A cruise aboard Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise in Clearwater Beach is a totally one-of-a-kind experience. The cruise is the business of a husband and wife team who created the attraction after sailing the Caribbean in the boat themselves. The appearance of the boat has changed, though: it is now decorated to look like an old-fashioned pirate ship, and is staffed with a gang of “wenches,” “captains,” and “pirates,” that provide entertainment throughout the 2-hour cruise. “Captain Memo,” the man behind it all, recently passed away, and really is now a bit of a legend.  

Ticket prices are on the higher end, but they include all-you-can-drink beer and wine (and champagne on Sunset Cruises), entertainment (treasure hunts and music), and the views of the water from aboard the ship. Though it’s recommended that you always confirm in advance, cruises are generally available at 10:00 am and 2:00pm Monday through Saturday, and at 2:00pm on Sunday, and there are sunset cruises daily (departure times vary, of course). Plan to spend about 2 hours on the boat and to eat before or after the cruise at a restaurant nearby.

Affordable parking permits are available for only $2 when you get to the dock, but you have to hold the parking meter with small change while you run to the ticket booth and grab one. Online reservations are recommended.