“Neptune’s Fortune” Book Launch
at The Seaport Museum
The latest book by acclaimed author and journalist Julian Sancton hits shelves on January 27, 2026—and you’re invited to its New York launch at the South Street Seaport Museum!
Sancton’s new work, Neptune’s Fortune: The Billion-Dollar Shipwreck and the Ghosts of the Spanish Empire, tells the riveting true story of the San José, a legendary Spanish galleon that sank off the coast of Colombia carrying more than $1 billion in gold and silver. At the heart of the book is Roger Dooley’s decades-long, obsessive quest to locate the wreck. Get your ticket today to hear Sancton share his research, behind-the-scenes stories, and a presentation featuring photos that illuminate his journey.
This work also explores the history of the Spanish colonies, naval warfare, diving and underwater exploration technology, Cuban-American relations, treasure hunting, and the ethical quandaries of excavating historic sites. In addition to learning more about his process, the program will include readings from the book and end with a moderated discussion with the award-winning author.
Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event provided by Scattered Books. Unable to join the event but want your own signed copy of the book? Contact Scattered Books for an order link to receive a mailed signed copy anywhere in the US.
EVENT DETAILS
Saturday, January 31, 2026
2:30pm
Price
Free
Location
The South Street Seaport Museum
213 Water Street
New York, NY 10038
About S+4
Seaport Museum
The South Street Seaport Museum, located in the heart of the historic Seaport District, preserves and interprets the history of New York as a great port city. Founded in 1967, the Seaport Museum includes an extensive collection of works of art and artifacts, a maritime reference library, galleries, working 19th-century print shop, and a fleet of historic vessels that all work to tell the story of “Where New York Begins.”
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