Six bodies found after Bayesian superyacht sinks off Sicily coast
Rescue efforts face challenges at 50m depth, blocked cabins complicate search
The search for those missing after the sinking of the Bayesian superyacht has encountered numerous challenges. Six bodies have been recovered off the coast of Sicily following the luxury vessel’s sinking early on Monday, with one person still missing.
Marco Tilotta, a diver leading the search and rescue effort for the Bayesian superyacht, reported continuous efforts since Monday despite “prohibitive” underwater conditions. The British-flagged superyacht remains largely intact at a depth of 50 meters, complicating access. This depth exceeds the capabilities of most recreational divers and requires special precautions.
Divers can only spend around 12 minutes underwater, with a maximum of 10 minutes for actual searching, to avoid decompression sickness. Simon Rogerson, editor of SCUBA magazine, explained that longer underwater stays necessitate slower ascents. Additionally, divers face cold and dark conditions. A tag-team method is used to rotate divers.
Challenges with the dive
Reaching the wreckage is just the beginning of the challenges. The 56-meter vessel is on its right side, offering few entry points. Divers cannot see inside from the outside. Luca Cari of Italy’s fire and rescue department mentioned divers entered through the lounge via a ladder and opened a hole in the boat’s side. They also searched the command bridge, filled with electrical cables, but found no one. Divers identified a 3cm thick glass window that had to be removed for access.
The Bayesian superyacht sank at around 4.30am local time on Monday. Many of the 22 people on board were likely asleep. Rescuers believe those missing are in cabins below deck, but divers have been hindered by furniture blocking the way. Two bodies were found behind mattresses on Wednesday, according to Italian media.
Specialist divers and remote-controlled underwater devices are assisting the search. An Italian coastguard drone can stay at a depth of 50m for about two hours, while an upgraded version can last six to seven hours at 300m. This technology records detailed images and aids in reconstructing the event. Former Royal Navy submarine captain Ryan Ramsey praised the drones as “amazing pieces of technology”. Dr Jamie Pringle from Keele University noted the devices’ usefulness in guiding divers on areas to explore or avoid.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The New York Times reports that divers recover bodies from the superyacht of tech mogul Mike Lynch, which sank off Sicily, sparking questions about the rapid sinking.(read more)
- CNN reports on the tragic sinking of the Bayesian yacht off Sicily, detailing the storm that caused the incident, the rescue efforts, and the recovery of bodies.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is the superyacht search operation so difficult?
The wreckage lies at 50m depth, requiring special precautions and limiting divers to short search times.
How deep is the sunken superyacht?
The superyacht is at a depth of 50 meters.
What challenges do divers face when entering the yacht?
Divers must navigate the yacht lying on its side, blocked cabins, and thick glass windows.
What technology is being used to aid the search?
Remote-controlled underwater devices and drones are being used to record images and guide divers.
Why can’t divers spend a long time underwater?
To avoid decompression sickness, divers limit their underwater time to around 10 minutes per dive.
