Mike Lynch Superyacht Sinks Off Sicily Killing Seven

The superyacht Bayesian, owned by tech billionaire Mike Lynch, sank off the coast of Sicily in August last year due to extreme winds that overwhelmed the vessel's stability. Investigations by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) revealed that winds exceeding 70 knots rapidly pushed the yacht beyond a 70-degree heel, causing an irrecoverable capsize and flooding through the starboard rails. The yacht's stability information did not account for vulnerabilities to such high winds, especially when operating under engine power with sails lowered and the centreboard raised, leaving the owner and crew unaware of these risks. A sudden mesocyclonic thunderstorm with hurricane-force gusts was identified as the cause of the disaster, which claimed seven lives, including Lynch and his daughter Hannah. The rapid onset of the storm and delayed captain alert contributed to the tragedy, as passengers and crew struggled to evacuate in the dark. Rescuers later recovered all victims, and the investigation continues to refine its findings.