26th June 2005
Par/By Sébastien, dimanche 26 juin 2005 à 11:55 :: Algiers 2005 - English :: #52 ::
Sphinx ?
Today we start operations early. Yesterday’s discoveries have motivated us and we intend carrying out the maximum number of dives possible. The search will continue in the area around Cape Matifou.
Three objectives are set :
-To draw a plan of the site of the grinding stones and to photograph them,
- to continue to seek the remains of the Sphinx and to establish a generic plan of the site,
- to look for an anchor and a gun in the south of El Marsa.
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Michael Spiteri is filling blocks |
Michael Spiteri, an expert in underwater photography, accompanies the group to take some good photographs of the grinding stones. Luck is on his side as the water, unlike yesterday, is very clear.
A second team of divers will explore the zone of the shipwreck of the Sphinx, close to the small port of El Marsa. Evidence collected yesterday suggests that this is the probable site.
They cover a broad area with the metal detector and try to find remains from the ship, in particular pieces of the steam engine. The metal detector points to many anomalies, proof that objects from the wreck are scattered across this site.
The team finds nails and pins as well as a heavy bronze two-handed hammer.
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Max Guérout present the Sphinx to seamen |
A second group of divers takes over and a last team led by Max Guérout is equipped and taken on the zodiac.
It heads to the south to seek a gun and an anchor which were pointed out to us by a fisherman.
The search proves more difficult than anticipated as the position is not very accurate and the visibility proves very bad.
The wreck of the "old boat" described by the fishermen is not found. The end of this day is marked by the long trips in the RIB between the Surveillant (which remained out at sea) and the land. Everyone seems to be happy with the work carried out but also very tired due to high outside temperature.
At around midday, the sky veils over and a small swell from the North-East starts to build up.

