St. Augustine: Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show

If you’re looking to entertain the kids and indulge your inner pirate, the St. Augustine Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show offers a fun-filled 1.5-hour voyage aboard a real pirate ship. This experience combines lively performances, interactive activities, and the chance to spot dolphins—making it an appealing option for families, history buffs, and anyone craving a splash of adventure.

What we love most about this tour is its interactive nature. Kids and adults alike are pulled into the pirate world through improv performances, sword fights, and treasure hunts that feel spontaneous and genuine. The lively crew ensures everyone feels involved, and the live cannon fire adds an extra layer of excitement. However, one thing to consider is that the activity isn’t wheelchair or stroller accessible, which might limit some visitors’ participation.

Ultimately, this experience suits families with young children, groups seeking lighthearted entertainment, and anyone interested in a unique sightseeing twist. If you’re after a laid-back, engaging adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and a dose of humor, this cruise could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Family-friendly fun with interactive pirate shows, sword fights, and treasure hunts
• Opportunity to see dolphins during the cruise, adding a wildlife element
• Authentic pirate ship built specifically for performance, adding to the immersive feel
• Cost-effective at $45 per person, offering 1.5 hours of lively entertainment
• Activity is not wheelchair or stroller accessible
• Flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Pirate Treasure Hunt Cruise Experience

The Setting: A Genuine Pirate Ship in St. Augustine

What immediately catches your eye is that the cruise is run on a ship designed specifically as a floating performance stage. The Black Raven Pirate Ship isn’t just for show; it was built for the purpose of hosting lively pirate performances, which means you’ll enjoy a more seamless, theatrical experience unlike generic boat rides. The ship’s design allows for close-up interactions with pirates, making the show more immersive.

Starting at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, the check-in process is straightforward—guests meet inside the Black Raven Ship Store to pick up boarding passes. This process helps keep things organized and ensures everyone is ready to step into the pirate world once boarding begins.

The Safety Briefing and Crew Introduction

Before setting sail, there’s a 15-minute safety briefing on the dock, which also introduces the crew—characters who are not just performers but seasoned storytellers. Reviewers mention that guides like James, for example, demonstrate a solid knowledge of the show and keep the energy high. These crew members excel at improvising, making each voyage slightly different and more engaging.

The Cruise: Black Raven Pirate Ship in Action

The 75-minute cruise around the Matanzas River offers plenty of chances to marvel at the scenic waterway and waterfront homes. But the real star is the live pirate show happening onboard. The crew aims to deliver the best pirate performance in Florida, and based on reviews, they’ve succeeded in creating a lively, humorous, and interactive environment.

Guests can expect:

• Jokes and songs suitable for all ages, delivered with enthusiasm
• Sword fights and pirate antics, with children encouraged to participate
• Live cannon fire, adding an authentic touch to the performance
• Opportunities for kids to get involved, including sword fighting and treasure hunting, which reviewers say is extremely well-received

Leaving the Ship with Treasure and Memories

At the end of the cruise, children receive shared treasure, a delightful keepsake that caps off the adventure. Several reviews highlight how kids loved chasing pirates for treasure and participating in the show. The experience fosters a sense of involvement that many travelers find memorable and worth every penny.

Dolphin Spotting and Wildlife

An unexpected bonus is the chance to see dolphins during feeding time. Passengers often report seeing playful dolphins alongside the ship, which adds a wildlife viewing element that elevates this cruise above typical boat rides. It’s a particularly joyful moment for families, as kids love spotting these intelligent creatures.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: St. Augustine Municipal Marina

The adventure kicks off from this central location, close to the iconic Bridge of Lions. The ease of access and proximity to downtown makes it convenient for visitors.

Safety Briefing and Crew Introduction

This initial 15-minute segment ensures everyone is aware of safety protocols and gets introduced to the crew—who are often described as enthusiastic and engaging. This segment sets the tone for a lively, interactive experience.

The Voyage: Matanzas River

The 75-minute cruise on the water allows for both scenic views and entertainment. Passengers can sit back in the sun or shade, depending on the weather, and enjoy the show unfolding around them. The crew often improvises, making each trip feel fresh and spontaneous.

Return and Treasure Distribution

After sailing, guests return to the marina, with children receiving their share of treasure. Reviewers mention that the photo opportunities with pirates at the end are a highlight, giving families a chance to capture special moments.

The Value Proposition

At $45 per person, this tour offers a competitive price point considering the length, entertainment, and interactive elements. The inclusion of live performances, sword fighting, cannon fire, and wildlife viewing makes it quite a comprehensive mini-escape into pirate life. For families with young kids, the value is even clearer—this isn’t a passive boat ride; it’s a full-on theatrical experience.

While the activity’s duration is only 1.5 hours, the memories created tend to last. Many reviewers praise the crew’s energy and the genuine engagement of the pirates, which makes the experience feel personalized rather than just a scripted show.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

It’s worth noting that the activity isn’t wheelchair or stroller friendly, so plan accordingly if you have mobility limitations. Guests are advised to arrive at least 45 minutes early, as parking near the marina can be limited. The activity ends back at the starting point, simplifying logistics.

Why You’ll Love This Experience

This cruise is ideal if you’re traveling with kids who love pirates or if you want a lighthearted, engaging activity after days of exploring historic St. Augustine. The combination of a scenic river cruise with a lively, improvised pirate show makes for a memorable outing, especially since the crew’s humor appeals to all ages.

The opportunity to spot dolphins adds a touch of wildlife magic, and the interactive nature keeps everyone involved. Plus, the authentic pirate ship setting elevates this experience above typical boat rides.

Who Should Consider It?

Families with children aged roughly 4-12 will find the most joy here, especially those wanting an active, entertaining afternoon. It’s also suitable for groups looking for a fun social activity, and anyone interested in a playful, theatrical look at pirate lore. However, if you’re seeking a quiet, passive cruise or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the tour? The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the safety briefing and the voyage itself.
• Where do I meet for the cruise? You meet inside the Black Raven Ship Store at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina to pick up your boarding passes.
• Is the activity suitable for all ages? It’s designed to be family-friendly with humor, sword fights, and treasure hunts; however, it’s not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Are there any additional costs? The price is $45 per person; extras like souvenirs or snacks are not included but are available for purchase.
• Will I see dolphins during the cruise? Many reviews mention spotting dolphins during feeding time, adding a wildlife touch to your pirate adventure.
• Is parking available nearby? On-site parking isn’t available; guests should arrive at least 45 minutes early to find parking at the marina.

The St. Augustine Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show provides a lively, family-oriented adventure that balances scenic waterway views with interactive entertainment. Its well-designed, purpose-built pirate ship enhances the authenticity, while the crew’s improvisational style ensures each trip feels authentic and engaging.

If you’re after a value-packed, fun, and memorable outing in St. Augustine, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially suited for families with kids eager to participate, but anyone young at heart will find joy in the humor, pirates, and dolphin sightings.

While it’s not accessible for everyone and requires some planning (early arrival and parking), the overall experience is a delightful mix of entertainment, scenery, and a touch of wild adventure. Prepare to laugh, cheer, and maybe even learn a little about pirate life, all while cruising the beautiful waters of Florida.

Happy sailing, pirates and landlubbers alike—this tour offers a genuine taste of the high seas, right in the charming city of St. Augustine.