black sea catamaran cruise

WELCOME TO VIP CATAMARAN CRUISE

Here is what you have been missing for the ultimate experience of your holidays, imagine the pleasure of boarding a luxury catamaran as you embark on the ideal sailing charter. thank you for choosing vip catamaran for your sunny beach adventure we are looking forward to welcoming you aboard and show you the beauty of the black sea..

BOOK YOUR CRUISE

Vip catamaran offers 3 equally tempting programs for those holidaying in sunny beach & 1 exclusive program for those who stay in obzor. for those of you in the sunny beach areas we offer morning vip, afternoon vip, sunset vip . the sunny beach trip is available in the following resort area - sunny beach, vlas, nessebar, cherno more, ravda  and aheloy. if you are staying in pomorie or elenite and would like to join one of our trips please get in touch using the contact form and we will get back to you with available options. for those of you in obzor we have obzor & old nessebar vip   running from obzor. you will be collected from your resort in obzor by coach and then you will be taken on a guided tour of nessebar. if you stay in a place different than sunny beach or obzor you can still book a cruise with us. point out your place when doing the booking and we will get in touch..

MORNING VIP CRUISE

Availability: Morning Departing from the harbour: 09:00 hrs Return: 13:00 hrs Menu: Hot pasta with bolognaise sauce (vegetarian option available), assorted salads, assorted cold meats and cheeses, fresh bread, pate, fresh fruit. Soft drinks, mineral water, draught beer, red and white wine, coffee, tea. Included: Transfers To/From Resort 65 EURO adults | 33 EURO children (from 3 to 12 years)

AFTERNOON VIP CRUISE

Availability: Afternoon Departing from the harbour: 14:30 hrs Return: 19:00 hrs Menu: Hot pasta with bolognaise sauce (vegetarian option available), assorted salads, assorted cold meats and cheeses, fresh bread, pate, fresh fruit. Soft drinks, mineral water, draught beer, red and white wine, coffee, tea. Included: Transfers To/From Resort 65 EURO adults | 44 EURO children (from 0 to 12 years)

OBZOR & OLD NESSEBAR VIP CRUISE

Availability: Morning Departing from Obzor: 10:00 hrs Return: 18:00 hrs Menu: Hot pasta with bolognaise sauce (vegetarian option available), assorted salads, assorted cold meats and cheeses, fresh bread, pate, fresh fruit. Soft drinks, mineral water, draught beer, red and white wine, coffee, tea. Included: Transfers To/From Obzor. Guided tour of Old Nessebar. Free time 75 EURO adults | 50 EURO children (from 3 to 12 years)

SUNSET VIP CRUISE

Availability: Evening Departing from the harbour: 19:00 hrs Return: 21:30 hrs approx Menu: Cheese board, assorted salad, assorted cold meats, fresh bread, pate, fresh fruit. Half a bottle of prosecco per adult, Coffee, tea, draught beer, mineral water, red and white wine, soft drinks. Included: Transfers To/From Resort 49 EURO adults

SEPTEMBER VIP CRUISE

Availability: Afternoon or Sunset Departing from the harbour: 12:00 hrs /Afternoon/ or 17:30 hrs /Sunset/ Return: 16:00 hrs /Afternoon/ or 20:00 hrs /Sunset/ Included: Transfers To/From Resort Afternoon: 65 EURO adults | 44 EURO children (from 0 to 12 years) Sunset: 49 EURO adults only

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE CRUISE

Reserve your excursion, book the catamaran privately for you and your friends, a company event, a wedding, a special celebration... we will make your event unique.

RESERVE YOUR CRUISE

What are you waiting for put the icing on your vacation. join us for the ultimate experience of your holidays.

• Morning VIP Cruise
• Afternoon VIP Cruise
• Obzor & Old Nessebar VIP Cruise
• Sunset VIP Cruise
• Private Tours

From Obzor: Half-Day Black Sea Catamaran Cruise

Experience the beauty of the Black Sea on this half-day catamaran cruise from Nessebar. Enjoy the stunning views of the Bulgarian coastline as you sail along the sea. You will be able to admire the picturesque sights of the old city of Nessebar, the old fortress walls, and the ancient churches. You will also have the opportunity to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Black Sea. The cruise also includes a delicious lunch of traditional Bulgarian dishes and drinks. The experienced captain and crew will provide you with all the necessary information and assistance throughout the trip. This is a great way to spend a relaxing day out on the sea and to explore the beauty of the Bulgarian coast. So don't miss out on this unique experience and book your half-day catamaran cruise from Nessebar today!

