Ahoy, young adventurers! Ready to turn your kids into real pirates (at least for a little while)?
The Pirates of Charleston Adventure Cruise in Charleston, SC is a super fun, hands-on experience where families board a real wooden pirate ship and take off on a swashbuckling ride filled with treasure hunts, pirate battles, and silly fun.
We’re sharing everything you need to know before you go — including when to go, ticket prices, what to bring, and what your crew can expect aboard The Black Ghost.
What Is the Pirates of Charleston Cruise?
The Pirates of Charleston cruise is a pirate-themed boat ride for families aboard a 45-foot wooden ship named The Black Ghost.
Kids become part of the crew — dressing up, battling sneaky pirates, firing water cannons, and searching for treasure! Adults get to enjoy the scenic Ashley River views while cheering on their little swashbucklers.
You can also add a pirate accessory package when you buy tickets, which includes:
- A foam sword
- A pirate bandana
- And plenty of swagger
My kids declared this their favorite event of the season. They loved doing the limbo, cleaning the deck with their kid-sized mop, and earning their pirate names. It was such a fun day!
Watch! our Pirate Cruise in Charleston, SC
Pirate Cruise Schedule & Duration
- Cruise length: ~1 hour and 30 minutes
- Adventure Cruises: Sail May–September
- Pirate School Cruises: Offered weekends in October
- Arrival: Be there 15 minutes early for check-in
Ticket Prices
- General admission: $39/person (kids, youth, and adults all the same)
- Infants (0–1 year): Some options offer a reduced rate (~$10)
- Note: Even lap infants need a ticket
Where to Go
- Meeting Spot: Look for the yellow “Pirates” sign in front of the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charleston Riverview
(Address: 11 Ashley Point Drive, Charleston, SC) - Check-in: Happens on land, where you’ll get briefed before boarding
What Happens On Deck: Pirate Cruise Activities
1. Become a Pirate
- Every kid gets a pirate name — ours were High Seas and Cannonball, and they still use them!
- Optional dress-up with bandanas, scarves, or pirate gear
2. Pirate School
- Learn how to talk like a pirate (Arrghh!)
- Practice safe sword-fighting with foam swords
3. Treasure Hunt
- Follow a pirate map
- Help recover a stolen key from Sneaky Pete, a mischievous pirate you’ll chase down by boat
4. Water Cannon Battle
- Fire real water cannons to defeat Sneaky Pete!
- Expect a little spray — it’s part of the fun
5. Sailing & Sea Songs
- Cruise down the Ashley River toward Wappoo Creek
- Spot local wildlife and sing fun pirate songs
6. Celebrate the Victory
- Once Sneaky Pete is defeated, there’s a party on deck
- Kids receive treasure and may even graduate from Pirate School with a diploma from the captain
Tips for Your Pirate Adventure
- Dress for the weather: The boat is covered but not enclosed — bring sunscreen, a hat, and dress for possible light rain or water spray
- Water-friendly fun: You may get a little wet from the water cannons
- Accessibility: Wheelchairs and folding strollers are allowed, but space is limited
- Food & Drink: No food served; small snacks OK; bring your own drinks
Ready to Set Sail?
The Pirates of Charleston cruise is a one-of-a-kind family activity — especially for kids who love dress-up, water play, or just yelling “ARRRGH!” at strangers. It’s silly, fun, active, and memory-making all at once.
Visit the Pirates of Charleston website to book.
Has your family sailed with these pirates before? Share your favorite part in the comments!
Find lots more Things to Do in Charleston, SC
