Every January, Pirates Invade Tampa. Locals Call It Tradition, America Calls It One of the Most Unique Outdoor Celebrations. Here’s Everything You Need to Know about Gasparilla 2025
Last Updated on November 22, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
Every year during the month of January, a crew of 700 pirates aboard a 165-foot fully rigged ship sails the bay. Once they reach the X (Tampa Convention Center), they raise their flags and the pirates bring the party on land. With a attendance of over 300,000, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival has become one of the most popular attractions of Tampa, Florida, but to those that live in Tampa watching the Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla make landfall is tradition.
- When: Saturday, January 25
- Time: 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Where: Tampa, Florida
Find available boat rentals for Gasparilla Pirate Festival
Boats & day itinerary for #Gasparilla2025
Whether you’re visiting or a proud local continuing the tradition, a boat rental can give you a unique vantage point of Gasparilla. Find boat rentals for all groups types, from party boats to family-friendly boats.
- 9 AM: Meet Owner or Captain at dock and load up
- 10 AM: Launch boat and cruise the Hillsborough Bay
- 10:30 AM: Anchor near Davis Islands (best viewing spot for invasion)
- 11:30 AM – 1 PM : Watch Jose Gasparilla ship invasion
- 1 PM: Relocate boat to Bayshore Boulevard waterfront
- 2 PM – 5:30 PM: View Parade of Pirates along Bayshore Boulevard
- 6 PM: Begin packing up and head back to dock
2023 Axopar with Stereo
Not only will you be cruising in style aboard this sleek boat, this 25 ft Axopar boat comes with Bluetooth, Stereo, and a Bathroom making it just right for 6 mates to have a fun day out on the water.
View 2023 Axopar boat | Explore boats in Tampa, Florida
23 ft Sailfish Boat Includes Children’s Lifejacket
Not only is this 23 ft Sailfish boat suitable for children, but pets are also welcome aboard. This boat rental is Captained.
View 23 ft Sailfish boat | Explore boats in Tampa, Florida
75 ft Millenium Yacht with Jacuzzi & Over 20 Subwoofers
Go all out for Gasparilla and lock-in this 75 ft Millenium Yacht. Aboard this boat, up to 12 Guests can enjoy an array of amenities such as air conditioning, indoor lounge area, and its most notable feature, a state-of-the art sound system.
View 75 ft Millenium Yacht | Explore boats in Tampa, Florida
38 ft Axopar Mini Yacht with Grill
A 99% Owner response rate and 4.9 rating should you that JP is serious about making your day out on the water an unforgettable one. Aboard this 38 ft Axopar Yacht which has a grill, cooler, and WiFi, up to 13 friends can create a memorable Gasparilla celebration of their own.
View 38 ft Axopar Mini Yacht | Explore boats in Tampa, Florida
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