Madeira Beach: Pirate Cruise at John's Pass for Families

Summary

Set sail from John’s Pass on a pirate ship full of laughter games & Gulf views

You’ll step aboard a real pirate ship at John’s Pass in Madeira Beach, join lively games led by costumed crew, take in Gulf views with your family, and maybe spot dolphins along the way. Expect playful moments for kids—and adults who don’t mind being silly—with water included and plenty of time to soak up local color.

What’s the experience like?

We boarded the Royal Conquest at John’s Pass—this big red pirate ship that honestly looks like something out of a storybook, but with the smell of sunscreen and popcorn drifting over from the boardwalk. The crew was already in character, yelling “Ahoy!” at my son (who immediately forgot he was shy). There was this salty breeze off Madeira Beach, and I could hear seagulls fighting over fries somewhere behind us. I didn’t expect to grin so much before we even left the dock.

Once we set off, our guide—Captain Liam, who had a fake parrot but a real knack for jokes—got everyone cheering. He handed out bandanas to the kids (and okay, I wore one too), then led us through some pirate games that got even the grownups involved. At one point, my daughter tried to “walk the plank” (it’s just a little wooden board on deck) and ended up giggling so hard she almost fell over. The water out here is this weirdly perfect blue-green—I kept catching myself staring at it instead of listening to the treasure hunt clues. You know how sometimes you forget you’re on a tour? That happened.

The cruise itself isn’t long—maybe 90 minutes—but there’s just enough time to spot dolphins if you’re lucky (we saw two fins, or maybe it was just wishful thinking). The sun felt warm but not too much, and there’s shade on the lower deck if you need it. I chatted with another parent about where to get good seafood in Madeira Beach; she swore by a place called Dockside Dave’s. We swapped numbers—I love when that happens traveling.

By the end, my kids were sticky from juice boxes and face paint, waving plastic swords around like they owned the Gulf of Mexico. Captain Liam handed out “pirate certificates” (my son is still carrying his around), and we drifted back toward John’s Pass Village with all its noisy shops and ice cream stands. I still think about how easy it felt to just play along for an afternoon—no pressure to do anything but laugh and watch the water roll by.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore John's Pass and Madeira Beach

• Visit John's Pass Village
• Enjoy shopping and restaurants
• Experience boats and sightseeing
• Relax at Madeira Beach
• Feel the sand and explore town

Top questions

Is the Pirate Adventure Cruise suitable for young children?

Yes, it's designed for all ages including young kids—infants can sit on an adult's lap.

How long does the cruise last?

The cruise lasts about 90 minutes total.

Is there food or drink available on board?

Water is included; other snacks may be available nearby at John's Pass Village.

Is the pirate ship wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Royal Conquest is wheelchair accessible.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from John's Pass Village in Madeira Beach, Florida.

Is there parking nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are nearby and parking is available around John's Pass Village.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing from John’s Pass on a Coast Guard-inspected pirate ship with water provided onboard; there are restrooms available during your sightseeing cruise along Madeira Beach before returning to explore shops or grab lunch nearby.