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of this cruise, can we spot any specific marine life during the cruise, what amenities are available on the catamaran, does the catamaran have safety measures, can we bring food and drinks onboard, are there guides on the catamaran, are children allowed on the cruise, what can we expect to see during the cruise, do we need to bring any specific items for the cruise, is there a cancellation policy, what if the weather is bad.

Sailing Destinations

All trips are done on a pre-book basis. In order to do the trip we need to meet the minimum requirement of 40 passengers. Please call us on +359887379837 or follow our Facebook page for more details and upcoming trips. Thank you!

Varna - Balchik -Varna

Adult ticket 60 bgn, child ticket (age7-12) 40 bgn.

Take a break from the bustling mainland and hop on a sailing trip from Varna to Balchik. Relax as our Black Sea Catamaran takes you for open-sea sightseeing, then anchor in the scenic bay of the North East pearl - Balchik. Enjoy sweeping views of the Black Sea coastline.

Adult Ticket 30 BGN

Child ticket (age 7-12) 20 bgn, child under 7s free.

Experience a beautiful panoramic short-cruise in the Bay of Varna and Varna lake. Our SeaCat offers you an unforgettable day trip in the scenic Varna Bay. Take a different look at the city, enjoy the sea, the views and gain lifetime memories.

Varna - Beloslav - Varna

Adult ticket 40 bgn, child ticket (age 7-12) 30 bgn.

Set sail on the SeaCat trip from Varna to Beloslav. Admire the stunning views of the sea's coastline, experience the thrill and visit Beloslav's museums - The Glass Museum and Slava submarine.

Explore Black Sea Coast

Enjoy a refreshing coffee or a cold drink on the deck, accompanied by the sound of the sea waves. Soak in the views of the area's marvelous bays as we drift by.

Daily catamaran trips

Contact us and find out more information about our trips, such as destinations, duration, tickets available, etc. We will be more than happy to give you all details needed and reserve your spot on our SeaCat.

Group short-cruises

Team building.

Team building, corporate events, business trips, get in touch and find out more details. The SeaCat team will help you to organise an adventurous business event that your co-workers and partners will remember.

Unforgettable moments

Sea breeze, the sound of the waves and the picturesque Bulgarian coast. On the board of Seacat you will have the opportunity to enjoy hot coffee or tea, cold drinks and fabulous views. Contact us, learn more.

Enjoy a scenic sail with SeaCat

To see discounted cruises in this region, use the Find a Bargain box on the left.

The Black Sea is an inland sea in Eastern Europe, surrounded by Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania. It is connected to the Mediterranean by the Bosphorus Strait. A Black Sea cruise will take you to lands known best for their history, variety of terrains, unique cultures and long-standing traditions. Port calls in the Ukraine, Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania are featured and sailings are typically 7 to 14 nights in length. Enjoy the sunny Crimean Coast, the colorful day-to-day activities of Istanbul, or the therapeutic resorts of Odessa. Itineraries often include visits to Greece and Italy as well.

• The Black Sea cruise season is from mid-April to mid-October.  
• Black Sea cruises are 7 to 14 nights in length, although a few ships offer longer itineraries.  
• Because you'll need to fly a long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance of your Black Sea cruise. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

For a list of ports or places you can visit in the Black Sea, click here .

• Information about your cruise
• Before booking

From the Danube to the Black Sea

Undoubtedly one of the most complete cruises by the number of countries crossed (7 in 12 days) and the evolution of the landscapes encountered from Linz to the Danube Delta. One of the highlights of the cruise: the passage of the famous Iron Gates, the course of the Danube between the Carpathians and the Balkans. Many cities along the route: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Belgrade, Giurgiu from where you can visit Bucharest ...

