Mel Fisher Days to Mark 400th Anniversary of Nuestra Senora de Atocha Shipwreck

In September 1622, the Spanish treasure galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha sank in the Florida Straits southwest of Key West. The Atocha lay undiscovered for over 400 years, until Mel Fisher's crew discovered it in 1985. 

In September 2022, history and shipwreck buffs can mark the 400th anniversary of the sinking of the Atocha with cultural and adventure events featuring those who found the shipwreck. Mel Fisher Days is set for Friday through Tuesday, Sept. 2-6, at multiple Key West locations. 

The commemoration's opening ceremony and Atocha-themed film screening are set for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, at Key West's Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St. Events are to be guided by Kim Fisher and Taffi Fisher Abt, son and daughter of Mel and Dolores "Deo" Fisher, who are carrying on the family's shipwreck searches and heritage. 

Saturday, dive and treasure enthusiasts can meet members of the "golden crew" beginning at 4 p.m. during a gathering and charity fundraiser at Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St. The evening's highlights include the debut and book signing of "Today's the Day - The Mel Fisher Story" by veteran Florida Keys journalist Wendy Tucker, and presentation of the prestigious Mel Fisher Lifetime Achievement Award. Auctions, games and contests round out the event.