Raquel “Rocky” Dakota, a vibrant personality from Below Deck Season 3, captured attention with her dynamic energy and dramatic moments on the Eros yacht. Fans searching for updates on Rocky Dakota’s age, net worth, married status, salary, height, weight, and dating life will find this comprehensive guide answers all their questions. Since leaving the show in 2015, Rocky has transformed her life, moving away from yachting to embrace a multifaceted career and personal growth in Hawaii. This article dives into her journey, offering fresh insights, updated information, and a unique perspective on her post-show life.
Who Is Raquel ‘Rocky’ Dakota? Biography and Early Life
Raquel Dakota, born on October 16, 1988, is currently 36 years old as of August 2025. Raised in California, she grew up in an aquatic-centric family, with her mother, Jericho Poppler, a world champion surfer, and her father, a respected surgeon. This environment fostered Rocky’s passion for water sports, leading her to become a competitive national diver and surfer. She earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Hawaii, graduating with a BA in U.S. History. Her adventurous spirit and athletic prowess were evident on Below Deck, where she worked as a third stewardess.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Raquel Bartlow Dakota |
| Age | 36 (Born October 16, 1988) |
| Height | Approximately 5’6” (1.68 m) |
| Weight | Estimated 120-130 lbs (54-59 kg) |
| Birthplace | California, USA |
| Education | BA in U.S. History, University of Hawaii |
| Parents | Jericho Poppler (mother), Surgeon (father) |
| Siblings | Sophia Tiare Bartlow (deceased) |
| Known For | Below Deck Season 3, Competitive Diving, Surfing |
| Current Residence | Oahu, Hawaii |
Rocky’s Below Deck Journey: Drama, Romance, and Controversy
Rocky Dakota joined Below Deck Season 3 in 2015 as a third stewardess on the Eros yacht, working under Captain Lee Rosbach and Chief Stew Kate Chastain. Her tenure was marked by high energy but also conflict, particularly with Kate Chastain, whom she blamed for the firing of her friend, Chef Leon Walker. Rocky’s infamous “boatmance” with Bosun Eddie Lucas, who had a girlfriend at the time, stirred drama, especially when she revealed their laundry room encounters, leading to Eddie’s denial and public backlash. Her attempt to quit by diving off the yacht in her underwear became a memorable moment, showcasing her rebellious streak.
Despite her polarizing presence, Rocky’s athletic skills shone through, with perfect dives off the yacht highlighting her diving expertise. However, her culinary attempts, like grenadine oysters and Oreo-crusted salads, were less successful, famously causing a guest to vomit. Her exit after Season 3 marked the end of her yachting career, as she sought a life aligned with her passions.
Where Is Rocky Dakota Now? Current Career and Lifestyle
Since leaving Below Deck, Rocky Dakota has relocated to Oahu, Hawaii, where she moved in December 2016. She has transitioned from yachting to a diverse career, leveraging her athletic background and newfound passions. Rocky is now a certified yoga instructor, professional surfer, and competitive diver, embracing Hawaii’s ocean-centric lifestyle. She also works as a massage and energy therapist, blending holistic wellness with her love for the outdoors. Her Instagram (@raqueldakota) showcases her surfing adventures, yoga sessions, and patriotic posts, including a recent video in an American flag bikini.
Rocky’s net worth is estimated at $200,000-$300,000 in 2025, derived from her freelance chef work, modeling for yacht brochures, and wellness-related ventures. While her Below Deck salary as a third stewardess likely ranged from $3,000-$5,000 per charter season, her current income streams reflect her entrepreneurial spirit. Her height (5’6”) and weight (120-130 lbs) complement her active lifestyle, evident in her social media posts of slack-lining and hiking.
Is Rocky Dakota Married or Dating? Love Life Updates
Rocky Dakota’s love life has stabilized since her tumultuous Below Deck days. After her controversial fling with Eddie Lucas, she began dating Mark in 2016. The couple, who share a love for outdoor activities like hiking and surfing, appeared happy in Rocky’s Instagram posts, often captioned with “Mark & Rock.” However, a 2025 Instagram video hinted at potential challenges in their relationship, though no official breakup has been confirmed. As of now, Rocky is not married, and her focus seems to be on personal growth and career.
Her past relationship with Eddie Lucas remains a cautionary tale. In a 2020 Below Deck 100th Episode Special, Rocky reflected on the fling, noting it was a learning experience. She has since distanced herself from Below Deck castmates, tweeting, “Connie NEVER calls me & I DONT hang w Capt. Lee!!” Her current relationship status aligns with her desire for authenticity and stability.
The Tragic Loss of Rocky’s Sister: A Turning Point
In January 2017, Rocky faced a devastating loss when her younger sister, Sophia Tiare Bartlow, died in a tragic car accident on Oahu’s North Shore. Sophia, a stand-up paddle-board champion, was only 27 and shared Rocky’s birthday. The accident, caused by her boyfriend driving under the influence without a seatbelt, profoundly impacted Rocky. She organized a memorial paddle-out, spreading Sophia’s ashes in the ocean, a moment that resonated with Hawaii’s surfing community.
This tragedy led Rocky to embrace Christianity, a shift from her Below Deck days where religion was not prominent. She frequently shares Bible verses and inspirational quotes on Instagram, reflecting her spiritual growth. Rocky has been vocal about her grief, encouraging others to process loss openly. She told Bravo in 2019, “It’s true what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” highlighting her resilience.
Rocky’s Net Worth and Financial Journey
Rocky Dakota’s net worth of $200,000-$300,000 reflects her diverse income sources post-Below Deck. Her freelance chef work in Florida, modeling gigs, and wellness ventures contribute to her financial stability. Unlike her yachting days, where her salary was modest, Rocky has capitalized on her skills to build a sustainable career. Her move to a vegan lifestyle and yoga certification, earned in the Netherlands, underscores her commitment to holistic living, which likely attracts clients to her therapy services.
Unique Insights: Rocky’s Impact and Legacy
Rocky’s time on Below Deck sparked discussions about authenticity in reality TV. Her unfiltered personality, while divisive, made her a memorable figure. A 2023 fan poll on Reddit revealed 47% of viewers found her “entertaining but chaotic,” while 32% called her “attention-seeking.” Her story resonates with underdogs, as she overcame a poor edit to redefine her life. Rocky’s embrace of faith and wellness offers a fresh perspective on healing from public scrutiny and personal tragedy.
Her social media presence, with 68,000 Instagram followers, shows her influence endures. Unlike many reality stars, Rocky avoids the spotlight, focusing on a life aligned with her values. Her journey from yacht drama to spiritual and athletic fulfillment is a testament to resilience, making her a compelling figure beyond Below Deck.
