Experience the captivating adventure and rich history of the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West. As the only fully accredited museum in the Florida Keys, this is not just a simple museum visit, but a nationally recognized research institution. Step into the world of Mel Fisher and his battles with the government to retain the precious artifacts they found, even reaching the US Supreme Court. Marvel at the incredible treasure discovered by Fisher and his crew in the Spanish Treasure Galleons galleries, and explore thought-provoking exhibits on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Key West's unique role in it. Delve into the story behind the English merchant slave ship, the Henrietta Marie, and learn about Spanish Coins in the New World, the Real Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Science of Shipwrecks. You can even take a lab tour to witness history being revealed through conservation. Don't miss this chance to celebrate 30 years of treasure at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.
About this experience
Free Cancellation
For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
Admission Included
1
hours
- 2
hours
Suitable for
1-15
Participants
Self Guided Experience & Audio Guided
Relive Mel Fisher's battles with the government
See the amazing treasure in the Spanish Treasure Galleons galleries
Discover the relics found aboard the Henrietta Marie
Learn about Spanish Coins in the New World
Celebrate 30 years of treasure with the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Entrance
DVD (available to purchase)
Popular Hotels Closeby
More about this experience
Introduction
Experience an exhilarating journey through history at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West, Florida. This renowned museum transcends the boundaries of a traditional adventure story, as it is also a prestigious research institution. Immerse yourself in the captivating tale of Mel Fisher's battles with the government for the artifacts they discovered, a true folk legend that unfolded right here in Key West.
What to expect?
Embark on a voyage of discovery as you explore the fascinating exhibits housed within the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. Wander through the Spanish Treasure Galleons gallery, where the treasures unearthed by Mel Fisher and his crew are proudly displayed. Be captivated by the thought-provoking Slave Ship and Key West African Cemetery exhibitions, shedding light on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Key West's unique role in it. Uncover the relics recovered from the Henrietta Marie, an English merchant slave ship from 1699, and delve into the intriguing stories behind this significant piece of history.
Who is this for?
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum appeals to history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone with a curious mind. Whether you are a fan of maritime history, interested in the preservation of cultural artifacts, or simply eager to explore the rich heritage of Key West, this experience is for you. This inclusive museum welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds to embark on this thrilling journey through time.
Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the unique selling points that make the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum a must-visit destination. Uncover the extraordinary struggles and triumphs of Mel Fisher as he fought for the artifacts recovered from historic shipwrecks. Marvel at the pristine treasure that tells the tales of centuries past, revealing the secrets of Spanish Coins in the New World and the Real Pirates of the Caribbean. Gain a deeper understanding of the science behind shipwrecks through engaging exhibits and even witness the process of history being unveiled through conservation in the museum's lab tours. This extraordinary adventure offers a rare glimpse into the captivating world of underwater exploration and historical preservation.
Good to know
Located at 200 Greene St in Key West, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum can be enjoyed for a duration of 60 to 120 minutes. Explore the museum's impressive collection, including artifacts from the Henrietta Marie wreck, Spanish treasure galleons, and exhibits on the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The museum is committed to preserving history and offers lab tours where you can witness the conservation process firsthand. Celebrate three decades of treasure with the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and embark on an unforgettable journey through time.
Reviews
Visitors to the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum have praised the depth of historical knowledge and the immersive experience it provides. They rave about the captivating artifacts, intriguing exhibits, and the opportunity to learn about the incredible journey of Mel Fisher. Overall, the museum has garnered high levels of satisfaction, leaving visitors feeling enriched and inspired by the remarkable stories and treasures discovered within its walls.
Relive Mel Fisher's battles with the government to retain the artifacts they found - all the way to the US Supreme Court. A true folk legend right in Key West where it all happened!
See the amazing treasure in the Spanish Treasure Galleons galleries discovered by Mel Fisher and his crew, plus so much more! The thought provoking Slave Ship and Key West African Cemetery exhibits provide a stark look into the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Key West’s unique role in it.
Discover the relics found aboard the Henrietta Marie, an English merchant slave ship dating back to 1699. The wreck as discovered in 1972, but was only partially excavated until years later. Hear about the story behind this important piece of history.
