While we were in St Augustine and driving past the harbour on our hop on, hop off trolley tour, our guide mentioned a pirate cruise that was available. Harry began looking into it almost immediately, which is how we found ourselves aboard the ship on our final evening in the city.

The Ships

The company who run the tours, Black Raven Adventures, own two boats which they have turned into their very own pirate ships. One is used for the cruises that run in the daytime for younger audiences, while the other is larger and used for the passengers of both cruises. Both ships have the stereotypical red and black colour scheme, and a skull and crossbones flag flying above the crow’s nest, while the larger ship also has a bar incorporated into the design.

The Daytime Experience

The cruises that take place during the day are known as “Blackbeard’s Treasure Hunt” and is suitable for all ages.

Contrary to popular belief the pirates take you on these adventures are actually friendly, giving lessons to the kids onboard in sword fighting so that they can protect themselves from any attacks.

On this hour and a half long trip you get to learn pirate jokes and songs, have your face painted and receive a share of the treasure!

The Adult Only Experience

This is the experience that Harry and I took part in. I can honestly say that it was a highlight of our holiday.

Known as “Rum Runners”, the experience not only offers a fully licensed bar with speciality cocktails, but a more adult version of the Treasure Hunt’s show.

The Rum Runners cruise uses more explicit language as well as more risqué jokes/songs that aren’t suitable for certain audiences. You will have your IDs checked before receiving your tickets to avoid any underage stowaways.

This cruise also lasts a little longer than Blackbeard’s Treasure Hunt, being somewhere between an hour, forty-five minutes and two hours.

The Pirates

As the shows are improvised and vary depending on the audience’s participation, the actors are very good at thinking on their feet while remaining in character. Their levels of enthusiasm are contagious which engages the audience even more, and during breaks they interact with those on board, finding out information that they then incorporate into the act.

Special Occasions

Participating in one of these cruises to celebrate a special occasion is a great idea honestly. As I mentioned in the article on our ghost tour, we were in St Augustine for Harry’s birthday, so when asked if it was anyone’s birthday, his friend and I pointed out his was the day before. This meant that he had the entire ship singing to him!

Conclusion

If you are looking for a fun couple of hours with a truly interactive experience, then it is definitely worth going on a Black Raven Adventure. We loved this cruise and have mentioned it every time that people asked about our trip.