A brand-new luxury yacht worth nearly $1 million met a disastrous end this week when it tipped over and sank just minutes after being launched, leaving crew members scrambling for safety.
The dramatic incident unfolded at a marina in southern Italy, where onlookers watched in shock as the vessel was lowered into the water for the very first time. Video shared online shows the sleek white yacht initially bobbing steadily before suddenly rolling to one side, capsizing within seconds.
Witnesses say the crew had little time to react.
“It happened so fast — one moment it was floating, the next it was on its side,” one bystander told local media. “The crew had to jump into the water to save themselves.”
Emergency services were called to the scene, but reports indicate everyone aboard escaped unharmed. Divers were later seen inspecting the wreckage, which now sits partially submerged near the dock.
Authorities are investigating what caused the vessel to lose balance. Early theories point to possible weight distribution issues or a malfunction during the launch process. Naval engineers are expected to conduct a full inspection once the yacht is recovered.
The incident has already sparked conversations in the yachting community about safety protocols during launch. Maritime experts say even small miscalculations in design or ballast can lead to catastrophic instability.
