Sunken Superyacht Bayesian Set for Recovery in Two Weeks
Recovery Operation for Tech Tycoon Mike Lynch’s Superyacht Begins
The salvage operation to raise tech billionaire Mike Lynch’s sunken superyacht, the Bayesian, is set to take place off the coast of Sicily within the next two weeks. This follows the tragic sinking of the 56-meter vessel on August 19 last year, which resulted in the loss of seven lives, including Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah.
Italian authorities have endorsed a comprehensive salvage plan, allowing recovery efforts to proceed this month. The operation will be overseen by TMC Marine, a British marine consultancy, and executed by a specialized consortium including Dutch companies Hebo and SMIT Salvage, alongside support from Italian experts.
Approximately 70 specialists from across Europe have been mobilized to assist in this complex recovery mission. As of Thursday, the salvage team reported that preparations were progressing well, with substantial advancements made over the past five days.
A multi-purpose floating barge, known as the Hebo Lift 2, equipped with advanced diving systems and remotely-operated vehicles, reached the site near Porticello on Saturday. Following a recent assessment of the superyacht and the surrounding seabed, it has been confirmed that the vessel remains in stable condition, paving the way for the salvage operation to move forward.
Within the next 10 to 12 days—weather and sea conditions permitting—operations will begin to reposition the Bayesian upright for lifting. The recovery will involve pumping seawater out of the yacht before it is transported back to port.
Prior to the raising of the vessel, workers will secure it using steel slings while detaching its extensive rigging, including its impressive 72-meter mast, believed to be one of the tallest in the world.
As this significant recovery operation unfolds, it marks a pivotal moment in addressing the aftermath of a tragedy that shook the maritime community and the tech industry alike.
