Set Sail with the Jersey Shore Pirates this Summer with New Jersey’s Original Pirate Adventure
Pirate lore has remained a source of intrigue since the Golden Age of piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries, piquing our curiosity with tales of plunder and adventure along the high seas. The coastal waters of the Jersey Shore saw their share of pirate activity during this heyday, including the likes of the infamous Blackbeard and Captain Kidd who are believed to have buried treasures along the New Jersey coastline. Reading about pirates and their escapades proves fascinating and educational for children, but what if they could seize the opportunity to live the life of a treasure-hunting pirate, even for just a few hours? Thanks to Rob “Captain Scurvy” and Jessica “Jezebel” Corring, owners of Jersey Shore Pirates, kids can experience authentic Pirate Adventures aboard the Sea Gypsy II, a friendly, US Coast Guard-certified pirate ship hailing locally from the Riverfront Marina in Brick.
After learning the ropes while working for Pirate Adventures in Annapolis, Maryland for several years, the Corrings returned home to New Jersey to open Jersey Shore Pirates’ Pirate Adventures. In 2009, they acquired their very own pirate ship, a vessel specifically designed for entertaining families and visitors through interactive Pirate Adventures. Decked out as an authentic pirate ship, complete with a 35-foot mast flying the traditional Jolly Roger pirate flag, a lookout deck, water cannons, and varnished wood trim, the Sea Gypsy II takes its pint-sized pirates for an hour and 15 minute sail on the calm waters of the Metedeconk River.
Before leaving port, Pirate Adventures introduces the kids to pirate jargon and transforms them into pirates with face painting and tattoos. Armed with plastic play swords and loot bags, the buccaneers then head off in search of a hidden treasure. Incorporating literacy, problem-solving, map reading, and nautical terminology, Pirate Adventures is both entertaining and educational, making it the perfect choice for a child’s birthday party, as well as the ideal outing for field trips and special events for camps, scouts, and other community groups. Prior to setting sail, the young pirates become acquainted with the rules of the ship to ensure safety; then, the Sea Gypsy II begins its journey. On board, the scallywags delight in stumbling upon a secret message in a bottle and battling their nemesis, Pirate Pete, with water cannons. From the lookout deck, mates can glimpse the “high seas” and appreciate the feel of a cool breeze blowing across their smiling faces. Finally, the pirates’ efforts are rewarded as they discover an undersea treasure, which they must heave-ho into the ship in order to divvy up the booty.
Rather than passively sitting and listening to pirate stories, Pirate Adventures gives guests a hands-on learning experience through interaction and direct participation. Pirate Adventures was created almost 20 years ago by a preschool teacher and has evolved into the premier pirate experience in the country. The Corrings have been involved with Pirate Adventures for 10 seasons. “For us, Pirate Adventures is a passion, and we believe that is what sets us apart from the competition,” explains Rob Corring. “We pay attention to every detail. The Sea Gypsy II is an actual pirate ship designed for kids, not just a regular boat with a flag or two used for decoration. We make sure our pirates are safe and entertained. The best part is that we have as much fun as they do!” Late April through October, the Sea Gypsy II sails seven times a day. Pirate Adventures also offers sunset cruises during the months of July and August. Guests are welcome to make reservations for individuals or small groups to sail, as well as to schedule private parties for larger groups.
To learn more about the Jersey Shore Pirates Pirate Adventures by visiting their website, www.jerseyshorepirates.com. There, visitors can find answers to frequently asked questions, adventure pictures, package pricing, customer reviews, snippets about pirate history, special event scheduling, crew and vessel information, and helpful hints about the local area. Or, give Pirate Adventures a call at 732-899-6100 to make reservations or schedule a party sure to bring out the inner pirate in your crew!
-Article written by Christa Riddle, owner of All About Writing, www.allaboutwritingconsulting.com
Posted by Ocean County News
on Jun 22 2012. Filed under Community, Jersey Shore, News.
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