In a decisive move, The Italian Sea Group S.P.A. (TISG) has announced that it will be pursuing legal action against The New York Times following an article published on October 31, 2024. The company claims that the piece contained serious inaccuracies regarding the sinking of its yacht, the Bayesian, which has tarnished the reputation of the renowned Perini Navi brand, known for its excellence in luxury yachting.
In its statement, TISG asserted that the article lacked technical accuracy and failed to credit qualified sources for its claims. The company emphasized that it acquired the Perini Navi brand and related assets in January 2021 and thus cannot be held accountable for events prior to that acquisition.
Addressing specific claims made in the article:
Sloop vs. Ketch Stability: TISG refuted allegations relating to the stability of the single-mast design, asserting that the Bayesian fully complies with stability standards set by the Maritime Coastguard Agency.
Expert Opinions: The company questioned the validity of unnamed experts cited in the article, insisting that the Bayesian’s design was developed by esteemed naval architect Ron Holland, thereby ensuring a reliable design.
Watertight Doors: TISG clarified that the watertight doors mentioned in the article meet regulatory requirements and can only allow water ingress under improper operation.
Responsibility for Vulnerabilities: TISG stated that any alleged vulnerabilities reported were likely the result of operational errors rather than design flaws.
Ballast Considerations: The company defended the design of the ballast system, asserting that it was strategically placed to balance the yacht without compromising safety.
Deck Design: TISG contested claims regarding the deck design affecting buoyancy, stating that such factors are regulated and do not violate safety standards.
Regulatory Compliance: The company highlighted that the Bayesian's stability booklet has received MCA approval, confirming compliance with international standards.
Wind Conditions During Incident: TISG provided further technical data, asserting that anticipated heeling angles during adverse weather do not support claims of inherent design flaws.
In summary, TISG declared that the Bayesian is unsinkable when operated under proper sailing conditions and expressed confidence that ongoing investigations will clarify the circumstances of the incident.
The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters.
Credit: The Italian Sea Group; Yacht Harbour archive