Trans-European cruise from Strasbourg to Tulcea, 3 rivers, the Rhine, the Main and the Danube

STRASBOURG - MAINZ - FRANKFURT - MILTENBERG - WERTHEIM - WURZBURG - SCHWEINFURT - BAMBERG - NUREMBERG - MÜHLHAUSEN - REGENSBURG - PASSAU - MELK - DURNSTEIN - VIENNA - ESZTERGOM - BUDAPEST - MOHACS - OSIJEK - NOVI SAD - BELGRADE - The Iron Gates - RUSE - CERNAVODA / FETESTI - TULCEA - OLTENITA

Exhilarating ports of call and amazing cuisine are on deck for this cruise from France to Romania. Take a journey through one thousand years of tradition,  where nature dazzles and monuments reflect the passionate, sometimes turbulent, history along the European waterways.

From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube

OLTENITA - TULCEA - The Danube Delta - GIURGIU - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - BUDAPEST - BRATISLAVA - VIENNA

Admire the majestic blue river, crossing 8 countries and stopping in 4 capitals. You will discover tremendous landscapes of striking beauty where nature is queen. From Vienna to Belgrade via Bratislava and Budapest, discover unique architecture, history, and culture all along the beautiful Danube.

Along the Danube, the Balkan peninsula and Budapest

OLTENITA - CERNAVODA - Danube-Black Sea Canal - CONSTANTA - OLTENITA - Bucarest - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - OSIJEK - MOHACS - BUDAPEST

From Romania to Hungary via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures. 

Along the river Danube, Budapest and the Balkan peninsula

BUDAPEST - MOHACS - OSIJEK - NOVI SAD - BELGRADE - The Iron Gates - RUSE - OLTENITA - CERNAVODA / FETESTI - Danube-Black Sea Canal - CONSTANTA - CERNAVODA  / FETESTI - OLTENITA

From Hungary to Romania via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures. 

Bucarest - Predeal - Sighisoara - Brasov - Predeal - Sibiu - Sibiel - Bran - Predeal - Sinaia - OLTENITA - CERNAVODA - Danube-Black Sea Canal - CONSTANTA - OLTENITA - Bucarest - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - OSIJEK - MOHACS - BUDAPEST

From Romania to Hungary via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures.

EXCITING EXPERIENCE

BIG GAME FISHING

SPEEDBOAT TRIP

Passionate & Experienced Team

Request a quote, incredible views. exceptional encounters. magical moments.

Discover the Mauritian coasts like never before by sailing across the island’s warm waters with BlackRiver Charters. Go for a relaxing catamaran cruise on the island’s west coast, try the thrill of big game fishing, get the opportunity to view whales or dolphins, or go on an exclusive trip with friends and family on our speedboats. If you’re looking for a sense of wanderlust, you won’t be disappointed.

Hooked on Adventure: Big Game Fishing Expeditions

Embark on adrenaline-pumping Big Game Fishing Adventures with BlackRiver Charters. Cast your line and reel in the big ones as you chase thrilling catches in the deep blue sea. Get ready for heart-pounding moments and unforgettable fishing escapades.

Craft Exceptional Experiences Together: BlackRiver Charters Speedboat Cruises

Go on an unforgettable adventure with close friends and family on our Speedboat Cruises. From getting up close to dolphins and whales, exploring the Mauritian coastlines, taking a dive into crystal clear waters for a snorkelling session and more, our speedboat cruises offer a unique side of Mauritius to be discovered together.

About us BlackRiver Charters

Born from one man’s passion for the sea, Black River Charters is a family business that began its adventures some twenty years ago with the acquisition of our first fishing boat ‘Les Copains d’à Bord’ in 1992. The company initially specialized in big game fishing and won the Marlin World Cup twice, in 2008 and 2009. Over the years, the company has diversified its activities to meet the changing requirements of the Mauritian tourism market.

Why BlackRiver Charters ?

We’ve been helping visitors discover a unique side to Mauritius for over 30 years. Every catamaran cruise we run is an opportunity to meet new people, soak in breathtaking views of the island’s West Coast, and even get an opportunity to see some friendly dolphins. Go on our speedboat tours for exhilarating rides across the island’s coast. Head to the island’s north coast, and you might be lucky enough to spot magnificent whales during their migration season. For a more thrilling experience, our big game fishing expeditions offer a chance to catch marlin and other prized fish that populate the west coast’s waters all year round. So come aboard and discover the beauty and excitement of Mauritius with us.

What to see on the West Coast? 

Crystal rock – the best place to snorkel in mauritius.

