When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Emerald City Pirates

Why Emerald City Pirates is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Emerald City Pirates offers a unique and exciting pirate-themed cruise experience anchored in the heart of Seattle on the scenic waters of Lake Union and Lake Washington. This full-time pirate ship cruise welcomes families, groups, and adults for an interactive and fun-filled adventure. During the daytime, families can enjoy engaging activities like choosing pirate names, firing water cannons, playing limbo, and going on a treasure hunt, making it an ideal gathering spot to celebrate birthdays, corporate events, or just a day out with friends and loved ones. In the evenings, the atmosphere transforms into an energetic adult pirate party cruise where guests can dance, play games, and enjoy drinks in a lively pirate setting. The ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, is equipped for comfort and adventure with onboard restrooms and a friendly crew dedicated to creating memorable moments. Situated at Lake Union Park in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood, the location offers convenient access to the waterfront, making it easy to meet up for this distinctive maritime outing.
Here's what people think of Emerald City Pirates
As of recent, Emerald City Pirates holds a 4.8-star rating based on 96 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Emerald City Pirates for its exceptional and engaging pirate-themed experiences. Positive reviews highlight the crew's friendliness and energy, the immersive activities such as water cannon battles and limbo contests, and the overall fun atmosphere that appeals to both children and adults alike. Numerous guests appreciate the interactive elements, especially in private charters where the crew goes out of their way to engage all participants regardless of age or language barriers. The scenic views of Seattle's iconic lakes and the ability to celebrate special occasions on board enhance guests’ enjoyment. On the other hand, a few negative comments mention the challenge of limited parking around South Lake Union Park and the necessity to arrive early due to boarding requirements; however, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall positive experience. In conclusion, Emerald City Pirates is widely recognized for delivering a spirited and immersive pirate adventure on Seattle’s waters, making it a highly rated attraction for families, groups, and adults seeking a fun and unique maritime outing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tinaki PapAig
What could be more magical than cruising Lake Union on a beautiful July day? Emerald City Pirates offers a fun and memorable way to experience Seattle from the water. The boat is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully set up for group outings. There's a great little bar on board for beverages, and a central area that's perfect for laying out snacks and mingling. The water cannons added a playful, interactive twist that everyone enjoyed. The crew was fantastic—and skilled at hosting groups to ensure a smooth and unique outing. Highly recommend this experience for anyone looking to celebrate, entertain guests, or just enjoy a unique day out in the city!
Katryna Eastwood
This is the best spot to bring kids in Seattle! The crew was kind, funny and kept the kids really engaged the whole time. I took my little sister and she can’t stop talking about how much fun she had. It was the perfect afternoon together! So thankful for the whole crew and the owner!
Julie Noggle
I've been a passenger on the pirate cruise numerous times and always leave with a smile on my face! The energetic & engaging crew, along with the bumpin' tunes make for an unforgettable experience. Bottoms up!
Carl Nyman
The Tiki Cruise these guys offer is the best! Inshore, super calm with nearby restaurants, parks, postcard views with a Jolly crew, vibing tunes and Tiki Bar! What else could you want?!
Terra Scott
This ship is the coolest! My whole family rented a whole boat for the Fourth of July, and it was so much fun! They dress up like pirates, they play some pirate songs, we even dressed up like pirates! The bartender and the guy driving the boat were awesome! I’m so happy I joined in this! One of the best Fourth of July‘s I’ve had because it was just so different! You get great views of Seattle, and the water! Fireworks were awesome!
How to reach Emerald City Pirates
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Why Emerald City Pirates may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Emerald City Pirates with your friends? Because it offers a unique, immersive experience that's far more than just a typical gathering spot. Imagine boarding a beautifully maintained pirate ship right in the heart of Seattle, setting sail on Lake Union with your favorite people, and instantly leaving the everyday behind. The mix of adventure, entertainment, and relaxation makes it perfect for reconnecting and creating lasting memories. Whether you are an enthusiast of imaginative play, a lover of scenic cruises, or just in search of a lively atmosphere with great company, Emerald City Pirates delivers all this with a high energy crew that engages everyone onboard. The vibrant pirate theme, complete with costumes, water cannons, limbo contests, and treasure hunts keeps both kids and adults entertained alike, ensuring that no one feels left out or bored. Add to this the stunning views of Seattle’s skyline and natural surroundings, and you have an unbeatable venue that transforms any meetup into a festive, daring voyage. With glowing reviews praising the friendly crew, fun activities, and smooth sailing atmosphere, Emerald City Pirates truly stands out as a premier destination for group outings.
What activities can you expect on Emerald City Pirates, and why is it great for groups? The experience onboard is crafted to entertain a broad range of interests and ages, making it ideal for family get-togethers, friend reunions, or corporate outings. First and foremost, the ship cruises Lake Union, providing breathtaking views and a refreshing breeze, which naturally encourages socializing and taking in the scenic environment. The ship itself, called the Queen Anne’s Revenge, is spacious yet cozy enough for groups to interact comfortably while still maintaining an intimate vibe. Throughout the voyage, guests can engage in playful activities like firing water cannons, which is particularly thrilling on warm days and perfect for engaging kids and adults alike. There is a treasure hunt where everyone can partake, boosting friendly competition and teamwork in a fun pirate-themed adventure. Limbo contests and pirate-themed music keep the energy high and the mood lighthearted. For those who prefer relaxation, there are ample seating areas to simply soak up the views while enjoying snacks and drinks available onboard. The staff goes out of their way to make everyone feel involved, whether that’s helping assign pirate names or encouraging guests to join in on the games, ensuring the entire group shares in the excitement together.
