Ross Inia – Below Deck

By starrymag | December 4, 2018

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) It was touched on a bit during the show, but what got you into yachting?

 

A) I had a cousin in the yachting industry. The thought of working while traveling was appealing to me. I had a similar experience working as a professional Rugby player, traveling most of Europe. In 2011, I took advantage of the opportunity to begin my yachting career. I started as a junior deckhand on a 60-meter boat for about three years and transitioned into a lead deckhand. Subsequent to that experience, I joined a boat as Bosun for six months; I have been in the position of Bosun or First Mate and U.S. based ever since. I have traveled to the Med, Polynesia and now mostly work with boats between Florida and the Bahamas/Caribbean.

 

Q) What made you want to be a part of “Below Deck?” Had you been a fan of the show or familiar with it before joining the cast this year?

 

A) I knew a couple of the cast members on the show from working in the industry. Everyone in the industry knows about the show.

 

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

 

A) Camera time is 24/7—it’s a lot. It takes about a week or so to figure out how to still be yourself as well as natural on camera—it is just a small transition period.

 

Q) Talk about working with Captain Lee.

 

A) Captain Lee is well-known in the industry as a bit of a formidable character. He is pretty stern and direct. You know where you stand with him. There is absolutely no B.S. What you see on camera is what you get. It’s not an act. I got to know him and earned his respect, so I discovered that he does have a soft spot and a heart of gold. We got along very well and established a solid relationship.

 

Q) You and Ashton seemed to become fast friends. What was it about Ashton that quickly connected you two?

 

A) Ashton [Pienaar] and I clicked straight away. We have similar interests, like rugby. Our personalities are quite alike—we don’t take it too seriously—we have a joking banter and keep a positive attitude. We motivate each other and keep out of the drama. Although, I have seen Ashton get emotional and he has seen me do so. We both ground each other and look out for each other’s best interests. Both on show and off, we have a bond and are good mates.

 

Q) There was a lot of controversy with Rhylee [Gerber] this season and the two of you often butted heads. What made you feel comfortable speaking to Captain Lee about the matter?

 

A) I went to Cap because there was a breakdown in communication with the entire crew. Each day, in the wheelhouse, Cap and I would daily plan excursions for the guests; we’d come up with a game plan. But somehow it became a game of telephone where everything would be lost in translation as the plan was repeated between each crew member. Everyone would then be misinformed; this was an ongoing theme. It was making everyone look bad and I thought Cap should be informed. I second-guessed myself a lot where I should not have. I take my work ethic, responsibility and reputation very seriously. I strive to do quality work and maintain high standards. The Cap recognized that, and he respected me for coming forward.

 

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

 

A) The entire experience! However, one particular moment does stand out. We were anchored in Moorea in for the last charter. At night, we turn on all the underwater lights. There were about thirty to forty locals in canoes, fishing around the boat. I spoke with them and they relayed to me that this is how they feed their families. I am Polynesian, so I sort of time traveled and realized “these are my people.” It made me feel incredibly fortunate. I had this moment of gratitude where I felt amazingly connected and my “Below Deck” experience just came full-circle for me…a really beautiful moment where I was just sitting in awe.

 

Q) Who stayed in contact with and become friendly with after the show?

 

A) I formed great friendships on the boat and we all had a blast! I stay in regular contact with Ashton, Adrian [Martin], Josiah [Carter], Cap, Rhylee and Chandler [Brooks].

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Have you been enjoying the instant feedback from fans that you have been receiving to episodes?

 

A) Social media is really new to me. I had a Facebook account just to keep in touch with close friends and family and was not big on social. I opened my Instagram and Twitter shortly before the show and had a good laugh at people’s comments and opinions. You cannot defend yourself against the negative or the haters, you know, you just sort of dig yourself a hole when you try. So, I quickly learned to filter out the negative and respond and engage the positive. I genuinely appreciate everyone who follows me and comments on my posts.

 

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

 

A) Most people might think I come across as super serious—I take my job seriously and am a consummate professional, but I also have a fun-loving attitude and enjoy relaxing and having a good time.

 

“BELOW DECK” SEASON SIX AIRS TUESDAYS AT 9PM ET/PT