A visit to the postcard perfect Crystal Rock is always part of our catamaran and speedboat cruise. This picturesque landmark, a stone’s throw from Benitiers Island in the South West Mauritius, rises from turquoise waters and is a great spot for that perfect Instagram shot, or to go on a peaceful snorkelling session surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colourful fish around. A dream for sea lovers.

Benitiers island – An islander’s dream

Located close to Le Morne’s lagoon, Benitiers Island stands as a serene sanctuary for travellers looking for the peace and quiet of a castaway island. With its pristine shores lapped by crystal-clear waters, this idyllic island offers a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Gaze upon panoramic views of the Black River mountain range as you drop anchor in the tranquil lagoon, not far from the iconic Crystal Rock. Here, amidst the gentle sway of palm trees and the soothing melody of the ocean, guests can indulge in a barbecue feast prepared by our skilled crew, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Our Cruises and Excursions: Choose Your Ocean Experience

The quintessential catamaran experience in mauritius.

Sail along the beautiful seas of Mauritius’ west coast on our luxurious catamaran cruises and seize the opportunity to be greeted by playful dolphins dancing alongside our catamaran. Anchoring in the tranquil lagoon of Benitiers Island, near the majestic Crystal Rock, you’ll discover the Black River mountain range from the lenses of the sea. Our crew will prepare a mouthwatering barbecue feast, adding a savoury touch to your maritime adventure. Children aged 4 to 12 sail at half price, while those under 4 cruise free. With a capacity of 35 passengers, our catamarans ensure ample space for all to relish in the splendour of Mauritius’ coastal beauty. Discover our Catamaran Cruise Package.

Thrilling Big Game Fishing

Want to experience the adrenaline-fueled world of big game fishing along the famed waters of Mauritius’ west coast? The island is hands down a global hotspot for the possibility of catching most of the different types of Billfish such as the Blue Marlin, the Black Marlin, the Sailfish, the Striped Marlin, the Spearfish and the so on.

Onboard our professionally equipped boats can accommodate a maximum of 12 eager adventurers, ready to cast their lines into the deep blue. Feel the thrill of the chase as you reel in a variety of fish, from the big ones to the small ones namely the yellowfin tuna, the wahoo, the dorado all year-round. With international fishing competitions held in the summer months, the west coast beckons both seasoned anglers and novices alike to partake in this exhilarating pursuit of the sea’s bounty. Discover our Big Game Fishing Package.

Speedboat Excursions

Book this cruise to go on an exclusive and personalised adventure by speed boat where you’ll discover the natural wonders of Mauritius’ coasts. We’ll look for graceful dances of dolphins in their pristine habitat. It is, for nature and animal lovers, the most exciting experience on the island.

Our expeditions unveil the splendour of renowned landmarks such as Crystal Rock, Le Morne lagoon, and Benitiers Island, each offering a unique perspective of Mauritius’ coastal charm. You will enjoy a full-day excursion coupled with a barbecue feast served on the island – the icing of the cake for foodies. For those seeking a thrill, the option of light tackle fishing is available upon request, adding an exciting twist to your trip.

But that’s not all. We’ll also be seeking mighty whales. Following this unforgettable encounter, you’ll be able to snorkel in the vicinity to discover vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

If you choose our North expedition, we will take you to Coin de Mire island, where you may encounter other charming dolphins and explore Albion’s lighthouse bay – a scene straight out of a movie! Discover our Speedboat Cruise Package .

Sustainable Practices

At BlackRiver Charters, we are committed to preserving the beauty of our oceans and marine life. As part of our eco-conscious initiatives, we have implemented a strict no-plastic policy on all our catamaran cruises and speedboat cruises.

We believe in protecting our environment and reducing plastic waste to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. To achieve this goal, we have replaced single-use plastic items with eco-friendly alternatives aboard our boats. Our guests can enjoy their cruise experience without contributing to plastic pollution in our oceans.

Join us in our mission to protect marine ecosystems and support responsible tourism practices. Together, we can make a positive impact on our planet and create a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Our latest instagram posts @blackrivercharters

Plan your next sea & water excursions with us..

• Catamaran Cruise
• Big Game Fishing
• Speedboat Cruises
• Our History
• Marlin World Cup 2008 & 2009
• REQUEST A QUOTE

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Cruise passengers stranded in ireland for three months after planning dream trip to sail the world.