How does Emerald City Pirates cater to different group sizes and special events? Emerald City Pirates is notably flexible, accommodating a wide variety of group types from casual friend meetups to larger private charter events. The ship can host up to 48 guests comfortably, making it optimal for intimate celebrations as well as corporate team-building outings or family reunions. They offer private charters which provide exclusive use of the boat, allowing groups full creative control over their event, including the option to add catered food and drinks. This all-in-one approach simplifies planning and lets your group focus on enjoying the moment rather than logistical concerns. For corporate groups or special events, they even have a pre-designed Family Treasure Cruise performance and activities package specifically tailored to engage and entertain groups with a mix of theatrics and interactive fun. Moreover, the location is incredibly convenient—just minutes from Seattle’s business district—which means you can easily escape the city hustle without traveling far. The dedicated and enthusiastic crew take extra care to make each event personalized, contributing to why so many reviews highlight exceptional customer service and unforgettable times aboard the ship.
Why is the atmosphere aboard the Emerald City Pirates ideal for a group meetup? The entire cruise is built around social entertainment and interaction, making it perfect for groups eager to bond and share experiences. The pirate theme, with its colorful costumes and playful ambiance, creates a light-hearted setting that encourages laughter and camaraderie. The music onboard is upbeat and pirate-inspired, setting a festive tone that keeps spirits high. Activities such as mopping the deck to earn treasure add unique, quirky challenges that break the ice and promote teamwork. Because the boat is the only full-time pirate ship on the West Coast, the experience feels exclusive and special, giving groups a sense of embarking on a private adventure. Many reviewers mention how the crew's energy is infectious, helping to involve everyone equally and making guests feel like part of a merry pirate crew. Additionally, the size of the ship strikes a perfect balance—not too large to feel impersonal, yet spacious enough to allow private conversations and group mingling without crowding. These elements combined create an unforgettable environment where groups can relax, celebrate, and make memories together.
What makes Emerald City Pirates a safe and family-friendly venue? Safety and family-friendliness are clearly priorities for Emerald City Pirates, making it an excellent choice when bringing children along or organizing family-focused events. The boat is well maintained, clean, and equipped to handle all ages, which provides peace of mind for parents and organizers. The crew’s attentiveness to young guests is often highlighted in reviews; they handle energetic kids with enthusiasm and care, ensuring that everyone stays safe while having fun. The ship size and design also offer excellent visibility for adults to keep an eye on their children at all times. The moderation of activities like water cannon fights and limbo games is always under the vigilant watch of staff, providing a controlled environment for playful interaction. Moreover, the onboard store and bar offer a variety of snacks and beverages suitable for all ages, allowing families to customize their experience comfortably. The combination of safety, attentive service, and a lively but secure atmosphere gives families and groups confidence that their outing will be both enjoyable and worry-free.
How can Emerald City Pirates enhance corporate and special occasion events? For groups looking to elevate their gatherings beyond the usual venue, Emerald City Pirates offers a distinct and memorable setting that impresses clients, coworkers, or guests. The pirate ship’s uniqueness serves as a natural conversation starter and icebreaker, helping to foster connections and a relaxed social environment. The private charter option includes customizable catering and drink packages, freeing event planners from the hassle of managing multiple vendors. The themed activities, like treasure hunts and deck games, provide natural team-building moments that improve collaboration and morale in a fun, low-pressure way. Even the stunning sights of Seattle’s skyline and waterfront add an inspiring backdrop that uplifts the mood and experience. Hosting a corporate offsite, product launch, or special celebration here elevates the occasion into an adventure, making attendees feel valued and energized. This innovative venue not only encourages merriment but also enhances group cohesion and leaves a lasting impression well beyond the event itself.
Why is Emerald City Pirates consistently highly rated by visitors? The near-perfect 4.8-star rating from over 90 reviews speaks volumes about the quality of experience at Emerald City Pirates. Visitors frequently praise the welcoming and energetic crew who go above and beyond to engage with guests and personalize the adventure. The attention to detail on the ship—from cleanliness to pirate-themed decor—creates an authentic and enjoyable environment that transports guests into a different world. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the activities are fun and inclusive, appealing to all ages and interests, which is crucial for group dynamics. The combination of thrilling entertainment, beautiful views, and excellent customer service ensures that participants leave with positive memories and a desire to return. The fact that both families with young children and adult party groups find the experience fulfilling and enjoyable highlights the versatility and thoughtful design of the cruises. Ultimately, the consistency of glowing reviews reinforces Emerald City Pirates as a trusted and exceptional venue to rally friends, family, or colleagues for a lively, memorable outing.
In summary, Emerald City Pirates offers a vibrant, unique, and engaging setting perfect for any group meetup. From imaginative pirate adventures to breathtaking scenic cruises and dynamic activities, it ensures every guest is entertained and connected. Its flexible event options, commitment to safety, and outstanding guest service make it an ideal choice for families, friends, and corporate groups looking to create extraordinary experiences on the water. This hidden gem in Seattle is much more than a venue; it’s an adventure that transforms meetings into celebrations, making every gathering a voyage worth remembering.