Learn about Spanish Coins in the New World, the Real Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Science of Shipwrecks. You can even take a lab tour and see how history is revealed through conservation every day!
Come celebrate 30 years of treasure with the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum!
Admission Included
Reviews
(106)
4.2(106)
Jean B
There’s a short five minute film at the beginning of the museum. The first floor showed Mel’s treasure and the history behind it. The second floor had photos showing how they excavated and catalogued treasure. Our teens—13, 15, and 17– had trouble staying interested in the reading g. I would not recommend taking kids under 10. Also there’s a $1 discount for military with id. Discounted tickets can also be purchased from the old trolley company if you purchased a tour from them.
Robertoisfun
I had knowledge of Mel Fisher before our visit and was looking forward to seeing his discoveries. My Honey was not not familiar with Mel's treasures so was not very interested at first. After viewing the short video and seeing some of the displays my Honey enjoyed our visit. They had many informative displays so you were immersed in the time period, customs and daily life. We learned a lot from our visit. I was a bit disappointed that they did not have as many priceless treasures as I was imagining. I wish we stopped by the nearby shop to see what they were selling and for how much during our short stay. Expect to stay 1 - 2 hours here as there is much to see. Worth a visit but will cost you both $35 for admission.
581colleenc
This museum is a far cry from the Shipwreck museum across the street. It's clean, well lit and easily to navigated. There is two floors to this museum and there is an elevator. the second floor takes about 20mins. to walk/read through. The first takes about 40mins. The displays were nice and pretty.
I was just set back however on how many of the displays were not from any of the wreckages he found but instead on loan/gifted from other museums. Also the rooms were a little jumbled and not orderly.
if you want an audio guide it's only $2 more on top of admission~ but everything is well described.
SammySki
This is my pick for top attraction we visited in Key West. Mel's story is amazing in itself and this museum gives you a chance to see what he brought up from the Atocha. Besides the fabulous jewels and riches, which are mostly saved to the end of your tour, the everyday artifacts tell a lot about the ship and its people that went down in 1622. This is the old history of the Florida Straights. Also the most conveniently located of the major Key West attractions, it sits right at the head of the Duval corridor tourist district.
paulrJ4706IB
Having been here back in 2008 with my father I fell in love with the story of the treasure Galleons and Mel Fisher. This trip I decided to shop my daughter it. This museum is nothing like I remember. There was a bunch of interaction and displays of the treasure that was found.
This visit with my daughter left a lack luster feeling. Everything seems to have been removed. There was very little interactions with the story or treasure. We used to be able to feel a gold bar.
I would skip this stop. For a museum based on treasure Galleons there is practically none on display. Artifacts are cool but treasure gets you hyped.
CYNTHIA M
Informative and cool ! More than just treasure. History lessons are important, it’s who we are, soak up all you can before it disappears.
Voyager17976691031
The exhibit is laid out very professional with plenty detail. The narrated commentary was informative and entertaining.
Laurie H
We very much enjoyed this museum but when we arrived prepared to enter using the Groupon deal we had already purchased we were told that it did not work there & that the deal we'd purchased was for the museum in Melbourne, FL. The employee did not look at our Groupon nor offer to double check this. He very very very confidently told us this as if there were no mistake in saying so! He also told us with firm confidence that Groupon would refund us & all we had to do was to ask for the refund! We questioned this several times as we were pretty sure we'd purchased the correct Groupon deal. But nope! This guy wouldn't budge on his firm reply! 'Doesn't work here' were his exact words. Fast forward a week & a half & several email back & forth with Groupon (including a photo of our paid receipt for our museum entry fee) we are out of luck!! Our Groupon purchase was indeed for Key West & we will not get a refund. No reason given. Needless to say we will never ever purchase anything through Groupon again! And I don't know what to think about this museum telling us it doesn't work there!! I just felt it important to share our experience with others so that they don't have to pay twice or miss out because they can't afford to pay twice!
dvkremk
My husband and I thought this was a very interesting museum. I thought it was going to be your typical maritime museum - but instead it was about a family who found the largest treasure on a sunken Spanish ship. It is well displayed also.
I6589YLtimothyh
A great look into the history of the Caribbean. A lot of great artifacts from pirate and colonial history
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-05-20 10:21
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