Skeptoid Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music

Members Portal

Support Us Store

 

< All events

Mysteries of the Maya

SKEPTOID ADVENTURES

Yucatán Coast,
December 6, 2026 - December 13, 2026
Add to calendar

BUY TICKETS

Mysteries of the Maya

Join Brian Dunning and a host of like-minded skeptics on another fascinating Skeptoid Adventure in a hands-on exploration of the true science and true history behind cultural myths, misinformation and mysterious legends. This time, we're exploring the fascinating history of the Maya Peninsula on a 7-day expedition.

This Adventure begins immediately after the New Orleans Escapade, so you can join one, join the other, or participate in both!

Your hosts:

Kurly TlapoyawaFor this Adventure, our very own onboard expert is Indigenous Chicano archaeologist and ethnohistorian Kurly Tlapoyawa, co-host of the podcast Tales from Aztlantis, which explores Chicano, Mexicano and Mesoamerican history, archaeology and culture. Kurly's research covers Mesoamerica, the American Southwest, and the historical connections between the two regions. He is the author of numerous books and has presented lectures at the University of New Mexico, Harvard University, Yale University, San Diego State University, and numerous others. He is also a cultural consultant for Nickelodeon Animation Studios with recent projects including Guardians of the Purple Kingdom and The Casagrandes Movie.

Brian DunningYou already know science writer Brian Dunning as the host and producer of the Skeptoid podcast, one of the longest running and consistently most popular independent science podcasts, having surpassed 100 million downloads in 2017. He is also the writer and producer of the documentary films The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You to See (2023), Science Friction (2022), and Principles of Curiosity (2017).

The Adventure departs from New Orleans on December 6, 2026, and we'll visit the fascinating ports of:

CozumelCozumel: Cozumel is steeped in Maya legends and stories of pirates. We'll explore the rich Maya history of Mexico's largest caribbean island located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula. The name Cozumel was derived from the Mayan "Cuzamil" (also spelled "Cutzmil") or "Ah Cuzamil Peten" in full, which means "the island of swallows".

RoatanRoatán Bay Islands: Also rich in Maya history, The Bay Islands form a small archipelago along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world's second largest barrier reef. Roatán itself is situated atop an exposed ancient coral reef. We'll dive beneath stories of haunted caves and buried treasure to explore the rich and fascinating true history of the area.

Harvest CayeHarvest Caye: Your gateway to the world of the Maya: a private Belizean island where a laidback beach day pairs seamlessly with expeditions to the ancient temples of Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun on the nearby mainland. Walk the whitesand shore knowing that just beyond the horizon lie junglewrapped cities where stone plazas, ball courts, and carved stelae reveal centuries of Maya ritual, astronomy, and royal power.

Norwegian BreakawayThe most comfortable way to stay and travel to these destinations is by ship (it's also the way Indiana Jones would do it), so we'll be on board the Norwegian Breakaway — but Skeptoid Adventures are all about the group and the activities. We'll have our own conference room and plenty of areas to gather and swap stories. Nearly every past adventurer will tell you that meeting this great new group of like-minded friends is the real highlight.

While onboard we'll host our very own mini-conference of all things skeptical. We'll learn about the Maya culture and history central to this area from Kurly, before exploring the islands up close and in person. We'll also have plenty of other Skeptoid-related fun and social time.

Every Skeptoid Adventure is unique and you won't want to miss this one!

Reserve your tickets now! Just a $500 deposit will reserve your spot.

This Adventure begins immediately after the New Orleans Escapade, so you can join one, join the other, or save $500 and come on both!

BUY TICKETS

BUY DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR BOTH TRIPS