Hilton Head: Pirate Ship Adventure Cruise for Families

Summary

Kids turn pirates on hilton head’s black dagger ship with real treasure hunt

You’ll watch your kids transform into pirates on Hilton Head’s Black Dagger ship — face paint, costumes, water cannon battles against Stinky Pete, and a real treasure hunt. There’s laughter from start to finish, plenty of surprises from the crew, and every child gets their own piece of pirate loot to take home.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was a little nervous when my daughter started eyeing the face paint — she’s usually shy about costumes. But the crew at Hilton Head’s pirate ship adventure didn’t rush her. “Every good pirate needs a name,” said our guide (Captain Bones, he insisted), and somehow she ended up with a little mustache and a bandana before I could blink. The smell of sunscreen mixed with that salty marina air — it just felt like summer vacation should.

Once we climbed aboard the Black Dagger, things got loud fast. The kids were shouting “Aye aye!” and waving foam swords around while Captain Bones told us about Stinky Pete (the villain — who really leans into his role). I didn’t expect to laugh so much at grown adults pretending to be pirates, but honestly? It was contagious. My son took the water cannon job way too seriously when Stinky Pete showed up in his little boat — I caught myself cheering him on. There’s something about watching your kid blast a stranger with water that’s weirdly satisfying.

The whole pirate cruise from Hilton Head was about ninety minutes, but it went by in this blur of singing sea shanties, fake tattoos, and plotting how to find the treasure chest (which actually had some loot inside — not just plastic coins). At one point, my daughter tried out her best “Arrr!” and even Captain Bones had to pause and laugh. We didn’t get wet but somehow ended up sticky from all the excitement. I still think about that moment when she clutched her share of the booty like it was real gold.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Pirate ship adventure and treasure hunt

• Get pirate gear and face paint
• Learn to walk and talk like pirates
• Board the Black Dagger ship
• Set sail to find treasure
• Man water cannons against Stinky Pete
• Defeat Stinky Pete and retrieve key
• Celebrate with singing, dancing, and treasure

Top questions

How long is the Hilton Head pirate ship adventure?

The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Is there a restroom on the Black Dagger boat?

No, there is no restroom onboard; use facilities before boarding.

Do kids get wet during the water cannon battle?

No, kids do not get wet during the adventure.

Is pirate dress up included in the tour?

Yes, pirate gear including dress up and face paint is included.

Can adults participate or is it just for kids?

Adults can join but most activities are designed for children.

Are snacks or drinks provided on board?

No snacks or drinks are provided; you may bring your own small snack or drink.

Does this tour operate in rainy weather?

The tour operates in most conditions; dress appropriately for weather.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the dock.

What’s included

Your adventure includes pirate dress up with face paint and tattoos for kids, a lively 90-minute cruise aboard the Black Dagger ship around Hilton Head Island, an epic water cannon battle against Stinky Pete, and every child gets their own share of treasure to keep as a souvenir before heading back ashore together.