Bayesian Shipwreck: Wreck Recovery Scheduled for April 2025

The recovery of the wreck of the Bayesian, the sailing superyacht that sank on August 19, 2024, off the coast of Porticello, Sicily, has been officially scheduled for April 2025, with operations set to commence on the 20th. The process is expected to take approximately three weeks, weather permitting. This long-awaited operation has been meticulously planned to ensure the safety of operators and preserve the hull’s integrity, which is a key element in the ongoing investigation.

The Sinking and Tragedy Onboard

The Bayesian, a 56-meter sloop-rigged superyacht with a towering 75-meter mast, sank during a violent storm, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives, including British tycoon Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah. Other victims included couples Chris and Neda Morvillo, Jonathan and Judy Bloomer, and the yacht’s chef, Recaldo Thomas. Fortunately, fifteen people were rescued.

Details of the Recovery Operations

The wreck rests at a depth of 49 meters, lying on its starboard side. To facilitate its recovery, the towering mast will need to be cut at the boom level, as the rigging is partially embedded in the seabed. This operation has been authorized by the Prosecutor’s Office of Termini Imerese, which is leading the inquiry into the causes of the disaster. Once lifted, the wreck will be transferred to a hangar in the port of Termini Imerese for further forensic analysis.

Investigation and Theories on the Causes of the Shipwreck

The investigation, led by Prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio, is focusing on charges of involuntary manslaughter and negligent shipwreck. Three crew members are currently under investigation: New Zealand captain James Cutfield, British chief engineer Tim Parker Eaton, and deckhand Matthew Griffith, who was on watch at the time of the incident.

Over the months, numerous theories have emerged regarding the causes of the disaster. Initially, speculation centered around structural damage caused by the mast breaking. Later, a more widely accepted theory suggested that hatch doors and bulkheads were accidentally left open during the storm, allowing water ingress that compromised the yacht's stability. Other potential factors include design flaws, incorrect anchoring, and more. However, none of these theories have been conclusively proven. The examination of the wreck, once raised and transported ashore, will be crucial in determining the true cause of the disaster.

The Importance of Recovery for the International Yachting Industry

The recovery of the Bayesian is seen as a crucial step in the investigation and for the yachting world, once again underscoring the paramount importance of maritime safety. This tragic event has deeply affected the international yachting community, which, along with the victims’ families, is eagerly awaiting answers about what led to the catastrophe.

The salvage operations, entrusted to a specialized company, will require advanced equipment and sophisticated lifting technology to prevent further damage to the wreck. The entire maneuver will be closely monitored by experts and the Coast Guard.

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