Cruise passengers waiting to set sail on a round-the-world voyage have been left stranded for a staggering three months in Northern Ireland after a slew of infrastructure issues plagued the luxury liner.

The Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey ship had been scheduled to depart Belfast back on May 30 for the first leg of a three-year cruise before problems were detected with its rudders and gearbox, BBC News reported .

The delays have meant some passengers have spent months living on the docked cruise ship — with no sail date in sight.

Dr. David Austin, who sold his house in Georgia to set sail, said he had long “stopped counting down” the days until the ship is finally ready.

“The payoff of seeing the world in this fashion is too great to feel too disappointed with each delay announcement,” he said.

“I was committed, having sold my house right before my arrival, and I’ve stayed committed to this adventure with every delay.”

It wasn’t immediately clear how many passengers were currently stuck living on the docked ship.

After first encountering the technical issues, the cruise liner sent the majority of passengers off on other cruises, or flew them home to wait for a new departure date.

Holly Hennessey, a Florida native, said she is among those who have unexpectedly “hunkered down” on board because she is traveling with her cat and is unable to come and go from Belfast while she waits for the ship to be ready.

“We can spend all day aboard the ship and they provide shuttle buses to get on and off,” Hennessey said. “We can have all of our meals and they even have movies and trivia entertainment, almost like cruising except we’re at the dock.”

Angela and Stephen Theriac, of Nicaragua, said they’ve already settled in with the locals due to the delays.

“We keep teasing we will apply for residency here in Belfast,” Angela said.

“We have eaten in every restaurant and had a Guinness in every pub,” her husband added.

The voyage, billed as the first round-the-world residential cruise, allows passengers to buy a cabin outright or pay as you go for the various legs of the three-year cruise.

The cost of a cabin ranges from $99,999 to $899,000, according to the cruise’s website.

A spokesperson for the cruise line told The Post that the issues stemmed from trying to reactivate a 30-year-old vessel – but they expect to finally set off as soon as next week.     

“Despite having to do major works such as the rudder stocks, major steel work and engine overhauls, we have persevered and are now in the last stages of departure,” the spokesperson said in a statement.

“We expect a very anticipated successful launch next week where we will head to Bremerhaven, Amsterdam, Lisbon, then across the Atlantic for our Caribbean segment.” 

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Panathenaic Stadium (Panathinaiko Stadio)

Leoforos Vasileos Konstantinou, Athens, GRC

Originally built in the fourth century BC for the Panathenaic Games, Athens’ gleaming all-marble Panathenaic Stadium (Panathinaiko Stadio) was reconstructed for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Returning to its roots for the 2004 Olympics, the stadium was the site of the archery competition and the marathon finish line.

Entrance to the Panathenaic Stadium includes an audio guide and access to a small museum exhibiting Olympic Games posters. Don’t miss the chance to snap your photo on the winners’ pedestal. Hop-on hop-off buses and many Central Athens sightseeing tours stop at the stadium and other top sights, such as the Acropolis, the Roman Agora, and Syntagma Square.

The Panathenaic Stadium is occasionally used as a concert venue—check to see what’s on during your visit.

Smoking, drinking anything other than water, and eating are prohibited inside the stadium.

Facilities include toilets (for a small fee) and a café (near the entrance).

The Panathenaic Stadium is located just southeast of the National Gardens of Athens (Ethnikos Kipos). Take the metro to the Syntagma, Acropoli, or Evangelismos station, then walk the short distance to the stadium.

The stadium is open to visitors year-round. The best time to go is in the morning or early evening, when temperatures are lower. Visitors can jog along the track in the early morning—just fill out the waiver available on the stadium’s website.

Stand 21 offers some of the finest views of Athens’ ancient riches. Climb to the highest tier, and gaze across at noble sights such as the Acropolis, Philopappos Hill (Filopappou), the Temple of Olympian Zeus (Naós tou Olympíou Diós), and Mt. Lycabettus (Lykavittos), the city’s tallest peak.

Things To Do Available ( 425 )

Private tour to marathon battlefield and long run.

Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Private Layover Athens Sightseeing Tour from the Airport or Port

Duration: 5 hours

Private Half-Day Sightseeing in Athens

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Athens Private Half-Day Tour with Driver and Guide

Duration: 4 hours

Athens, Piraeus, Riviera: Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Tour

Duration: 80 to 110 minutes

Athens Full Day Private Tour 8seat

Duration: 8 hours

Athens Full Day Private Tour 4seat

Athens half day private tour 4seat, cape sounio, temple of poseidon, and lake vouliagmeni day trip, athens express private driving tour.

Duration: 2 hours

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Russia's largest attack on Ukraine just showed that its Black Sea Fleet is still dangerous despite its heavy losses

• Russia carried out its largest air attack against Ukraine so far on Monday.
• The attack included 28 Kalibr missiles fired from Russian naval vessels in the Black Sea.
• Russia's Black Sea Fleet has taken heavy losses, but the attack shows it's still a threat.

Russia fired hundreds of missiles and attack drones into Ukraine on Monday, targeting critical infrastructure and other sites across the country in what Ukraine said was the largest aerial bombardment of the war.

Ukraine's air force said it detected 127 missiles launched by Russian aircraft, ground forces, and warships, as well as an additional 109 drones. Kyiv said it destroyed 102 missiles and 99 drones during the massive barrage.

At least seven people were killed in the attack, and dozens more were injured, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said Monday evening local time.

The Russian attack involved several different types of weapons, including 28 Kalibr cruise missiles that were fired from "surface" and "underwater carriers in the eastern part of the Black Sea," Ukraine's air force said , indicating launches from surface warships and submarines.

The involvement of Russia's Black Sea Fleet shows it's still capable of carrying out large-scale attacks on Ukraine despite taking heavy losses.

Ukraine says it has sunk, damaged, or destroyed at least a third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet since the start of the war — a notable success given that Kyiv doesn't have a proper navy of its own.

Ukrainian military and security forces have relied heavily on domestically produced naval drones and anti-ship missiles to engage in asymmetrical warfare and curb the Russian naval threat.

The Ukrainian campaign has ultimately forced the Black Sea Fleet to disperse from its headquarters in the southwestern corner of the occupied Crimean peninsula and relocate to the eastern part of the region, closer to Russia, where the Kalibr missiles were fired from on Monday.

Despite these substantial setbacks to the fleet, a spokesperson for Ukraine's navy said earlier this year that Russia maintained a serious presence in the Black Sea , including a combination of missile carriers, submarines, and patrol ships.

Related stories

Three Russian cruise-missile submarines were spotted in the broad Black Sea area just a few weeks ago.

On Monday, Russia also launched ballistic missiles and cruise missiles from other platforms during its huge bombardment, including Tu-95 strategic bombers, Su-34 fighter-bombers, and Su-57 fifth-generation aircraft, Ukraine said, adding that its forces shot down 201 of the 236 aerial threats.

Business Insider was unable to verify the Ukrainian claims.

Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk, the commander of Ukraine's air force, said in a statement , "All available weapons and equipment were used to repel the air attack: aviation, anti-aircraft missile forces of the Air Force, mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Defence Forces and electronic warfare units."

John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, said the US was focused on providing Ukraine with critical air-defense systems and interceptor missiles to defend itself against such attacks in the future.

"Their air defense performed really well during these attacks," he told reporters on Monday. "Clearly, some things got through. But they knocked the majority out of the sky, and we have to make sure they can continue to do that."

Watch: Ukraine's sea drones vs. Russia's Black Sea Fleet

• Main content

Russia keeps one ship with Kalibr missiles in Black Sea

T his morning, August 30, one Russian military vessel was spotted in the Black Sea. The ship is equipped with Kalibr-type cruise missiles, according to the Ukrainian Navy.

The military indicated that the ship could launch a salvo of up to four Kalibr cruise missiles.

As of 6 a.m. on Friday, no enemy naval groups were observed in the Sea of Azov.

Additionally, the Ukrainian Navy reported that three enemy ships were sighted in the Mediterranean Sea, one of which is equipped with Kalibr missiles, capable of launching up to 8 cruise missiles.

The Ukrainian Navy also reported that over the past day, the following vessels passed through the Kerch Strait in the interests of the aggressor country, Russia:

・to the Black Sea - 9 ships, of which 6 continued towards the Bosporus Strait;

・to the Sea of Azov - 11 ships, none of which were coming from the Bosporus Strait.

The military added that Russia continues to violate the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) of 1974 by routinely disabling Automatic Identification Systems (AIS).

