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UK Report Reveals Wind Vulnerability in Superyacht Sinking That Killed Seven

The Bayesian capsized off Sicily in August 2024 due to hurricane-force gusts, with investigators citing undocumented stability risks as a key factor.

The Bayesian yacht (left), which capsized and sunk off the coast of Sicily in bad weather (Photo: Fabio La Bianca/PA Wire)
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The multi-purpose floating work barge Hebo Lift 2 monitors the stretch of sea off Porticello, near Palermo, Sicily, Italy, Sunday, May 4, 2025, where the British superyacht Bayesian sunk on August 19, 2024 as the operations for its recovery start.

Overview

  • The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) interim report attributes the Bayesian's sinking to extreme wind exceeding 70 knots and unrecognized stability vulnerabilities.
  • Seven people, including tech tycoon Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah, died when the yacht capsized in under 15 seconds during a sudden storm.
  • The yacht's stability booklet lacked critical wind-related data, leaving the crew and owner unaware of vulnerabilities while operating in a motoring condition.
  • Salvage operations were paused following the May 9 death of a diver, with recovery efforts resuming on May 15 under heightened scrutiny.
  • Families of victims, including chef Recaldo Thomas, are demanding deeper investigations into the yacht's design, certification, and crew decisions during the storm.