CRUISE CAPITAL
Florida offers many unique cruises — from pirate voyages to tiki bars on water
There’s no denying Florida is a cruise destination. Most of the world’s largest cruise lines offer multiple-day or weeklong excursions that depart from the Sunshine State. Florida is also home to the cruise capital of the world: PortMiami.
But for those who can’t commit to an extended amount of time at sea, there are also shorter, more unique offerings throughout the state. From swashbuckling adventures to educational, naturebased tours, here are a few options.
Pirate cruises
Don your eye patch and set sail on a high seas adventure with several pirate cruises that last up to two hours.
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures instructs its crew how to talk and battle like a pirate — water cannons included. Starting at $28; 801 Seabreeze Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale; 954-530-8302;
bluefootpirates.com
Buccaneer Pirate Cruise takes travelers on a high seas journey, complete with pirate training, sword fighting, water gun battles, a treasure hunt and authentic cannon fire. $39.99; 100 Harbor Blvd. in Destin; 850-269-0896; buccaneerpiratecruise.com
Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise features pirate antics, a treasure hunt, face painting, water games, stories and more as all aboard enjoy scenic views and search for dolphins. $11-$37 for daytime cruises and $11-$40 for
sunset cruises; 25 Causeway Blvd. in Clearwater Beach; 727-446-2587; captainmemo.com
Pirate Adventures of Cortez invites guests to set sail on a cruise featuring mermaid and pirate face paint and costumes for kids, a treasure hunt and more. $30; 4110 127th St. W. in Cortez; 941-226-5640; pirateadventuresofcortez.com
Salty Sam’s Pirate Cruises offers a comedy adventure complete with treasure chests, pirate games, dancing and more. There’s also an adults-only version, complete with dancing and alcoholic beverages. Starting at $25-$34.95; 2500 Main St. in Fort Myers Beach; 239-765-7272; floridapiratecruise.com
Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise takes guests back in time to the age of pirates. Enjoy dolphin sightings, music, pirate activities, refreshments and more. $13-$27; 5325 N. Lagoon Drive in Panama City; 850-234-7400; piratecruise.net
Casino cruises
Set sail during the day or evening aboard a casino cruise to place bets at sea.
Victory Casino Cruises features a