Fossil-

The survivors should have some clue as to where the water was coming that overwhelmed the pumps and the generators. We just have to be patient for a more complete explanation.

With a strong following sea, the Bounty would have been subjected to severe corkscrewing stress which could have opened up her seams, letting water in. Alternatively one of the overboard discharge valves that failed, or a hatch that failed as you suggest, might have done her in.

The Bounty, as I think I've mentioned above, was completely rebuilt below the waterline in 2006-2007, and had undergone more repair work for a month in the same yard in Maine in September of this year. She should have been in good condition, for a 50-year ship.

Charley Noble