Exploring the Phoenician Shipwreck

Diving to 110m is challenging. The team uses rebreathers with backup cylinders for redundancy. Ever morning divers load their specialised equipment needed for the day's work.

Once on the quay, the equipment is sorted according to the dive plan of the day. Such meticulous planning enables the team to use its time as efficiently as possible.

On the work boat, the surface support team assist the divers with their equipment. Each diver will await his turn before going through the detailed checks.

Before entering the water a rigorous check of equipment is conducted together with surface support personnel. Checks are read out, verified by diver and logged daily.

The descent to the site is slow and divers carry out a series of checks on the way down. When within meters of the shipwreck the divers' torches illuminate the ancient cargo.

Prior to starting work, divers inspect the site to identify the exact area where the intervention is to take place.

A rigid grid marks the excavation area. Divers use a water dredge that allows them to systematically remove layers of sediment that cover the archaeological remains.

The ascent from 110m is long and slow. It is imperative for gases to be permitted to leave the divers' tissues to avoid decompression sickness.

Our final objective is always to show the people our work, and make them understand the importance of it and the meaning of sites such as this one.

During and after the excavation, our divers regularly participate in open events, explaining to the assistants their part in the excavation project.