The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) reported that the superyacht owned by tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch sank after experiencing winds of approximately 117 km/h. These winds led to a situation where the yacht lost stability on its right side.
Investigators highlighted that Bayesians, like Lynch’s yacht, can be particularly sensitive to strong winds while operating their engines. It seems that neither the owner nor the crew were aware of these vulnerabilities.
The tragic incident occurred just before a storm on August 19, 2024, off the coast of Porticello Porticelro, Palermo, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, including Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah.
Fifteen people were rescued, among them Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares.
To understand the yacht’s stability, local weather conditions at the time were evaluated. MAIB commissioned a stability study by the Wolfson Unit at the University of Southampton, focusing on marine technology and industrial aerodynamics.
The researchers created a stability model, which, as per the report, involved recreating the yacht’s stability information and adjusting it to reflect the conditions on the night of the sinking. This involved simulating electromechanical conditions and adjusting the central board.
The findings indicated that fast-moving mesocyclonic thunderstorms generated temporary hurricane-force gusts, causing the yacht to tilt beyond 90 degrees in under 15 seconds, ultimately resulting in capsizing. The report noted, “If the yacht exceeds a 70-degree angle, it becomes irretrievably heeled.”
MAIB investigator Simon Graves remarked to reporters that the wind’s force could compromise the vessel’s stability, reinforcing the notion that high winds were likely instrumental in the accident.
Investigators noted that there were no visible signs of flooding on the yacht, but water entered through the right side rail and quickly moved into the interior space beneath the stairs.
MAIB mentioned that the report was based on a limited amount of verified evidence, as ongoing criminal investigations by Italian authorities restrict access to the wreck and other relevant evidence.
Future details regarding escape routes will be included in the final report, which will be released only after further access to the ship.
The complete investigation report is expected to take up to 12 months to finalize.
The wreck currently rests at a depth of 50 meters in Porticero Bay.
Recovery efforts, which began in early May, were halted following the death of a diver during underwater operations.
Preparatory work to resume recovery efforts is set to begin on Thursday.
