SS: Merestein Traditional Geocache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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Regular cache that forms part of the Shipwreck Series. For the series methodology and more info visit SS: Shipwreck Series via the related web page link. This is the closest public access to the wreck site on Jutten Island.
She was built in Amsterdam in 1693 and was just over 33 metres and 315 tons. The Merestein left Texel on 4 October 1701 laden with silver specie for Batavia. By the time they neared Saldahna most onboard were sick from scurvy and they decided to enter Saldahna for fresh water and vittles.
On 3 April 1702, Captain Jan Subbing recognised the entrance and decided to take the narrower and more treacherous southern channel between the island and Jut Point. A westerly wind was blowing her onto the island. An order was given to sail the ship into the wind, but the helm failed to respond. Captain ordered an anchor to be dropped, but this failed to slow the her and he ordered another.
At this point the sails filled with wind and the chief mate suggested that the anchor lines be cut so that the vessel could be brought about. Subbing called a council of his officers, but the delay resulted in the vessel running aground on the south-west corner of the island.
Only ninety-nine of the 200 crew managed to save themselves. Within an hour of hitting the reef the ship was pounded to pieces by the heavy seas. When morning came all that remained was a few planks floating over her watery grave. Salvors worked the wreck in 1971 and recovered ducatoons, silver riders and Dutch shillings in great numbers.
On Jutten Island the graves of some of those who drowned remain as well as the barrel of a cannon.
Best to do on a weekend when it is quieter and the harbour security more amenable.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Qrsvavgr BCE