A devastating maritime incident has left seven individuals confirmed dead after the UK-flagged luxury yacht sank near Palermo, Sicily. The tragic event occurred during a severe storm on August 19 that generated dangerous waterspouts.
The superyacht, the Bayesian, was carrying 22 people when disaster struck. Salvage teams have since recovered seven bodies from the wreckage.
Authorities in Italy are actively investigating the incident, leading to speculation about potential faults with the yacht, as well as the decision-making actions of the captain and crew. Experts, however, suggest this could be an exceptional case of freak weather, indicating no specific party might be at fault.
Critical questions are emerging as investigators endeavor to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.
Was the Keel in the Correct Position?
Investigators will closely examine the yacht’s keel, a fin-like structure essential for stability. A retractable keel allows yachts to navigate shallower waters, but raising it makes the vessel significantly less stable.
The Bayesian was discovered submerged at a depth of 50 meters (164 feet), suggesting that there was no necessity for the keel to be retracted at that moment. However, experts assert that the presence of an elevated keel does not imply negligence on the part of the captain or crew. Without a substantial amount of water entering the boat, it should remain stable.
Officials are eager to establish the position of the keel at the time of the incident.
What Actions Were Taken by the Crew?
Captain James Cutfield has claimed he could not have predicted the sudden onset of the storm; however, weather forecasts had indicated adverse conditions. Experts call into question whether proper safety measures were implemented in light of the advance warning.
Reports suggest that a survivor indicated the yacht began to succumb to the storm mere minutes after they lost consciousness. Investigators will assess whether all onboard were properly secured with life jackets and whether access hatches remained closed during the storm.
Despite the yacht’s size, it is believed that open hatches alone could not have accounted for the vessel’s rapid sinking. Experts highlight the need to evaluate various potential water entry points.
The Italian Coast Guard is currently questioning the survivors and crew as part of an ongoing investigation, which may consider multiple avenues, including possible criminal negligence.
What Led to the Rapid Sinking?
Survivors have recounted that the Bayesian capsized in mere minutes, prompting significant inquiries into how such a rapid sinking occurred. Industry experts emphasize that for this yacht to sink so quickly, water must have infiltrated throughout its length.
Vessels of this nature are not built to withstand prolonged angles of 90 degrees, facilitating the immediate onset of flooding. There is speculation that a waterspout could have impacted the yacht, displacing a substantial volume of water and exacerbating its sinking.
Was the Weather a Factor in This Unfortunate Event?
Witnesses reported the formation of a waterspout during the storm leading up to the sinking. These phenomena, similar to tornadoes, occur over water and can be incredibly destructive. With rising sea temperatures linked to climate change, the frequency of such events may increase.
On August 19, there were multiple confirmed waterspouts off the Italian coast; although the likelihood of one hitting a vessel directly is low, the consequences can be dire. Experts suggest that even if there were issues concerning the yacht’s keel or hatches, the incident is likely attributed to an unprecedented weather occurrence.
