Fact Check: "The yacht's 236-foot mast was cut off and left on the seabed."
What We Know
The claim that the yacht's 236-foot mast was cut off and left on the seabed is supported by multiple credible sources. The British superyacht, known as the Bayesian, sank off the coast of Sicily in August 2023, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives, including tech magnate Mike Lynch and his daughter. According to reports, the mast, measuring 72 meters (236 feet), was indeed cut off during salvage operations to facilitate the recovery of the yacht's hull. The salvage company, TMC Marine, confirmed that the mast was left on the seabed for future removal as part of the recovery process (Washington Post, ABC News).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim comes from reliable news outlets such as the Washington Post and ABC News, both of which reported on the salvage operation and the decision to cut the mast. These sources are reputable and provide detailed accounts of the events surrounding the sinking and recovery of the Bayesian.
The cutting of the mast was a strategic decision to allow the hull to be positioned upright, which expedited the recovery process by approximately one week. The decision to leave the mast on the seabed indicates a planned approach to the salvage operation, which is common in maritime recovery efforts, especially when dealing with large vessels in challenging underwater environments.
The reports also mention that the mast was cut to assist in lifting the yacht from a depth of 50 meters (164 feet), further corroborating the claim. The information provided by TMC Marine, the salvage company, adds to the credibility of the reports, as they are directly involved in the recovery operation.
Conclusion
Verdict: True. The claim that the yacht's 236-foot mast was cut off and left on the seabed is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The decision to cut the mast was a necessary step in the recovery process of the Bayesian, which tragically sank in August 2023.
