Superyacht Bayesian Salvaged After Deadly Sinking; Investigation Launched
Porticello, Sicily – After months submerged off the Sicilian coast, the superyacht *Bayesian*, linked to a catastrophic sinking last year, has been successfully raised from the seabed. The vessel, connected to a tragic incident where lives where lost, is now subject to intense scrutiny as investigators seek to uncover the reasons behind the disaster.
The complex operation culminated wiht the *Bayesian* fully out of the water. It will be transported to Termini Imerese for forensic examination.
Raising The Superyacht: A Delicate Operation
The white top and blue hull of the *Bayesian* emerged from the sea to sit in the holding area of a yellow floating crane barge. David Wilson, spokesperson for TMC Maritime, detailed the meticulous process. The raising of the *Bayesian* was a gradual endeavor, involving careful lifting and resting procedures to ensure the structural integrity of the vessel during the salvage.
Over the course of three days, the *Bayesian* was slowly raised from its watery grave, located 50 meters (165ft) below the surface. Steel lifting straps, slings, and harnesses were strategically secured under the keel to support the delicate operation.
Pro Tip: Salvage operations are extremely sensitive to weather conditions. Unexpected shifts can pose significant risks to both the vessel being recovered and the personnel involved.
Investigation Into The Sinking
The recovery of the *Bayesian* marks a crucial step forward in the investigation into its sinking. Investigators hope the yacht will yield clues about the causes of the sinking. A forensic examination will seek to determine whether one of the hatches remained open and whether the keel was improperly raised.
Prosecutors have opened an inquiry into suspected manslaughter. The boat’s captain,James Cutfield,from New Zealand,and two British crew members,Tim Parker eaton and Matthew Griffiths,have been placed under investigation.
Preliminary Findings and Potential Causes
According to a preliminary safety report released last month by the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), the *Bayesian* may have been vulnerable to high winds when running on its engine.
These “vulnerabilities” were “unknown to either the owner or the crew” as they were not included in the stability information book onboard. The MAIB saeid a possible “tornadic waterspout” headed towards the boats in the harbour. The docks seemed to divert the whirlwind, which went straight towards the *Bayesian*, and the vessel sank within a few seconds.
The operation, which has cost approximately $30m (£22m), was made easier after the vessel’s 72-metre mast was detached using a remote-controlled cutting tool and placed on the seabed. Eight steel lifting straps were being used to support the hull upright.
Key Participants in the investigation
Several key figures are involved in determining the causes of the *bayesian*’s sinking.
- investigators: Forensics experts are examining the vessel.
- James Cutfield: The boat’s captain from New Zealand.
- Tim Parker Eaton and Matthew Griffiths: Two British crew members.
Cost of the operation
The salvage operation cost approximately $30 million (£22 million).
Past Context of Superyacht Salvage Operations
Salvaging a superyacht like the *Bayesian* is a complex and costly endeavor. Recent advancements in technology have improved the efficiency and safety of these operations. Underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and advanced sonar systems now play a crucial role in assessing the condition of submerged vessels and planning salvage strategies.
Did You Know? The *Costa Concordia* salvage operation,completed in 2014,remains one of the most expensive maritime salvage operations in history,costing over $1.2 billion.
The *Bayesian* superyacht salvage highlights the challenges and complexities inherent in recovering large vessels from the seabed. The investigation seeks to provide answers and prevent future tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bayesian Superyacht Salvage
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Why was the *Bayesian* superyacht salvaged?
The *Bayesian* superyacht was salvaged to allow investigators to examine the vessel and determine the cause of its sinking.
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Where will the superyacht *bayesian* be examined?
The *Bayesian* will be transported to the port of Termini Imerese,where investigators will conduct their examination.
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Who is involved in the investigation of the *Bayesian* superyacht sinking?
The boat’s captain, James Cutfield, from New Zealand, and two British crew members, tim Parker Eaton and Matthew Griffiths, have been placed under investigation.
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What safety report has been released regarding the *Bayesian* superyacht?
A preliminary safety report released by the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) stated that the *Bayesian* may have been vulnerable to high winds when running on its engine.
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What is the estimated cost of salvaging the superyacht *Bayesian*?
The operation to salvage the *Bayesian* is estimated to have cost approximately $30 million (£22 million).
What factors do you think contributed most to the sinking of the *Bayesian*? How can similar incidents be prevented in the future?
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