‘The Curse of Oak Island’ keeps fans hooked as new clues fuel the Lagina brothers’ quest for treasure in Season 12

Something about an island evokes thoughts of adventure. Add a buried treasure to the mix, and that adventure becomes an obsession.

Although more than 300 islands dot Mahone Bay along the south shore of Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast, one island in particular has attracted treasure hunters for over two centuries.

The debate over Oak Island’s treasure versus tragedy story is so intense that it has spurred a television hit for the HISTORY Channel. 

For those unfamiliar with the show, The Curse of Oak Island follows brothers Rick and Marty Lagina and their team as they attempt to solve the island’s mysteries and find its hidden treasure.

Season 12 of the hit show premieres November 12, 2024.

Why do the Lagina brothers have high hopes for finding the treasure? The team recently tested water samples from an area of interest, and the results indicate the presence of precious metals.

Whether the forested island holds treasures from the Knights Templar or pirates remains to be seen. But the Lagina brothers and their team are more optimistic than ever.

The History Behind the Mystery of Oak Island

adwo/shutterstock

Legend has it that Oak Island holds a secret treasure, but many believe a curse guards it. The curse claims that seven lives must be lost before the treasure can be uncovered. 

So far, six people have perished in pursuit of its secrets.

Over the years, valuable items have been discovered, but none have yet to unearth treasures of lore. Discoveries include artifacts dating back to medieval times and a lead cross that some believe is a link to the Knights Templar.

Stories about the island containing treasure emerged in the late 18th century. In 1795, Daniel McGinnis spotted a strange depression in the ground at the eastern end of Oak Island, where pirates were known to frequent. McGinnis suspected the depression may be a burial site chock full of treasure.

Seawater and Setbacks: The Elusive Treasure

adwo/shutterstock

With the help of friends, McGinnis started digging in the area, discovering something unique—platforms composed of oak logs at ten-foot intervals, continuing to a depth of 90 feet. 

At the bottom of the pit, they found a heavy rectangular stone engraved with strange symbols.

When treasure hunters removed the stone, seawater flooded the “Money Pit.” Instead of discouraging future explorers, this booby trap only intensified the legends surrounding the elusive treasure.

In 1805, treasure hunters dug the infamous “Shaft 2,” about 14 feet southeast of the Money Pit. They burrowed to a depth of 110 feet and then dug a tunnel toward the Money Pit, hoping to recover the treasure from below. 

Only two feet from their target, treasure hunters were once again thwarted by seawater rushing into the tunnel. 

Despite these mishaps, the treasure hunt continues. 

Can Fans Visit Oak Island?

Patrick Hatt/shutterstock

Many travelers long to visit the mysterious Oak Island, but unfortunately, it is private property that is not open to the public. However, that may change soon. 

Rick and Marty Lagina recognize the demand and are working to provide public tours to fans and treasure hunters in 2025. They hope to allow people to tour essential areas of the island and showcase artifact discoveries in a museum.

In the meantime, you can visit and stay in the surrounding communities of Chester, Western Shore, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg. Each community offers accommodations that combine modern amenities with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century charm.

Beyond friendly people and delicious food, these Nova Scotia towns offer unique recreational opportunities like sailing, lighthouse viewing, and whale watching. The trip is worthwhile, even if you only go for the stunning scenery and mouthwatering seafood.

Follow the Lagina Brothers on the HISTORY Channel

The HISTORY Channel

Learn more about the history of Oak Island here. Be sure to follow the adventures of the Lagina brothers and their team this season on the HISTORY Channel. 

It just may inspire your next island adventure.