Experience Tampa’s Gasparilla Brunch Cruise: Pirate Fest on the Water
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily seated experience with light walking for boarding.
Overview
Set sail on Tampa’s Gasparilla Brunch Cruise and experience the city’s iconic pirate festival from the water. Enjoy festive brunch, pirate costumes, and front-row views of the José Gasparilla flotilla’s grand invasion.
Gasparilla Brunch Cruise
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on Craft's Gasparilla brunch cruise for an unforgettable pirate-themed adventure! Dress in your finest pirate attire and enjoy a festive brunch as you sail to witness the legendary José Gasparilla ship's grand invasion. Relax with drinks and soak in the vibrant festivities before returning to shore for more pirate fun!
Set sail for Craft’s inaugural Gasparilla brunch cruise! Kick off your Gasparilla adventure on the water with a festive brunch aboard Craft! Come dressed in your best pirate attire and get ready to dive into the heart of the action. Departing from the Channelside dock, this spirited voyage will take you to the flotilla’s gathering point near the Harbour Island Lighthouse.
From there, you'll have a great view as the flotilla turns into the channel and heads toward downtown. Craft will sail ahead of the flotilla to secure a spot in the Convention Center basin, offering guests views of the legendary José Gasparilla pirate ship as it makes its grand invasion!
Afterward, Craft will remain in the Convention Center basin, where you can enjoy frosty beverages and soak in the pirate festivities from the comfort of the vessel. After the invasion, we’ll return to the Channelside dock, giving you plenty of time to continue your pirate day onshore!
Includes:
- 2-hour Cruise with 30-minute boarding prior to departure
- Great views of legendary Gasparilla Invasion
- 3-Course Brunch – Menu Coming Soon!
- Craft cocktails available for purchase from the Bow & Stern Bar
Reservations for special events cruises are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Adventure Tips
Dress for the occasion
Wear your best pirate outfit to join in the festive Gasparilla spirit and get the most out of the themed experience.
Arrive early to board
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding at Channelside dock.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Even on overcast days, reflecting water can increase sun exposure; protect yourself before heading out.
Stay hydrated
Though there’s a cash bar, bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the cruise.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelicans commonly seen flying low over the bay
- Bottlenose dolphins occasionally spotted offshore
History
The Gasparilla festival began in 1904, celebrating the legend of pirate José Gaspar and Tampa’s seafaring heritage.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain Tampa Bay’s water quality help preserve the health of marine life and ensure a clean experience for cruise guests.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Pirate costume or themed attire
Enhances your immersion in the Gasparilla festival spirit on board.
winter specific
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare off the water during daytime cruising.
all specific
Light jacket or windbreaker
Crisp bay breezes can get cool, especially on open waters in the winter.
winter specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the cruise with water readily available.
all specific