Here are the key points we’ll cover in the article:
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The dramatic salvage of Bayesian, Mike Lynch’s 56 -metre superyacht, nearly 10 months after her sinking near Sicily.
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The boat’s unexpected resilience showing remarkably intact condition.
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Dehler 47 2005$270,000 NZD2005 | 14.3 m Elegant, strong and proven world cruiser, the Dehler 47 has an award winning design. Beautifully crafted with a spacious interior, large master cabin and two roomy doubles. -
The role of Kiwi-born captain James Cutfield and his background.
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Technical and investigation insights: the mast, retractable keel, hidden stability limits, and possible open hatch.
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The salvage operation: TMC Marine, Hebo Lift 10, crane work, diver fatality, mast removal.
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Next steps: transportation to Termini Imerese, forensic examinations, ongoing criminal and Marine Accident and Investigation Branch (MAIB, UK) probes.
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Implications for yacht safety, extreme weather awareness in the Med, and lessons for local skippers and owners.
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In conclusion to her tragic capsize and sinking 10 months ago, the Bayesian, a 56-metre Perini Navi superyacht was successfully raised yesterday (20 June 2025) from 50 metres below the Tyrrhenian Sea near Porticello, Sicily. She has emerged in good condition, that’s nothing short of astonishing; her cleaned, upright hull belying the violent storm she endured in August 2024.
Originally built in 2008 and last refitted in 2020, the 56-metre superyacht capsized and sank in 15 seconds due to a freak downburst storm on 19 August 2024.Tragically seven lives were claimed—including Lynch and his 18‑year‑old daughter, Hannah. Fifteen guests and crew were rescued, including two Kiwis, a guest who worked with Lynch, and James Cutfield, the captain of the Bayesian.
James Cutfield, a kiwi captain in the spotlight
Cutfield, a 51‑year‑old master mariner was originally from Auckland’s North Shore, has been under Italian judicial investigation. As captain of the Bayesian, and responsible for the safety of those on board was questioned over decisions made on board that fateful night.
Cutfield is a seasoned professional with over 30 years in Mediterranean yachting, eight years as captain, and prior experience building vessels. His brother Mark describes him as “a very good sailor… very well respected”, and confirms he was safe but shaken by the incident.
Lifting Bayesian: complex salvage under scientific scrutiny
The salvage mission—carried out by TMC Marine, with Dutch expertise from Hebo Maritiemservice and Smit Salvage—began in May 2025. It faced delays after a Dutch diver died during underwater cutting phase. The operation involved detaching the world’s tallest aluminium mast (about 72 m/237 ft), securing the hull with eight steel straps, and bringing her upright to the surface using floating cranes.
By mid‑June, crews had succeeded in lifting the main hull, leaving the mast on the seabed for follow‑on recovery. The intact hull is now en-route to Termini Imerese, where authorities and forensic teams will continue.
What went wrong: hidden vulnerabilities revealed
Initial MAIB analysis and investigations showed that when afloat with the keel raised (as during anchorage), Bayesian’s stability unexpectedly dropped in winds above 63 knots—gusts likely reached 70–75 knots on that August morning. It is possible that an open side hatch or salon door may have permitted rapid water ingress; that combined with the huge mast triggered a 90° heel within 15 seconds.
Neither crew nor owner were aware of this condition; it was absent from Bayesian’s stability booklet. It suggests that despite her design as “unsinkable”, the combination of tall mast, adjustable keel, and heavy weather created a perilous cocktail.
What remains: lessons and inquiries ahead
As the hull is examined, Italian authorities continue a criminal investigation into possible manslaughter, probing crew decisions and adherence to protocols. The MAIB will also publish further findings.
For skippers cruising anywhere in the world, the Bayesian’s ordeal offers powerful lessons: ensure the keel is down even at anchor in volatile forecasts, manage massive rigs wisely, verify stability data, and know every access point is secure.
References
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Salvage & recovery details: Reuters, AP, FT, The Guardianwsj.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1es.wikipedia.org+12apnews.com+12en.wikipedia.org+12
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Kiwi captain info: NZ Herald
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Technical & MAIB insights: WSJ, Wikipedia, FT
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Diver fatality: Reuters, Wikipediaft.com
