The first elements of tech mogul Mike Lynch's sunken superyacht have been raised to the surface off the coast of Sicily.
Bayesian's main boom, the pole supporting the bottom of the sail, and the anchor were recovered from the ocean floor.
Rescuers used a diamond cutter to cut away the boom, sail and furling mechanism at the mast, after which they were lifted onto the floating barge Hebo Lift 2 – a multi-purpose vessel equipped with underwater systems and a remotely operated vehicle, as well as an auxiliary tug.
A remotely controlled underwater vehicle was then used to cut one of the ship's anchor chains, allowing it to be raised to the surface.
The pieces are to be towed to nearby Termini Imerese, the town where Italian prosecutors are investigating the sinking, and brought ashore.
The additional specialist equipment required for the final lifting of the Bayesian vessel will be loaded onto the Hebo Lift 10, which is capable of lifting up to 5,695 tonnes and is considered one of the most powerful offshore cranes in Europe.
Rescue experts from Dutch companies Hebo and SMIT Salvage are increasing their use of remotely operated tools following a tragic incident on May 9 in which a diver died during underwater work.
Additional equipment and personnel, including another remotely operated vehicle, are arriving from across Europe.
Meanwhile, work is underway to secure the Bayes vents and tanks to reduce the risk of contamination during future operations.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
