A luxury yacht, identified as the British-registered Bayesian, sank off the coast of Palermo, Sicily, on Monday after being hit by a violent storm, resulting in one death and six missing individuals, according to the Italian coast guard.
The 184-ft sailboat, carrying 22 people, sank shortly before sunrise. Among the missing are individuals of British, American, and Canadian nationality. The 15 rescued included a one-year-old child. A coast guard official in Palermo noted that the storm's intensity was unexpected despite forecasts of bad weather.
Recent days have seen storms and heavy rainfall across Italy, causing significant damage due to floods and landslides in the north. Eight of the rescued were hospitalized, all in stable condition. A nearby boat captain, Karsten Borner, recounted how his crew managed to maintain control during the storm and later found survivors on a life raft.
Among the survivors were a baby and the wife of the yacht's owner, while the owner and another child are among the missing. The sunken yacht was located at a depth of 49 meters, and an investigation has been opened by local prosecutors to determine the cause of the incident.
The Bayesian, built by Italian shipbuilder Perini in 2008 and last refitted in 2020, was managed by yachting company Camper & Nicholsons. It was known for its design awards and could accommodate up to 12 guests and a crew of 10. The yacht, formerly known as Salute, featured the world's tallest aluminum mast.
The UK Foreign Ministry has stated that British officials are in contact with local authorities and stand ready to provide consular support to affected Britons.
