Daniel Zureikat – Below Deck Mediterranean

By starrymag | May 27, 2016

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

Q) It was touched on a bit on the show, but how did you get into yachting?

 

A) In 2014, I went on an international backpacking excursion which was a life changing and eye-opening experience. Immersing myself in the world’s different cultures changed my perspective on life. I asked myself, “How can I travel the world while making a living?” That’s how I fell into yachting. I sold everything that I owned and dedicated myself to the industry.

 

Q) What made you want to be a part of Below Deck Med?

 

A) It was a no-brainer. My goal in yachting was to work on a super-mega yacht in the Mediterranean. The opportunity to join the show was two dreams combined into one. Additionally, I met Ben by coincidence at the same time I was deciding if I would do the show. He provided me some really great insight and perspective which, ultimately, aided me in the decision making process.

 

Q) Were there certain parts of your life you deemed off limits to the camera?

 

A) Initially, I didn’t want to reveal any of my family’s personal problems. However, I have such a huge responsibility taking care of them that it became difficult to hide it from the cameras, which are on you 24/7.

 

Q) We saw you get romantically involved with a guest. What drew you to Morgan?

 

A) You see on the show that I was initially just drawn to her looks. But soon after I got to know her, I instantly fell for her. Seeing someone care for even the littlest things made me appreciate her that much more. She is a beautiful person inside and out.

 

Q) Many fans were concerned about you crossing the line with a guest. Why did you choose to act on your feelings?  

 

A) It’s rare to meet a girl like Morgan in a lifetime. I didn’t want to experience a “what if” moment with her and potentially miss out on a love of a lifetime.

 

Q) What is your current policy on interacting with guests?

 

A) My policy varies charter to charter. I believe it is important to make a personal connection with your guests and leave lasting impressions that make them want to come back. My motto is, “Treat normal people like superstars and superstars like normal people.” It’s ok to connect with guests as long as you get your work done. That being said, I do believe I crossed the line with Morgan. All I can say is I fell for her, which has never happened with a charter guest before.

 

Q) We have seen Ben take you under his wing. What did that mean to you?

 

A) It meant the world to me. He felt like a big brother to me on the yacht, which was cool because I don’t have a biological brother to look up to. Ben was my confidant. One of my favorite places on the boat was in the galley with him. My nickname on the yacht was “Daniel-san.” Ben was my Mr. Miyagi!

 

Q) There has been some controversy with how Bryan treated Jen over the male deck hands. Did you notice a difference?

 

A) Absolutely. Jen confided in me frequently over his misogynistic behavior and her feelings were 100% justified. I hated the fact that Bryan singled her out. Women are strong and (in my experience) typically more resilient than men. His actions were wrong, and I love that Jen is taking a stance for women. She’s badass!

 

Q) What were some of your most memorable moments from filming?

 

A) Our first night out in Greece was one for the books. Being noticed because a camera crew is filming you was a surreal experience. Other favorable moments included hanging out with Ben, getting to know the charter guests and all the new experiences I encountered like riding ATV’s, jet skiing, using the Seabob and snorkeling. I’ll cherish those memories forever.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Have you been enjoying the instant fan feedback you have been receiving?

A) It’s great seeing fans that enjoy the show and the role I play in it. I love and appreciate those who have positive and kind things to say. Those are the people I invest my time and energy in.

 

Q) What do you want to be sure fans know about you and your time on Below Deck Med?

A) That there’s more to me than meets the eye. I’m not this one-dimensional person who’s consistently unprofessional. Working on a yacht and being filmed working on one are two completely different things. The added drama and high stress levels that come with reality television can bring out the worse in people. If you ask any other individual I’ve ever worked for, they would tell you I work hard and I love what I do.

 

Below Deck Mediterranean airs Tuesday at 9pm ET/PT on Bravo