Below Deck’s Barbara Kulaif opened up about her dating history in a candid moment that surprised viewers. Barbara revealed sensitive information about her love past on Bravo’s famous yachting reality series on Monday, June 30, while connecting with fellow crew member Jess Theron.
"I don't remember the last time I was with a gay girl. My ex-girlfriend was straight, and we stayed together for a year and a half," Barbara revealed in her confessional.
Barbara discussed her previous romances while considering a new romance with Jess on Below Deck Season 12. The hit reality program follows yacht crew members as they balance their professions, visitors, and personal lives while working in cramped quarters.
Barbara’s confession revealed she had struggled to feel understood in past relationships. Now she’s looking forward to connecting with someone who shares her sexual orientation. But of course, nothing stays simple on this boat—just as sparks begin to fly with Jess, a messy love triangle starts to stir things up.
What is the drama unfurling around Barbara and Jess on Below Deck?
Barbara’s honest confession shed light on her dating experiences as a gay woman. She explained how her previous relationship with a straight woman affected her approach to romance. The year-and-a-half relationship left Barbara feeling emotionally drained from waiting for someone who remained uncertain about their commitment.
"I don't think I want to be the one again waiting for someone's time," Barbara explained.
She described the exhaustion that comes from being with someone who lacks certainty about the relationship. The experience clearly impacted how she views potential partners.
Barbara expressed relief about Jess being gay, noting their shared experiences and common ground.
"Sometimes you just feel tired to be with someone that is not sure about you. It is nice that Jess is gay. We have a lot in common and I really like her," she shared.
The two crew members developed their bond during the episode, sharing intimate moments by the pool at a beach club. Barbara admitted she hadn’t “been with another gay girl for so long,” making her connection with Jess feel particularly meaningful.
Their chemistry was evident as they spent time together, wordlessly setting up dinner tables and sharing quiet moments. Barbara appeared excited about where their relationship might lead, especially given their shared understanding as gay women.
Despite Barbara’s happiness, complications arose quickly. Solène Favreau entered the picture, leading to friction among the crew. Although Solène had been involved with Kyle Stillie, she began reconsidering her options.
The situation became messy when Jess found herself caught between Barbara and Solène. Jess admitted that Solène was her “Kryptonite,” indicating strong attraction despite her growing connection with Barbara.
Barbara’s emotional response was intense, with confessional footage showing her in tears. She expressed hatred for how the love triangle made her feel, bringing back painful memories of uncertainty from past relationships.
What lies ahead for them on Below Deck?
The current season of Below Deck has delivered non-stop entertainment with returning favorites and new crew members. Captain Kerry Titheradge leads the yacht alongside chief steward Fraser Olender and other familiar faces.
Fraser teased that the season will be packed with crew shakeups, surprise hires, and nonstop drama. On top of the job stress, romance is making things even messier below deck.
The Caribbean may appear to be a paradise, but it isn’t all sunshine for this crew. Barbara’s emotional honesty about her dating life resonated with people who understand how difficult it is to make genuine connections. Her narrative explores identity, acceptance, and the fortitude required to keep putting yourself out there.
But things will not remain tranquil for long. A new love triangle is forming on Below Deck, putting Barbara’s feelings for Jess to the test—as well as her capacity to keep it together.
Below Deck Season 12 streams Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo, with new episodes available to stream the next day on Peacock.