Ahoy Matey! Get ready for a Wisconsin pirate adventure. Pirate’s Hideaway and Tiki Bar in Eagle River Wisconsin, is the home port of this fantastic pirate ship. The lively captain, sometimes accompanied by his daughter, takes patrons out daily for a fun and beautiful pirate adventure. This experience is great for all ages. For younger kids, go on the earlier cruises and pay extra for the pirate garb bag. For adults groups, consider the sunset cruise and buy your beverage of choice from the Tiki Bar to enjoy on the water.
Logistical Details of the Pirate Cruise
The pirate cruise is just over an hour. Remember it can be a little colder on the water so dress appropriately. I recommend hitting the john before boarding but don’t worry, there is a privy on board. Lemonade and pirate’s booty popcorn are included and will be served on the cruise. Pirates are welcome to grab a drink, alcoholic or otherwise, at the Tiki bar before boarding. The boat fits 30 people when fully loaded and there are chairs available for everyone. There is a spiral staircase leading to the upper deck. Small children may need close supervision while navigating those stairs.
Pirate’s Hideaway in Wisconsin
Be sure to plan some time to check out the Pirate’s Hideaway Tiki Bar. They serve food, I recommend the stone-fired pizza! Or if you just need a treat, head above the bar to get ice cream. They serve Wisconsin-made Cedar Crest Ice Cream. The Hideaway also has a full bar that is dog-friendly.
Pirate’s Hideaway has fun decor, including the full bow of a boat, and plenty of pirate statues. This offers great picture opportunities. There is lots of outdoor seating, a lake-view patio, and limited indoor seating. They have corn hole, Jenga, and other yard games as well.
There is a gift store with plenty of pirate paraphernalia and Eagle River souvenirs.
Tips for Kids
Get the pirate grab bag. It’s some extra money. I almost didn’t buy it, but having the accessories to dress the part lets the kids embrace the pirate experience. If you can, try to dress the part in your own pirate costumes or be cognizant of wearing a good base for pirate wear. Think black, red, and white outfits. Black and white strips or cloths with skeletons also work well. Wear khakis and a white shirt, tie a piece of red fabric around your waist, and add the pirate bag, and you will absolutely look the part! For more inspiration on DIY pirate costumes, check out Mommywise’s article. Want a quick, easy, and comfortable outfit? Try this pirate t-shirt.
If the captain’s daughter is on board, ask her for a pirate tattoo! This is for all ages! Be sure to chat with the captain; he has been known to let the kids take the wheel during certain parts of the ride which was a highlight for my kids.
Nearby Activities
If you are looking for more time on the water, check out Wildwood Outdoor Adventure for paddling or tubing. Try the Eagle River City Beach if you are looking for a free place to take a swim.
For an indoor kids activity, try the Northwoods Children’s Museum. For good family fun try Eagle Falls Adventure Golf & Laser Tag. Another option is Kartway go-karts. They offer several different tracks as well as bumper boats, bounce houses, and more. For a more calm outdoor experience, go to Rocking W Stables for trail rides. Try checking out the Eagle River Historical Museum for some fun facts.
Take a drive to Bond Falls. This spectacular 100-foot wide, 50-foot high falls is about 40 minutes north. It has an accessible hike to the base of the falls and many opportunities to appreciate the beauty of upper Michigan.
Thirty minutes west of Eagle River is Minocqua, which has plenty of small-town shopping and a cute downtown. They also have Wildwood Zoo, which is fun for animal lovers of all ages. Check out a Lumberjack show and be prepared to be amazed at these athletes skill and speed.
More Wisconsin Pirate Opportunities
Can’t get enough pirates? Check out these other pirate-themed options in Wisconsin. You can find pirate-themed mini golf in Rhinelander at Pirate Falls, Sister Bay at Pirate’s Cove, and Wisconsin Dells at Pirate’s Cove. There is a pirate-themed playground just northeast of Green Bay called Brown County WI Bay Shore Park.
Do you know of any other cool pirate activities in Wisconsin? Comment below.