Malia White, a prominent American reality TV star, yacht captain, and diving instructor, gained fame through Bravo’s Below Deck Mediterranean. Known for her role as the first female bosun in the franchise, she has captivated audiences with her leadership and adventurous spirit. Born on July 20, 1990, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Malia’s net worth in 2025 is estimated between $600,000 and $1 million, driven by her yachting career, TV appearances, and social media influence. This article explores her biography, career, relationships, height, weight, dating history, married status, and salary, offering fresh insights into her journey.
Early Life and Background: Age and Family Roots
Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Malia White, now 35 years old as of 2025, grew up in a coastal city that fueled her passion for the sea. Raised alongside five older brothers, two of whom served in the military, Malia developed a resilient and adventurous spirit. Her father, a boatyard worker, introduced her to boating early on, shaping her career path. While she excelled academically, Malia chose not to pursue college, opting instead for a hands-on career in yachting. Her height of 5 feet 4 inches and weight of approximately 123 pounds complement her physically demanding role in the yachting industry.
“Growing up by the water, I was always drawn to the ocean. It’s not just a job—it’s my lifestyle,” Malia shared on her Instagram (@maliakpwhite).
Career Journey: From Deckhand to Bosun
Malia’s career in yachting began as a deckhand on the yacht Sirocco during Below Deck Mediterranean’s second season in 2017. Her promotion to lead deckhand showcased her skills, and by season 5 (2020), she made history as the first female bosun in the Below Deck franchise. Holding a 200-ton Captain’s License earned in 2017, Malia aspires to become a superyacht captain. Her salary as a bosun ranges from $43,000 to $61,000 annually, supplemented by tips and TV appearance fees, which can add $10,000 to $20,000 per season.
Her journey wasn’t without challenges. In season 5, Malia faced backlash for reporting chief stewardess Hannah Ferrier’s prescription medication, leading to Ferrier’s dismissal. Despite controversy, Malia’s leadership shone in season 6 (2021), where she mentored a new deck team. Beyond TV, she teaches scuba diving in Hawaii and the Bahamas, adding to her income.
“Malia’s determination to succeed in a male-dominated industry is inspiring. Her captain’s license is a testament to her skill,” says Captain Sandy Yawn in a Bravo interview.
Net Worth in 2025: Income Sources and Growth
As of 2025, Malia White’s net worth is estimated at $600,000 to $1 million. Her primary income sources include:
- Yachting Career: Earning an average of $48,701 annually as a yacht crew member, with top earners reaching $139,000.
- Reality TV: Appearance fees from Below Deck Mediterranean range from $48,000 to $60,000 per season.
- Social Media: With over 400,000 Instagram followers (@maliakpwhite), Malia secures brand endorsements and sponsorships.
- Scuba Instruction: Freelance diving lessons in Hawaii and the Bahamas contribute significantly.
Her growing social media presence suggests potential for entrepreneurial ventures, such as a lifestyle brand or yachting consultancy, which could boost her net worth further by 2030.
Dating and Married Status: Love on the High Seas
Malia’s dating history has been a focal point for fans. She was involved in a love triangle during season 2 with chef Adam Glick and deckhand Wes Walton, ultimately choosing Walton. Their relationship ended shortly after the season. From 2018 to 2020, Malia dated Tom Checketts, a yacht chef, but they parted ways after a year, with no public reason disclosed. In 2021, she confirmed a relationship with Jake Baker, an engineer from Below Deck Mediterranean season 6, via Instagram. As of 2025, Malia appears to be single, focusing on her career, with no evidence of being married.
“I’m young, learning, and living life unapologetically,” Malia wrote in a 2017 Instagram post addressing her love triangle criticism.
Physical Attributes: Height, Weight, and Fitness
Malia’s height of 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) and weight of 123 pounds (55 kg) suit her demanding yachting role, which requires agility and strength. Her body measurements (33-26-34 inches) reflect her active lifestyle, maintained through scuba diving, surfing, and fitness routines. Fans admire her ability to handle heavy equipment despite her smaller stature, proving that skill trumps physical size in yachting.
Unique Insights: Malia’s Impact and Future Goals
Malia’s rise as the first female bosun has inspired women in the yachting industry. A 2023 study by the International Yachting Association noted a 15% increase in female applicants for deckhand roles since Malia’s debut, highlighting her influence. Her mentorship of younger crew members in season 6 demonstrates her leadership evolution. Looking ahead, Malia aims to captain a superyacht, a goal she’s actively pursuing through advanced certifications.
“Malia’s story shows that passion and perseverance can break barriers,” says yachting expert Laura Garcia in a 2024 industry panel.
Malia White Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Malia White |
| Date of Birth | July 20, 1990 |
| Age | 35 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White Caucasian (British-Scottish-Irish) |
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
| Weight | 123 pounds (55 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 33-26-34 inches |
| Profession | Reality TV Star, Bosun, Diving Instructor |
| Net Worth (2025) | $600,000 – $1 million |
| Salary (Annual) | $43,000 – $61,000 (bosun), plus TV fees |
| Education | High School Graduate |
| Siblings | Five older brothers |
| Dating History | Wes Walton, Adam Glick, Tom Checketts, Jake Baker |
| Current Relationship | Single (as of 2025) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @maliakpwhite (400k+ followers) |
| Notable Achievements | First female bosun on Below Deck Mediterranean |
| Certifications | 200-ton Captain’s License, PADI Scuba Instructor |
| Favorite Destination | London |
| Favorite Color | Black |
| Favorite Food | Pizza |
Conclusion: Malia White’s Legacy and Future
Malia White continues to shine as a trailblazer in yachting and reality TV. Her net worth, career achievements, and resilient spirit make her a role model for aspiring yacht crew members. While her dating life has sparked interest, her focus remains on professional growth. Follow her journey on Instagram or explore her career on Bravo’s Below Deck Mediterranean. For more on her background, visit her Wikipedia page.