It should be noted that yesterday, a similar situation was observed in the Black and Azov Seas, with Russia deploying only one missile carrier with 4 Kalibr missiles onboard.

Additionally, following a massive combined strike earlier this week, during which Russian ships launched 28 Kalibr missiles at Ukraine - all of which were intercepted by Ukrainian air defense systems - missile carriers continue to be present in the Black Sea.

On August 22, Ukraine's navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk explained why the Russian fleet has been reluctant to venture into the Black and Azov Seas.

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Lynch Yacht Sinking Off Sicily Proves as Baffling as It Is Tragic

As bodies were recovered, the authorities and experts wondered how a $40 million, stable and secure vessel could have sunk so quickly.

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By Emma Bubola and Michael J. de la Merced

Emma Bubola reported from Porticello, Italy, and Michael J. de la Merced from London.

Two months after being cleared in a bruising legal battle over fraud charges, the British tech mogul Mike Lynch celebrated his freedom with a cruise. He invited his family, friends and part of his legal team on board his luxury sailing yacht, a majestic 180-foot vessel named Bayesian after the mathematical theorem around which he had built his empire.

On Sunday night, after a tour of the Gulf of Naples, including Capri, and volcanic islands in the Eolian archipelago, the boat anchored half a mile off the Sicilian coast in Porticello, Italy. It chose a stretch of water favored by the Phoenicians thousands of years ago for its protection from the mistral wind and, in more recent times, by the yachts of tech billionaires. The boat was lit “like a Christmas tree,” local residents said, standing out against the full moon.

But about 4 a.m., calamity unfolded. A violent and fast storm hit the area with some of the strongest winds locals said they had ever felt. Fabio Cefalù, a fisherman, said he saw a flare pierce the darkness shortly after 4.

Minutes later, the yacht was underwater. Only dozens of cushions from the boat’s deck and a gigantic radar from its mast floated on the surface of the sea, fishermen said.

In all, 22 people were on board, 15 of whom were rescued. Six bodies — five passengers and the ship’s cook — had been recovered by Thursday afternoon, including that of Mr. Lynch, an Italian government official said, adding that the search was continuing for his daughter.

It was a tragic and mystifying turn of events for Mr. Lynch, 59, who had spent years seeking to clear his name and was finally inaugurating a new chapter in his life. Experts wondered how a $40 million yacht, so robust and stable could have been sunk by a storm near a port within minutes.

“It drives me insane,” said Giovanni Costantino, the chief executive of the Italian Sea Group, which in 2022 bought the company, Perini, that made the Bayesian. “Following all the proper procedures, that boat is unsinkable.”

The aura of misfortune only deepened when it emerged that Stephen Chamberlain, 52, a former vice president of finance for Mr. Lynch’s former company and a co-defendant in the fraud case, was killed two days earlier, when he was hit by a car while jogging near his house in England.

Since June, the two men had been in a jubilant mood. A jury in San Francisco had acquitted both on fraud charges that could have sent them to prison for two decades. There were hugs and tears, and they and their legal teams went for a celebratory dinner party at a restaurant in the city, said Gary S. Lincenberg, a lawyer for Mr. Chamberlain.

The sea excursion was meant as a thank-you by Mr. Lynch to those who had helped him in his legal travails. Among the guests was Christopher J. Morvillo, 59, a scion of a prominent New York family of lawyers who had represented Mr. Lynch for 12 years. He and his wife, Neda, 57, were among the missing.

So, too, was Jonathan Bloomer, 70, a veteran British insurance executive who chaired Morgan Stanley International and the insurer Hiscox.

The body of the ship’s cook, Recaldo Thomas, was recovered. All the other crew members survived. Among them was Leo Eppel, 19, of South Africa, who was on his first yacht voyage working as a deck steward, said a friend, who asked not to be identified.

Since the sinking, the recovery effort and investigation have turned the tiny port town of Porticello, a quiet enclave where older men sit bare-chested on balconies, into what feels like the set of a movie.

Helicopters have flown overhead. Ambulances have sped by with the sirens blaring. The Coast Guard has patrolled the waters off shore, within sight of a cordoned-off dock that had been turned into an emergency headquarters.

On Wednesday afternoon, a church bell tolled after the first body bag was loaded into an ambulance, a crowd watching in silence.

