Some boat rides ask kids to sit still and enjoy the view.
Pirate Adventures of Cortez does the opposite.
This 75-minute pirate cruise puts kids right in the middle of the story, complete with costumes, pirate tattoos, a hidden treasure map, a message in a bottle, water cannons, a bad pirate named Pirate Pete, and a real sunken treasure.
This isn’t a pirate-themed boat ride. It’s a full-on pirate adventure where kids run the show.
Pirate Adventures of Cortez operates aboard the Sea Gypsy IV, a pirate ship replica with a mast, flags, water cannons, and room for 38 passengers.
The whole thing is built for kids who are ready to dress up, get loud, and believe that they have very important pirate business to handle.
Before the boat leaves the dock, kids check in, get pirate tattoos, and choose from shared dress-up pieces like pirate vests, sashes, and mermaid-style tutus. There are extra pirate accessories available for purchase too, in case someone needs an eye patch or sword to properly commit to the role.
Kids learn pirate words. They help raise the flags and search for clues. Then, they discover there’s treasure to find and a bad pirate standing in the way.
And that’s when the real adventure begins.
There are working water cannons, an epic battle, and a treasure chest full of loot for the kids to share. It all ends with a pirate party on deck, complete with limbo and a kid-friendly drink called grog.
Grown-ups get the easy job
Adults stay on board, but they are not the main event.
The kids gather up front with the crew, while grown-ups can sit back and watch the whole thing unfold. Parents are still responsible for their children, of course. But the crew keeps them busy from start to finish, so you can kick back and enjoy the ride.
According to Captain Blimey, families are often surprised by how much happens on the cruise and how interactive it really is. Many expect a cute pirate-themed ride. But this is so much more.
The kids are engaged. They’re yelling, laughing, and making new friends. And more often than not, they’re already asking when they can come back again.
A true kid-centered experience
Pirate Adventures of Cortez is centered on kids and is typically recommended for those between the ages of 3 and 10. “Younger kids can still come on board,” Captain Blimey says. “But the sweet spot is the age where they can follow the story, yell pirate words, and really get into the adventure.”
He’s also really clear about what Pirate Adventures is – and what it’s not. There is no bar on board the ship. Adults cannot book a trip without a participating child, and alcohol is not allowed.
Pirate Adventures is also Coast Guard-inspected, insured, and operated by a Coast Guard-licensed captain. The route stays in protected local waters around Palma Sola Bay, Anna Maria Sound, and the Cortez Bridge area.
Not just for tourists
Not surprisingly, these Pirate Adventures are a big hit among tourists. But locals are a big part of the story too. Many area families make it an annual tradition, and grandparents love to bring visiting grandchildren.
Schools, PTOs, Girl Scout troops, and community groups can also book field trips, with special pricing available. And if you’re looking for a unique birthday party idea, this is it. You can book a private charter so you and your guests will have the whole boat all to yourselves.
A North Carolina ship with a Florida second act
The Sea Gypsy IV was originally part of the Pirate Adventures operation in the Outer Banks, North Carolina. Captain Jimmy Morgenroth started working on the boat when he was 15 years old. In 2018, he helped bring the boat to Florida with the previous owners, looking for warmer weather, a longer season, and a new place to bring the treasure hunt to life.
After inspections and setup, Pirate Adventures reopened here in 2019.
Then, in 2023, Morgenroth (pirate name, Captain Blimey) became the full owner of the business.
Only a handful of locations around the country still use the Pirate Adventures name and storyline, and each one is separately owned. The one here in Cortez is the only one in Florida, making it a real local gem.
What to know before you go
Pirate Adventures of Cortez sails from Parrot Cove Marina at 11510 36th Ave W in Bradenton, near the Cortez Bridge and Palma Sola Bay.
Tickets are $34 for adults and children. Infants under 12 months are $24.
Typical sailing times are 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5:30 p.m., but the schedule can change by season. Pirate Adventures is busiest during school breaks, including spring break, summer, and Christmas break, and may pause or reduce operations during the slower fall months.
The adventure lasts 75 minutes on the water. You should arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled sailing time for check-in, tattoos, dress-up, and boarding.
You can learn more and book your tickets at PirateAdventuresOfCortez.com. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with their latest adventures and updates. And when you book, be sure to let them know you saw it on Discover Bradenton!
HIDDEN GEMS
PALMETTO / ELLENTON
