Powerful Crane Raises Sunken Superyacht Bayesian Off Sicily Coast
Nearly a year after a fierce storm claimed the lives of British tech leader Mike Lynch, his daughter, and several others, salvage teams have successfully raised the sunken superyacht Bayesian from the depths off Sicily’s coast. The vessel was lifted on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the recovery operation.
From the Depths: A 56-Metre Yacht Resurfaced
Using one of Europe’s most formidable maritime cranes, experts hauled the 56-metre (184-foot) yacht Bayesian from nearly 50 metres below the surface near Porticello, close to Palermo. After resurfacing, crews immediately started pumping out seawater as preliminary inspections revealed extensive damage on the upper decks, while the hull was heavily covered with mud and marine growth.
Tragic Origins and the Rescue Efforts Ahead
The yacht sank abruptly in August last year during a violent storm which unleashed wind gusts exceeding 117 km/h (73 mph). An interim report pointed to these severe conditions as the likely cause of the accident. At the time, the yacht was moored off Sicily when the ferocious winds knocked it over, claiming the lives of seven people aboard, including Lynch, his teenage daughter Hannah, and several guests and crew members.
The recovery operation was spearheaded by TMC Marine, collaborating with Dutch specialists from Hebo Maritiemservice. They successfully detached the yacht’s towering 72-metre mast remotely and placed it safely on the seabed earlier this week, paving the way for the main salvage.
Next Steps: Port Transfer and Ongoing Investigation
Following the lifting, the Bayesian will be held in a raised position over the weekend for thorough checks and necessary preparations. The yacht is scheduled to be transported to the nearby port of Termini Imerese on Monday. There, authorities will take custody of the vessel as part of a detailed investigation into the incident.
Remembering Those Lost
- Mike Lynch: Software company founder
- Hannah Lynch: Teenage daughter of Mike Lynch
- Chris Morvillo and his wife Neda
- Jonathan Bloomer, a banker, and his wife Judy
- Chef Recaldo Thomas
The tragedy also involved numerous rescued crew members and guests, highlighting the storm's sudden brutality.
This extensive salvage operation marks an essential chapter in uncovering the full story behind the Bayesian tragedy and providing closure for the families affected.
