British Mother ‘Screamed for Help’ While Clinging to Daughter as Yacht Sank

A British mother, identified only as Charlotte, has recounted the harrowing experience of surviving the sinking of the £14 million yacht, Bayesian, off the coast of Sicily.

In an interview with the Italian newspaper ‘La Repubblica’, Charlotte described the terrifying moments as the vessel went down, holding her one-year-old daughter, Sofia, above the water to prevent her from drowning. “I screamed for help, but all I could hear around me was the screams of others,” she said.

The Bayesian, a luxurious and award-winning yacht, sank early this morning near Porticello on the Italian island. The vessel, capable of accommodating up to 12 guests in six suites and having a crew of 10, was known for its impressive design. Built in 2008 by the Italian company Perini, the yacht featured a 75-metre mast, the tallest aluminium mast in the world, and had undergone a refit in 2020.

Previously named “Salute,” the yacht was managed by Camper & Nicholsons.

As the search and rescue operation continues, four British citizens are among the seven people still missing. The Italian Coast Guard has rescued 15 individuals, including Charlotte and Sofia, who were treated at Di Cristina paediatric hospital in Palermo.

Charlotte sustained a chest injury requiring stitches, while Sofia escaped without any injuries. Charlotte’s husband, James, was taken to a different hospital in Palermo, where staff provided their phones to help the family stay in touch.

A spokesperson for Camper & Nicholsons stated that the company fully supports the ongoing rescue efforts, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Sola Adeniji

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