ROME (AP) — The recovery operation of a superyacht that sank off the Sicilian coast last year encountered a significant setback following the tragic death of a specialist diver. This unfortunate incident occurred while the diver was working underwater, prompting the overseeing company, TMC Marine, to announce the temporary suspension of all recovery operations.
The yacht, named Bayesian, sank in August 2024 during a powerful storm that affected its passengers, including U.K. tech magnate Mike Lynch and his daughter, Hannah. The vessel has remained submerged at a depth of 49 meters (approximately 160 feet). Reports indicate that another group of notable individuals, such as Jonathan Bloomer, Chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and attorney Chris Morvillo, also perished in this incident alongside their spouses and the ship's cook, Recaldo Thomas.
In a statement, TMC Marine explained that halting the recovery effort is necessary to facilitate investigations into the diver's death and to permit team members to grieve the loss of a highly respected salvage diver who died while working on site. The local authorities, specifically the Palermo Port Authority, are leading the investigation but have refrained from commenting on the cause of death.
As part of the salvage operation that commenced in May 2025, the crew aimed to refloat the yacht using one of the most powerful maritime cranes available in Europe. Initial plans included cutting down the yacht's 75-meter (246-foot) aluminum mast — noted as the second tallest in the world — to ease the retrieval process. Originally, the recovery was estimated to take between 20 to 25 days.
Investigators are currently analyzing why the Bayesian, a vessel deemed “unsinkable” by its manufacturer, Perini Navi, sank unexpectedly amid a storm, while a nearby sailboat navigated the conditions without sustaining significant damage. The local prosecutor's office has sealed off the area surrounding the site of the diver’s death, as authorities delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding both the sinking of the yacht and the diver's fatal incident.
The Bayesian sank amid what appeared to be a localized downdraft, a powerful wind phenomenon associated with thunderstorms. Prosecutors have initiated proceedings to determine possible responsibility among the yacht's captain and two crew members in relation to the tragic sinking.
This tragic event has captured significant attention not only because of the high-profile individuals involved but also due to the mysterious circumstances surrounding the vessel's sinking. As the investigative process continues, many are left questioning how an elite luxury yacht like the Bayesian could meet such a fate, further intensifying the scrutiny of maritime safety standards.
Giada Zampano, writing for The Associated Press, reported on this unfolding situation, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by salvage operations in light of the ongoing investigations and the mourning of those affected by this tragedy.
