Recovery Operation: Sunken Bayesian Superyacht Resurfaces Near Sicily

The Bayesian superyacht, owned by British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, was raised from the seabed after sinking during severe weather a year ago, leading to ongoing investigations into its vulnerabilities and the tragic loss of life.

The luxury superyacht Bayesian has been successfully retrieved from the depths of the sea near Sicily, nearly a year after it tragically sank, resulting in the deaths of seven out of the 22 individuals aboard. Authorities in Italy have confirmed that the yacht will be suspended by crane for a series of inspections, as a vital part of the inquiry led by the public prosecutor's office. Following these inspections, it is expected that the vessel will be completely removed from the water.

The owner of the Bayesian was British tech mogul Mike Lynch, who, alongside his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah, perished in the incident, which also involved several other victims. A recent investigation revealed that neither Lynch nor the crew were aware of critical vulnerabilities, specifically that winds exceeding 73mph could cause the yacht to capsize.

Footage captured during the salvage operation on Wednesday shows the damaged hull of the 56m (183ft) vessel being lifted from the marine floor, covered in mud and debris. The name of the yacht can be faintly seen on the stern as it emerges from the depths. The yacht's transport to the nearby port of Termini Imerese is scheduled for Monday, where it will be examined by Italian prosecutors involved in the ongoing investigation.

Previous attempts to recover the yacht faced setbacks, including the tragic death of a diver amid the salvage efforts last month. A preliminary report conducted by the UK's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) revealed that winds exceeding 80mph impacted the vessel during its final moments, leading to swift flooding.

The MAIB's report was based on limited verified evidence due to ongoing accessibility issues with the wreck at the time. Investigations by both UK and Italian authorities continue, with the recovery of the yacht deemed essential for unraveling the circumstances surrounding the sinking.

The Bayesian had been moored off the picturesque Porticello when it sank in the early hours of August 19 last year. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the vessel disappear in a matter of minutes amid extreme weather conditions. The victims included British nationals Jonathan and Judy Bloomer, along with US lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife, Neda, and chef Recaldo Thomas from Canada. In contrast, 15 individuals were rescued, including Lynch's wife, Angela Bacares.