Discover the Pirate Past of St. Augustine for $24.99

The St. Augustine Pirates and Privateers Walking Tour offers a lively glimpse into the city’s notorious pirate history. Priced at $24.99 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, this tour is ideal for those interested in pirate lore and local history alike. Starting in the evening at 7:00 pm, the tour departs from 9 King St, making it accessible and easy to find.

This tour is designed for a group of up to 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. It features a knowledgeable guide who shares engaging stories as you explore key historic sites, such as the Castillo de San Marcos and the Sea Wall. While it’s mostly a walking tour with mobile tickets, it involves some standing and walking, making it suitable for most participants with good mobility.

Key Points

Affordable price at $24.99, offering great value for a historical walking experience
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes in duration, perfect for an evening activity
Multiple stops that highlight pirate and native history, including the Castillo de San Marcos and No Name Bar
Guides provide entertaining stories about pirates, privateers, and local legends
Tour departs from 9 King St and ends close to the starting point at Cuna St
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior, allowing flexible planning

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Starting Point at 9 King St for an Evening Pirate Adventure

The tour begins at 9 King St at 7:00 pm, where travelers meet to pick up tour merchandise, umbrellas, ponchos, and refreshments. This initial visit to the shop, Ghost City Tours of St. Augustine, takes about 10 minutes and is free of charge. From there, the guide leads you on a walk through the historic streets, with plenty of opportunities to learn about pirate lore and the city’s colonial past.

The starting location is conveniently near public transportation and is designed to accommodate most travelers seeking a flexible evening activity. The mobile ticket system streamlines entry, allowing you to join the tour without fuss.

Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos and Native American Heritage

One of the key stops is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, where the guide discusses the fortress’s storied past. While admission to the monument isn’t included, the guide offers insights into the Timucuan tribe of Native Americans and details about a famous Spanish sea captain linked to St. Augustine’s history.

This stop lasts about 15 minutes and provides captivating stories about the fort’s role in defending the city from pirates and foreign powers. Its sturdy walls still stand strong today, making it a visually impressive highlight of the tour.

The Ponce de Leon Statue and Fountain of Youth Legend

Another memorable stop is 1 Anderson Cir, home to the statue of Ponce de Leon. Here, the guide narrates the explorer’s legendary quest for the Fountain of Youth and his time in old St. Augustine. This stop also lasts 15 minutes and offers a scenic view, perfect for photo opportunities.

It’s a chance to connect local legend with historic figures, adding a layer of storytelling to the tour that visitors find both fun and educational.

Insights at the Governor’s House and Native American Tribes

Guests visit the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum next, where they learn about the Yamasee Native American tribe and the significant role of St. Augustine as the southernmost stop on the Underground Railroad. The guide also shares the story of a once enslaved pirate who rose to prominence in the city.

This stop provides 15 minutes of cultural and historical context, deepening the understanding of the complex history of the area. The location is not included in the admission fee, but the stories told here enrich the overall pirate experience.

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The Sea Wall and Pirate Warring History

A visit to the St. Augustine Sea Wall covers the warring Spanish and British pirates and privateers. The guide recounts the fierce battles and strategies that took place along the harbor, emphasizing the importance of ships coming into the port. This stop also lasts 15 minutes and is free to visit.

Guests get a vivid picture of the maritime conflicts that shaped the city’s pirate reputation, with the tour highlighting the strategic importance of St. Augustine’s harbor.

The Old Pirate Hangout at No Name Bar

The tour’s intrigue peaks at No Name Bar, a site known for its pirate haunt and a nefarious pirate with an enigmatic “no name.” This stop provides 15 minutes of storytelling about the nightlife and secret dealings of pirates. The bar itself is no longer a functioning pub, but its history as a pirate den remains fascinating.

This stop is not included in the admission, but its tales of clandestine pirate activities add a fun and slightly mischievous dimension to the tour.

The Guide’s Style and Knowledge

Throughout the tour, the guide is praised for their entertaining storytelling and depth of knowledge. They keep the pace lively, making complex pirate stories accessible and engaging. The tour is paced well, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the sites and hear the stories, without feeling rushed.

The group size of no more than 25 people ensures the guide can interact closely, enhancing the experience with personalized attention.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes a mobile ticket, allowing for easy entry and flexibility. Travelers should note that most can participate, and service animals are permitted. The tour runs rain or shine, with full refunds available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Since the tour ends less than a block from the start point, it’s convenient for continuing your exploration of St. Augustine afterward. The timing makes it perfect for a summer evening or a cool night adventure.

Final Thoughts on the St. Augustine Pirates Tour

This walking tour offers a fun, educational journey through some of the most iconic pirate-related sites in St. Augustine. For $24.99, participants receive a blend of history, legends, and local lore, all delivered by a knowledgeable guide. The stops at castle walls, Native American sites, and pirate taverns provide a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s notorious past.

While some visits require separate admission fees, the overall experience remains engaging and worth the price, especially for those keen on pirate stories and early American history. The tour’s evening timing adds a layer of atmosphere, making it a memorable part of any St. Augustine visit.

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St. Augustine Pirates and Privateers Walking Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s family-friendly, with engaging stories suitable for all ages.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide and walking through various historic sites. Merchandise and refreshments are available at the shop before the start.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, some stops such as Castillo de San Marcos and Governor’s House require separate admission fees not included in the tour price.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What is the start time?
The tour departs at 7:00 pm.

Where does the tour end?
It ends at White Lion, 20 Cuna St #3604, just a short walk from the start point.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Most participants with good mobility can join, but the tour involves walking and standing.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historical landmarks and pirate lore, delivered with entertaining guides, makes it a lively and educational experience for those interested in the pirate past of St. Augustine.