The maritime and culinary worlds are mourning the loss of Chef Recaldo Thomas, who has been identified as the first victim of the tragic sinking of the superyacht Bayesian.
Known by friends and colleagues as Rick, his death has sparked an outpouring of stories and tributes online remembering his humor, warmth, and exceptional culinary talent.
Jennifer Moniz, reflecting on their time together during her early yachting career, shared, “Rick was a significant part of my early yachting career and a dear friend. He encouraged me to take a cookery course, gave me some menu ideas, and taught me how to provision for a crossing. Rick had a presence about him—like a giant teddy bear with a deep voice and laugh that was distinctly his. He was endlessly fun and so chill to be around. When I think of Rick, I can’t remember him ever not smiling.”
Flora Pickard, a close friend, fondly recalled his “brilliant sense of humor, adventurous spirit, and winning smile,” and credited him with introducing espresso martinis to Antigua's iconic Skullduggery Café.
Gareth Williams, who knew Rick for 30 years, told the BBC: “I can talk for everyone that knew him when I say he was a well-loved, kind human being with a calm spirit. He would come over to mine over the weekend and he would sing. He had the deepest, most sultry voice in the world, and a smile that lit up the room. He loved yachting."
In a heartfelt tribute, yachts worldwide honored his memory by sounding their horns, a testament to the widespread respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career.
The 56-meter sailing yacht sank following severe weather in the early hours of August 19 near Palermo, Italy, with 12 guests and 10 crew members on board. The Italian Coast Guard has rescued 15 individuals, but six remain missing.