Kids Pirate Birthday Cruise FAQ
Where do we meet?
We meet at the yellow ‘Pirates‘ sign in front of the La Quinta Hotel @ Ripley Light Marina located at 11 Ashley Point Drive in Charleston.
How early should I arrive for my cruise?
While pirates typically live outside the law, we pride ourselves on being punctual and we ask that you plan to ARRIVE EARLY (we suggest 15 minutes prior to your assigned check-in time) for your adventure as we can’t hold the cruise for stragglers.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Once your booking is made, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to complete the waiver for all of your passengers. You can also sign the waiver by clicking here!
What about the weather?
The Black Ghost has a cover but no enclosed spaces and Charleston weather can be unpredictable!
If it’s sunny, we highly recommend sunscreen. If it’s cloudy, consider a light rain jacket. We will still sail in a light drizzle – we’re pirates after all! Also, it’s possible that a little light spray from the water cannons blows back aboard from the wind, but we typically stay dry.
Are reservations required?
Pirate Birthday Parties are private functions where you charter the entire ship (up to 30 people) for your celebration. We recommend booking early to ensure that we can accommodate your party on the day that you wish.
Where's the best place to park?
There be plenty of free parking directly in front of the marina. The La Quinta Hotel offers paid parking along the left side of the hotel (as you face the front of the hotel).
Can we dress like pirates?
Of course! In fact, we encourage it!!!
Don’t have pirate swag? You can order pirate headscarfs, foam swords and treasure pouches when you book your cruise or when you check-in for your adventure.
Can the ship accommodate a wheelchair?
We can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility walkers but are unable to allow any motorized scooters on the ship. All children are included in all activities aboard the ship.
Is there a bathroom on the ship?
Pirates aren’t used to lavish accommodations. That said, there is a head with a mini port-a-potty on-board, but we recommend using shore-based restroom facilities before we cruise.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full details on our cancelation policy may be found here.
Can I bring food and drinks aboard?
Simple Answer:
Drinks: Yes
Food: No
Drinks (even grog) and a small cooler are welcome aboard. We ask that you do not bring food as we pack so much into every cruise that there’s literally no time nor a place for eating.
Can we bring/open presents on-board?
No; We pack so much into every cruise that there’s literally no time for anything but being a pirate!
Best ages for pirate crew members?
The majority of the adventure is aimed at children between the ages of 3 to 10 years old. That said, we’ve entertained everyone from two-year-olds to 90-year-old nanas!
Should I worry about getting sea sick?
Our cruise takes us on relatively calm waters. Therefore, motion sickness is normally not an issue, although the ship may occasionally rock on another boat’s wake.
Do I need to bring personal flotation devices (PFDs)?
We have plenty of USCG approved life jackets on board, so no need to bring any.
Can I bring a stoller on-board?
Folding strollers are permissible, but most cruises fill up to capacity and there is very little room. Considering the length of the cruise, it’s best if you can go without bringing it aboard.
