One dead, six missing after luxury superyacht sinks in storm off Sicily

A helicopter and rescue boats from the coast guard, carabinieri, fire brigade and civil protection service were at the scene searching for the missing and located the wreckage at a depth of 50 meters (163 feet). The boat capsized around 5am off Porticello harbour.

Experienced deep-water divers were arriving at the scene to try to enter the hull, he said. One crew member and six passengers were among those not rescued, the coast guard said.

Local media said a fierce storm, including water spray, hit the area overnight, but skies were clear and seas calm by Monday morning.

The ANSA news agency said the yacht, built in 2008 by Italian firm Perini Navi, was moored outside Porticello harbour.