24 February 2023 , 21:00
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Mark Howard was the first ever captain on Below Deck Mediterranean - and tragically he died five years later.
Captain Mark was at the helm of the Ionian Princess, a 150ft superyacht which he sailed around Greece with as part of the first season in 2016.
Born and raised on a lake in Michigan, Mark was a yacht captain for almost 30 years, with international experience ranging from sailing the South Pacific to the Mediterranean and Caribbean on both private and charter boats.
On his Bravo profile, it also states that he had a pilot license and enjoyed flying helicopters as a hobby in his spare time.
During Below Deck Med season one, Mark was approachable and supportive of his crew, while demanding professionalism and being hands-on in all aspects of the yacht's operation.
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Captain Mark starred in season one of Below Deck Mediterranean (NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)
Captain Sandy Yawn took over in season two (NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)His advice to aspiring yachties was to be honest, work hard, and pay attention to senior crew members while never forgetting the golden rule of yachting: "The guest is always right."
Mark only stayed on the show for the 13 episode of season one - with current star Captain Sandy taking over at the helm for the second series.
Sadly, Mark passed away on October 29, 2021 in Florida at the age of 65.
His death was described as 'sudden and unexpected' – with his wife discovering his body when she returned to their home following a trip away.
In December that year, a medical examiner's report obtained Monday by E! News listed his cause of death as hypertensive cardiovascular disease with chronic alcoholism listed as a contributory cause.
His manner of death was categorized as natural.
Captain Mark with some of his Below Deck crew (Twitter)Bravo, who created the show, released a statement in the wake of Mark's death.
The network said: "Our thoughts and sincerest sympathies are with the family and friends of the respected Captain Mark Howard.
"As the captain of the first season of Below Deck Med, he will always be remembered for his many contributions and mentorship and will forever remain part of the Bravo family."
Captain mark's co-stars and Below Deck fans were shocked and saddened by the sad news of his death.
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Captain Sandy Yawn, who has been in charge since season two, tweeted: "Such sad news. When I met him, I felt such a kindness. GodSpeed Captain Mark."
Below Deck Mediterranean star Tiffany Jones shared photos of herself with Captain Mark on Twitter (Twitter)Former chief stewardess Hannah Ferrier, who worked under Mark, uploaded a picture with the caption: "Rest In Peace my friend. You were a great captain, friend and colleague. Always the gentleman [heart emoji] You will be missed."
Alongside photos of herself with the late captain, season one co-star Tiffany Copeland wrote: "RIP Captain Mark Howard. You were a joy to be around"
One of the many fans sharing their sadness online tweeted: "Rest in Peace, Capt. Howard. You were a true gentleman."
"Noooooo!!! I love Capt. Mark! I wish Bravo had kept him as Captain on #BelowDeck," another added.
A third wrote: "I am so saddened to hear of Captain Mark Howard’s passing. He was very kind"