Hannah Lynch Incident: Key Insights on Superyacht Safety and Crew Responsibilities

The Background of the Hannah Lynch Incident

The manufacturer of the superyacht involved in the tragic incident off Sicily, which resulted in the deaths of UK tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and others, asserts that the yacht was 'absolutely safe' and that the crew had sufficient time to evacuate passengers.

Manufacturer's Statement

Giovanni Costantino, chief executive of The Italian Sea Group, emphasized that the Bayesian was designed for stability and had a significant mast. He stated that the yacht sank due to improper procedures, suggesting a bathing platform could have been left open, flooding the vessel.

Investigation Insights

• The Italian coastguard confirmed the hull was intact.
• It was stated that the boat began taking on water, but the exact timing remains unclear.
• Initial testimonies suggest that emergency protocols might not have been followed correctly.

Timeline of Events

Costantino reported that once the boat began dragging its anchor due to the wind, 16 minutes elapsed before it sank, which should have been adequate time for the crew to secure the vessel and ensure passenger safety.

Survivor Accounts

Karsten Borner, skipper of a nearby vessel, recounted how he successfully managed his boat during the same conditions, urging that the Bayesian crew could have acted more decisively. He assisted in rescuing the 15 survivors from the water.

What Went Wrong?

Costantino criticized the captain's response, highlighting that critical safety protocols were neglected during the emergency, potentially contributing to the tragedy. He argued that procedural adherence could have led to a different outcome.

Concluding Thoughts

The tragic sinking of the Bayesian, associated with the high-profile Hannah Lynch case, has raised pressing questions about yacht safety protocols and crew training. This incident serves as a serious reminder of the importance of maritime safety.