If you’ve ever dreamed of setting sail on a pirate ship, this is your chance—without leaving Florida. The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise in Destin offers a lively, family-friendly 2-hour voyage that combines interactive pirate-themed activities with stunning views of the coast. At just $55 per person, it’s a spirited way to spend part of your day, especially if you’re traveling with kids who love a bit of adventure.
We love that this cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about getting into character, learning some pirate skills, and sharing a memorable experience that kids and adults alike will talk about long after the ship docks. Two things stand out: the interactive pirate training and the treasure hunt, both designed to keep the little pirates engaged and excited.
One possible consideration is that the cruise is quite packed with activities, which might be overwhelming for some children, especially those with sensory sensitivities. But if your kids enjoy lively, playful environments, they’ll be in heaven. This experience suits families with children eager to dress up, learn pirate moves, and hunt for hidden treasures while enjoying the beauty of the Emerald Coast.
Key Points
- Family-friendly adventure packed with pirate activities and humor
- Interactive experiences like sword fighting, water gun battles, and treasure hunts
- Scenic views and live cannon fire add authenticity to the pirate voyage
- Affordable price considering the included entertainment and fun
- Accessible and well-organized, suitable for most children and adults
- Photo opportunities abound—don’t forget your camera
The Setting: What to Expect on Your Pirate Voyage
From the moment you arrive at the dock, you’ll notice that this isn’t your average boat ride. The boarding dock is conveniently located to the left of Margaritaville, and check-in is straightforward. Once aboard, you’ll quickly realize that this is a themed experience designed to transform everyone into pirates, young and old.
The ship itself is decorated to evoke the golden age of piracy, with plenty of space for kids to move around and participate in activities. The cruise lasts about two hours, making it long enough to enjoy multiple pirate-themed events without feeling tired or restless.
The host crew are engaging and friendly, with a knack for storytelling and humor that appeals across age groups. The live pirate show is sprinkled with songs and jokes, creating a lively atmosphere. As the ship sets sail, the adventure kicks into gear.
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A Closer Look at the Itinerary
Pirate Training and Sword Fighting
One of the most popular parts of the cruise is the pirate training session. Here, kids learn how to walk like pirates, handle a sword (foam or plastic, of course), and even perform a simple pirate shimmy. Parents often comment how these moments turn ordinary children into little buccaneers with big smiles.
Treasure Hunt and Water Battles
Next up is the treasure hunt—an exciting scavenger game that guides kids around the deck, searching for clues and hidden treasures. The treasure chests typically contain small prizes, but the real reward is the thrill of discovery.
Meanwhile, the water gun battles are a hit, especially on a sunny day. Kids (and maybe the kids at heart) can challenge each other in spirited water fights, adding a splash of fun and cooling relief.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Cannon Fire and Humor
This isn’t just pretend—live cannon fire adds a touch of authenticity, with the crew explaining the history and safety measures involved. The pirate characters deliver humorous songs and jokes, making sure everyone is entertained and engaged.
The Finale: Honorary Pirate
Only those brave enough to complete the pirate training are welcomed as honorary members of the Buccaneer Crew—a badge of pride for kids and a fun souvenir for photos.
What’s Not Included and Tips for Your Visit
While the cruise offers a lot for its price, souvenirs, snacks, and drinks are available for purchase onboard. The galley mates serve grog for adults (a pirate’s version of beer) and water for everyone, helping you stay hydrated under the Florida sun.
Remember to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and your camera—the scenery and playful moments make for great photos. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, but pets are only allowed if they’re assistance animals, and mobility scooters or electric wheelchairs are not permitted onboard.
Authenticity and Fun: What Travelers Say
Feedback from visitors highlights a generally positive experience. One traveler mentioned that “the actors/pirates were very good and engaged the kids completely,” emphasizing the crew’s talent for storytelling and interaction. Another noted that their grandchildren “absolutely loved this pirate ship experience,” and the activities were “well planned out.”
Some minor concerns popped up—one reviewer suggested that the sound system for the crew could be improved, as it was sometimes hard to hear. Others appreciated the clean bathrooms and the friendly staff, describing the crew as “so nice and very good with kids.”
The 4.7-star rating from 45 reviews reflects a solid endorsement, especially for families seeking a lively, immersive experience.
Why This Tour Stands Out
This cruise isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a themed adventure that transforms the water into a pirate’s playground. It’s especially suited for children who love role-playing, storytelling, and active fun. The sense of camaraderie among kids and the crew’s enthusiasm makes this a memorable outing.
The cost of $55 per person is reasonable given the quality of entertainment, the scenic environment, and the engaging activities offered. Plus, with live shows and interactive games, it offers a lot of value for a family looking for a playful day out.
Who Will Love It and Who Might Want to Skip
This tour is perfect for families with young children, particularly those aged 5 to 12, who enjoy active, playful experiences. It’s also great for parents who want their kids to learn a bit about pirates in a safe, fun environment.
If your kids are shy or prefer quieter museums and beaches, or if you’re looking for a relaxing, adult-only cruise, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you or your family are sensitive to loud noises or highly energetic environments, consider that the cruise can be lively and noisy.
Final Thoughts
The Destin Buccaneer Pirate Cruise offers an authentic, engaging way to add some adventure to your vacation. It combines interactive pirate activities with scenic ocean views, making it ideal for families eager for a lively day out. The crew’s enthusiasm and the well-planned activities create a sense of adventure that kids will talk about for years.
While not overly long or expensive, it provides great value for the memories created. Whether your children want to sword fight like a pirate, hunt for treasure, or simply enjoy the water, this cruise ticks all those boxes with a splash of humor and a dash of authenticity.
If you’re visiting Destin and want a fun, family-oriented experience that’s a bit different from the usual beach day, this pirate cruise is worth setting sail for. It captures the spirit of adventure in a way that’s accessible, lively, and full of smiles.
FAQs
What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon activity without taking up your whole day.
Where do I meet for the cruise?
The boarding dock is located to the left of Margaritaville restaurant when facing the water, and check-in is simple.
Is it suitable for young children?
Yes, the cruise is designed to be family-friendly with activities tailored for children, including pirate training, treasure hunts, and sword fighting.
Can adults participate in the activities?
Absolutely! Adults can join in the water gun battles, watch the shows, or simply enjoy the scenery and relax.
Are there any age restrictions?
While the activities are geared toward children, there are no formal age restrictions. However, children should be comfortable with lively, active environments.
Is there any food or drinks included?
No, souvenirs, snacks, and drinks are available for purchase onboard. The crew serves water and grog for adults.
Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, but pets are only permitted if they are assistance animals.
What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, camera, and cash for extras. Don’t forget your enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.
Is the crew friendly and engaging?
Based on reviews, the crew is described as “amazing,” friendly, and very good with kids, making the experience enjoyable and lively.
Whether you’re a parent looking to entertain your kids or a family wanting a memorable story to tell, the Destin Buccaneer Pirate Cruise delivers a fun-filled day on the water, full of lively activities and authentic pirate flavor.
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