The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) reveals that the crew of the Bayesian superyacht was unaware of critical stability issues that led to its capsizing off Sicily last August, resulting in the deaths of seven, including British billionaire Mike Lynch and his daughter, Hannah. The 184ft vessel, valued at £30 million, faced devastating 80.6 mph winds that struck its beam, causing it to heel to a perilous 90 degrees. Preliminary findings indicate that a wind speed of 63.4 knots could have triggered the capsizing, as such dynamics were absent from the onboard stability documentation. MAIB Chief Inspector Andrew Moll elaborated that the extreme conditions were sufficient to cause irretrievable heeling, ultimately leading to the yacht’s tragic fate. Amidst ongoing investigations, which are hindered by legal constraints from Italian authorities, Giovanni Costantino, CEO of the yacht’s builder, previously attributed the catastrophe to human error. The investigation’s interim report describes the dire minutes leading to the incident and outlines unsafe conditions that contributed to the vessel’s compromised state. Recovery efforts for the sunken yacht resume as details of the harrowing rescue scenario emerge, enveloping victims and survivors in an agonizing narrative of a night gone wrong.
FAQ
What caused the Bayesian superyacht to sink?
The Bayesian capsized due to unexpected extreme winds of 80.6 mph, combined with prior vulnerabilities in its stability that the crew was unaware of.
How many people died in the Bayesian tragedy?
Seven people tragically lost their lives, including billionaire Mike Lynch and his daughter, Hannah.
What are the findings of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB)?
The MAIB found that high wind speeds could lead to capsizing, with critical stability information not available to the crew.
Is there an ongoing investigation into the sinking of the Bayesian?
Yes, an investigation is ongoing, but it is currently restricted by an Italian criminal inquiry, limiting access to evidence.
What is the current status of the Bayesian yacht?
Recovery operations for the sunken yacht are set to resume, following delays caused by safety incidents during prior efforts.
What role did human error play in the sinking?
Human error has been mentioned as a contributing factor, as suggested by the yacht’s builders, indicating inadequate decision-making during adverse weather.
When did the Bayesian sink?
The yacht capsized in the early hours of August 19, after it had anchored in anticipation of a storm.
What steps are being taken for recovery?
Plans to recover the yacht are underway, as investigations and safety measures continue to evolve following the incident.
Is there a stability manual for the Bayesian yacht?
Preliminary reports indicate that stability information critical to avoiding capsizing was not included in the yacht’s onboard materials.
How did the crew attempt to rescue passengers?
The crew activated emergency beacons and launched a liferaft, attempting to save passengers as the yacht sank. Survivors were later rescued by a nearby vessel.
