The search operation for the sunken superyacht Bayesian has entered its fifth day, revealing the extreme challenges faced by specialist divers. According to experts, the process is painstakingly slow, with divers requiring up to 24 hours to search just one meter of the vessel.
Luca Cari, a spokesperson for the Italian fire rescue service, emphasized the difficulty of maneuvering within the wreckage. The luxury yacht, which sank on August 19, 2024, after being struck by a waterspout, now lies at a 90-degree angle, further complicating the search efforts.
The operation has drawn comparisons to the Costa Concordia disaster of January 13, 2012. In both cases, divers have had to navigate inverted corridors, floating debris, and complex internal structures. Marco Tilotta, a firefighter diver from Palermo, described the search as proceeding "centimeter by centimeter" due to the challenging conditions.
The Bayesian, a superyacht typically over 24 meters in length, was carrying 22 passengers and crew when it sank. Fifteen individuals, including Angela Bacares, wife of technology tycoon Mike Lynch, were rescued by emergency crews. The remaining six, including Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah Lynch, were initially unaccounted for.
The Italian Coast Guard, responsible for maritime search and rescue operations in Italy, confirmed that all six missing individuals have been located within the vessel. However, the recovery process remains extremely challenging.
The incident occurred during a celebration of Mike Lynch's recent court victory in San Francisco, where he was acquitted of fraud charges. This tragic turn of events highlights the unpredictable nature of maritime travel, even for luxury vessels.
"We will not stop. We have both the resources, the men, and the equipment."
The search operation serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with maritime travel and the importance of yacht safety regulations. In recent years, these regulations have been tightened following several high-profile incidents. The Mediterranean Sea, known for its sudden weather changes, can pose unexpected dangers such as the waterspout that caused this tragedy.
As the operation continues, the psychological impact on the rescue divers involved in this challenging recovery mission cannot be understated. Their dedication to the task, despite the difficulties, is a testament to their professionalism and commitment to bringing closure to the families affected by this tragic event.