The survivors were sheltering in a sprawling resort near Porticello, with a view of the shipwreck spot, and had so far declined to comment.

Attilio Di Diodato, director of the Italian Air Force’s Center for Aerospace Meteorology and Climatology, said that the yacht had most likely been hit by a fierce “down burst” — when air generated within a thunderstorm descends rapidly — or by a waterspout , similar to a tornado over water.

He added that his agency had put out rough-sea warnings the previous evening, alerting sailors about storms and strong winds. Locals said the winds “felt like an earthquake.”

Mr. Costantino, the boat executive, said the yacht had been specifically designed for having a tall mast — the second-tallest aluminum mast in the world. He said the Bayesian was an extremely safe and secure boat that could list even to 75 degrees without capsizing.

But he said that if some of the hatches on the side and in the stern, or some of the deck doors, had been open, the boat could have taken on water and sunk. Standard procedure in such storms, he said, is to switch on the engine, lift the anchor and turn the boat into the wind, lowering the keel for extra stability, closing doors and gathering the guests in the main hall inside the deck.

12 guests occupied the yacht’s six cabins. There were also 10 crew members.

Open hatches, doors and cabin windows could have let in water during a storm, according to the manufacturer.

Open hatches, doors and

cabin windows could

have let in water

during a storm,

according to the

manufacturer.

Source: Superyacht Times, YachtCharterFleet, MarineTraffic

By Veronica Penney

The New York Times attempted to reach the captain, James Cutfield, who had survived, for comment through social media, his brother and the management company of the yacht (which did not hire the crew), but did not make contact.

So far none of the surviving crew members have made a public statement about what happened that night.

Fabio Genco, the director of Palermo’s emergency services, who treated some of the survivors, said that the victims had recounted feeling as if the boat was being lifted, then suddenly dropped, with objects from the cabins falling on them.

The Italian Coast Guard said it had deployed a remotely operated vehicle that can prowl underwater for up to seven hours at a depth of more than 980 feet and record videos and images that they hoped would help them reconstruct the dynamics of the sinking. Such devices were used during the search and rescue operations of the Titan vessel that is believed to have imploded last summer near the wreckage of the Titanic.

After rescuers broke inside the yacht, they struggled to navigate the ropes and many pieces of furniture cluttering the vessel, said Luca Cari, a spokesman for Italy’s national firefighter corps.

Finally, as of Thursday morning, they had managed to retrieve all but one of the missing bodies, and hopes of finding the missing person alive were thin. “Can a human being be underwater for two days?” Mr. Cari asked.

What was certain was that Mr. Lynch’s death was yet another cruel twist of fate for a man who had spent years seeking to clear his name.

He earned a fortune in technology and was nicknamed Britain’s Bill Gates. But for more than a decade, he had been treated as anything but a respected tech leader.

He was accused by Hewlett-Packard, the American technological pioneer that had bought his software company, Autonomy, for $11 billion, of misleading it about his company’s worth. (Hewlett-Packard wrote down the value of the transaction by about $8.8 billion, and critics called it one of the worst deals of all time .) He had been increasingly shunned by the British establishment that he sought to break into after growing up working-class outside London.

He was extradited to San Francisco to face criminal charges, and confined to house arrest and 24-hour surveillance on his dime. In a townhouse in the Pacific Heights neighborhood — with security people he jokingly told associates were his “roommates” — he spent his mornings talking with researchers whom he funded personally on new applications for artificial intelligence. Afterward, he devoted hours to discussing legal strategy with his team.

Despite his persistent claims of innocence, even those close to Mr. Lynch had believed his odds of victory were slim. Autonomy’s chief financial officer, Sushovan Hussain, was convicted in 2018 of similar fraud charges and spent five years in prison.

During Mr. Lynch’s house arrest, his brother and mother died. His wife, Angela Bacares, frequently flew over from England, and she became a constant presence in the San Francisco courtroom during the trial.

After he was finally acquitted, Mr. Lynch had his eye on the future. “I am looking forward to returning to the U.K. and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field,” he said.

Elisabetta Povoledo contributed reporting from Pallanza, Italy.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in Rome. More about Emma Bubola

Michael J. de la Merced has covered global business and finance news for The Times since 2006. More about Michael J. de la Merced