Yacht CEO Blames Crew Errors for Fatal Sicily Shipwreck
A luxury yacht sank off Sicily's coast, claiming seven lives. The manufacturer's CEO attributes the tragedy to crew mistakes, citing failure to prepare for a forecasted storm. Investigations are ongoing.
Four days ago, a tragic incident unfolded off the northern coast of Sicily, resulting in the loss of seven lives, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch. The 56-meter superyacht Bayesian, carrying 22 individuals, capsized and sank rapidly after encountering a pre-dawn storm while anchored.
Giovanni Costantino, CEO of The Italian Sea Group, which includes Perini Navi, the yacht's manufacturer, spoke to Reuters today. He attributed the disaster to a "series of indescribable, unreasonable errors" by the crew. Costantino emphasized that the vessel took on water, leading to its sinking, but the exact entry point remains under investigation.
The Bayesian, constructed in 2008, had undergone two refits, with the most recent in 2020. Superyachts, defined as luxury vessels exceeding 24 meters in length, are typically equipped with advanced navigation systems and safety features. However, Costantino ruled out design or construction flaws, noting the yacht's 16 years of trouble-free operation in more severe weather conditions.
Costantino criticized the crew's lack of preparedness for the forecasted storm, describing it as an "incredible mistake." Maritime forecasts play a crucial role in safe navigation, especially in the Mediterranean, where weather patterns can change rapidly. The CEO outlined proper storm preparation procedures, including:
- Summoning passengers from cabins
- Assembling at a designated safety point
- Raising the anchor
- Securing doors and hatches
- Lowering the keel for increased stability
These steps align with standard safety protocols that yacht crews typically undergo extensive training to implement.
Notably, another yacht anchored nearby escaped unharmed, highlighting the potential effectiveness of proper storm preparation. The Mediterranean Sea, with an average depth of 1,500 meters, can present challenging conditions for vessels.
Italian prosecutors are investigating the incident, with a press conference scheduled in two days. Maritime law mandates thorough incident reporting and investigation procedures, often involving multiple agencies and countries.
"This is the mistake that cries out for vengeance."
As the search continues for the body of Lynch's daughter Hannah, this tragedy underscores the critical importance of adherence to safety protocols and weather preparedness in maritime operations. The incident has likely prompted discussions within the yachting industry about enhancing safety measures and crew training to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
