo has yet to comment on the news or whether Colin’s fatherhood journey might be documented in some way. Given the recent trend of spin-offs and family-oriented Bravo content, fans are already wondering if a new show could be in the works—perhaps Below Deck: Baby on Board?
For now, though, Colin seems content with the simple joys: morning coffees with his partner, prepping for late-night feedings, and counting down the days until he meets his little one.
And honestly? It’s an ending—and beginning—worthy of the open sea.
