Charleston: Pirate Adventure Cruise for Kids & Families

Summary

Charleston harbor pirate cruise with treasure hunt & water cannons

You’ll step aboard a real wooden pirate ship in Charleston harbor, where kids get their own pirate names and join a lively crew for a treasure hunt. Battle Sneaky Pete with water cannons, belt out sea shanties, and explore creeks along the Ashley River—all guided by locals who know how to make families laugh. It’s messy fun you’ll remember long after your shoes dry.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to be laughing so hard at 9am, but there we were—my daughter in a too-big pirate hat, me trying to remember how to say “Arrr!” without sounding like a sheep. The Black Ghost was docked under a sky that felt sticky already (Charleston in July), and our captain—who everyone just called Red—handed out sashes and bandanas while telling the kids about Sneaky Pete. One little guy insisted his pirate name was “Captain Hotdog.” Red just rolled with it. I liked that.

The boat creaked as we pushed off into the Ashley River, and suddenly it felt real—gulls overhead, brackish air, the slap of water against wood. Our guide pointed out a shrimp boat sliding past, and my son got distracted counting pelicans instead of listening to the pirate rules. There was this moment when all the kids started shouting sea shanties (loudly and off-key) and honestly? I thought I’d cringe but it was weirdly joyful. The main keyword here is pirate adventure cruise but it’s more like organized chaos with a view of Charleston’s skyline drifting by.

Somewhere near Wappoo Creek things got serious—Sneaky Pete (who looked suspiciously like one of the crew) tried to swipe the treasure key and all hell broke loose with water cannons. My daughter missed every shot but didn’t care; she was howling with laughter anyway. The sun came out strong then, glinting off the pretend gold coins they handed out at the end. We sat on deck after, salty hair sticking up everywhere, watching the city fade behind us. I still think about that view sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Pirate adventure cruise for kids

• Outfit children with pirate attire
• Learn pirate speech and names
• Board the Black Ghost ship
• Sail Ashley River to Wappoo Creek
• Sing sea shanties and hunt treasure
• Battle Sneaky Pete with water cannons
• Reclaim submerged loot and celebrate

Top questions

Is this pirate adventure cruise suitable for young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join—the boat allows prams or strollers.

Does the tour include costumes for kids?

Pirate attire is available for children before boarding but is optional.

Are there water cannon battles during the cruise?

Yes, all crew members (kids) can use water cannons as part of the adventure.

Is the Black Ghost Pirate Ship wheelchair accessible?

Yes, both transportation options and the activity are wheelchair accessible.

How long does it take before setting sail?

The first 15 minutes are spent outfitting kids and learning pirate lingo before departure.

Do adults participate in activities or just watch?

Adults can join in or watch; most activities focus on kids but families are welcome to participate together.

Where does the pirate cruise go?

The route follows Charleston harbor into Ashley River toward Wappoo Creek.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

What’s included

Your morning includes boarding Charleston’s Black Ghost ship with local guides who outfit each child as a pirate (costumes optional), teach them sea shanties and pirate lingo, then set sail for a hands-on treasure hunt along Ashley River—with full access to water cannons for every young buccaneer before returning to shore together.