Step into the world of pirates with Real Pirates Salem and discover the legendary Whydah Gally. This exclusive tour offers rare artifacts, insider stories, and a deep dive into maritime history that will leave you inspired and intrigued.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with no strenuous activity involved
Wildlife
History
Salem’s coastline was a hub of 18th-century piracy and merchant activity, making it a fitting location for pirate lore preservation.
Conservation
The site actively supports local marine ecosystem preservation, recycling artifacts, and respecting native maritime heritage.
Real Pirates
Step into the world of pirates with Real Pirates Salem and discover the legendary Whydah Gally. This exclusive tour offers rare artifacts, insider stories, and a deep dive into maritime history that will leave you inspired and intrigued.
Real Pirates is a museum and maritime exhibit located in Salem, Massachusetts, dedicated to the story of the Whydah Gally and the material culture of piracy. The museum centers on the Whydah Exhibit, which displays authenticated artifacts recovered from the Whydah shipwreck—the only verified pirate treasure ever found—and interprets the lives of crew and captains through archaeological context and primary-source research. Visitors encounter interactive displays, artifact cases, and live archaeological demonstrations that reveal how objects are identified, conserved, and interpreted by specialists.
The venue offers a range of experiences: General Admission to explore the Whydah Exhibit and related programming; a Directors Tour that provides intimate access to rare artifacts, insider narratives, and an audio tour narrated by Whydah discoverer Barry Clifford; and a Real Pirate Wedding package that stages ceremonies among displays for a distinctive waterfront celebration. Real Pirates partners with maritime archaeologists and curators to present evidence-based storytelling and to protect recovered material through museum-standard conservation practices.
Located in Salem, the museum situates the Whydah story within broader maritime history and local heritage, making it accessible to families, history enthusiasts, and researchers. Real Pirates emphasizes factual interpretation of the Whydah Gally wreck and invites visitors to engage directly with archaeology, artifacts, and documented narratives that illuminate 18th-century seafaring and piracy. Exhibit interpretation includes stories of figures such as Sam Bellamy and Maria Hallett, and the museum offers educational programming and guided experiences designed for adults and children to learn about maritime archaeology and 18th-century Atlantic networks and conservation practices.
Location
Salem, MA
Historic waterfront setting
Featured Shipwreck
Whydah Gally
Only authenticated pirate wreck
Tours Offered
3 Experiences
General, Directors, Wedding
Events & Weddings
Available
Private ceremonies at museum
Reserve General Admission, request the Directors Tour, or inquire about a Real Pirate Wedding—secure a memorable visit to the Whydah Exhibit today.
Wear comfortable shoes
You’ll be walking and standing for much of the tour, so choose footwear suited for all-day use.
Bring a flashlight
Some parts of the tour may be dimly lit; a small flashlight can help you see artifacts clearly.
Book in advance
Tours are popular and spaces are limited, so reserving ahead ensures your spot.
Prepare for weather variability
While most of the tour is indoor, some parts might be exposed; dress accordingly.
Comfortable walking shoes
Proper footwear makes distance walking and standing more comfortable during the tour.
Light jacket or layers
Ports and indoor spaces can vary in temperature, so layering ensures comfort.
Small flashlight
Helpful for dimly lit areas to better see artifacts and details.
Camera or smartphone
Capture images of artifacts and scenic views for memories or sharing.