$185,000 to Find $24 Million Pelorus Just Launched Yachting’s Wildest Gamble

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Image by Pelorus Travel.

An Audacious Proposition

In the rarefied air of luxury experiences, opportunities often blend opulence with the exotic. But Pelorus, the acclaimed experiential travel brand, has just unveiled a proposition that throws the rulebook overboard. Imagine: a 17th-century French frigate, believed to hold $24 million in gold, silver, and jewels destined for King Louis XIV, lost for centuries in uncharted waters. Now, for the first time, a mere four individuals are offered the chance to find it. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a high-stakes treasure hunt, blending historical intrigue, cutting-edge exploration, and the potential for a life-altering payout.

The Lost Fortune: A Tale from 1699

The story begins in 1699, when the French frigate Maurepas sank off the coast of Panama, near the untouched Isthmus of Darien. Laden with a vast treasure—a gift from Charles II of Spain to King Louis XIV—the ship vanished before reaching Europe. Records confirm the wreck, and though the French captain, Duvivier Thomas, and 22 crew survived, their efforts to salvage the fortune proved futile. For over 300 years, the Guna Yala Tribe, indigenous to the San Blas Archipelago, has protected the site, forbidding entry into their sacred waters. The treasure remained a legend, whispered by the tides.

Ancient Beliefs and a New Alliance

The question arises: why now? In 2012, representatives of the Guna Yala community approached the OceanX Team, renowned salvage hunters. The tribe, who believe their ancestors descended from the cosmos in interstellar vessels—a belief strengthened by OceanX’s discovery of “The Baltic Sea Anomaly”—granted exclusive permission to search their protected waters. This profound trust, born from a shared quest for truth and a desire for prosperity, marks an unprecedented partnership. The Guna Yala see the lost treasure as a means to restore their community and seek justice, making this expedition far more than just a hunt for riches.

The Architects of Adventure

This extraordinary expedition is a collaboration between Pelorus, known for tailor-made, boundary-pushing experiences, and the OceanX Team. Pelorus co-founder Geordie Mackay-Lewis encapsulates the mission:

“This is a phenomenal chance to make history – uncovering the legendary Maurepas and its treasure that has been lost in time, under waters that no one has ever been allowed to explore.”

The team’s deep respect for the Guna Yala people ensures this mission is built on partnership, restoration, and a lasting impact for the tribe.

Image by Pelorus Travel.

The Hunt, The Payoff, The Legacy

Participants will spend their days diving in unexplored waters, meticulously scanning the seabed with magnetometers, engaging in salvage diving, and observing the recovery process alongside expert dive teams. But the rewards extend beyond the thrill of discovery. Should the $24 million treasure be found, a remarkable 70% of the sales will be returned to the Guna Yala community. Each treasure hunter will receive 4.94% of the remaining 30% share, plus a $25,000 payment for participating in the accompanying documentary. This is a chance to not only make history but to contribute to a powerful legacy.

Luxury in the Wilderness

For those seeking an added layer of comfort amidst the rugged adventure, Pelorus can arrange a private luxury superyacht charter as a home base for the expedition. This option allows a group or family to participate together, providing a lavish retreat after days of intense exploration, and a superb platform for further water activities in the pristine San Blas Islands. It is the ultimate blend of audacious discovery and refined living.

An Invitation to History: Only Four Opportunities

Only four places are available for this Maurepas treasure hunt, making it one of the most exclusive expeditions offered anywhere. Starting from $185,000 per person, this includes full board accommodation for seven nights, all diving equipment, a scuba license for non-divers, expert guides, business class flights, and insurance. This price may vary with added yacht charter costs. This is not merely a vacation; it is an invitation to write yourself into maritime history, uncover ancient riches, and directly impact a community. The question is: will you answer the call?

Image by Pelorus Travel.
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