Events at Elevate Pirate Ship, Sydney

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Elevate Presents 'Pirates'

20 March 2021 Saturday / 04:45 PM

Elevate Pirate Ship, Sydney

About Elevate Pirate Ship

Elevate Pirate Ship isn’t a traditional bricks-and-mortar club – it’s a floating *party venue* on Sydney Harbour. Hosted on historic tall ships (notably the 110-foot 1922-built Southern Swan or the 130-foot 1949-built Soren Larsen), it offers immersive pirate-themed events. Organised by local promoter Elevate, the experience blends live music and DJ sets with interactive, costumed performance. Sydney Harbour Tall Ships describe it as “a swashbuckling adventure of your life,” with crew-led theatrics, sail hoisting and treasure hunts on deck (sydneytallships.com.au) (www.tripadvisor.com.au). The ships themselves have storied pasts (Southern Swan even participated in Australia’s Bicentennial First Fleet re-enactment (sydneytallships.com.au)) and offer a majestic backdrop of masts and sails against the harbour skyline. Each voyage is limited to roughly 80–95 guests (sydneytallships.com.au) (smartcruisersydney.com.au), giving a lively but intimate vibe. Signature features include maritime heritage architecture (solid oak hulls, towering masts and rigging), ocean-dark wood interiors and the smell of salt air – all of which make it a memorable part of Sydney’s nightlife. These events have quickly become a unique part of Sydney’s scene, combining yachting history with modern club energy.

Events and Programming

The Pirate Ship hosts themed party nights rather than regular concerts. Events are often advertised as “Elevate Presents: Pirates,” encouraging costumes (even offering prizes for the best-dressed pirate) (sydneytallships.com.au). Partygoers can expect DJs and live music tailored to the vibe – from electronic house and techno to high-energy dance tracks – alongside theatrical elements. Sydney Harbour Tall Ships’ pirate cruise is *interactive*: guests help “hoist the jolly roger, set sail, find the gold, fire the cannons,” and shape the show (sydneytallships.com.au). In practice, this means costumed crew lead a fun narrative (sea shanties may break out, and everyone can join in the treasure hunt). Though intended for adults (18+, as noted on ticketing pages (www.ticketfairy.com)), these events borrow heavily from the family-style pirate cruises (which received rave reviews like “brilliant fun” for all ages (www.tripadvisor.com.au)). Programming is sporadic – typically a few major parties per year – often on summer weekends or special occasions (Halloween deck parties and New Year’s Eve sails are not uncommon on Sydney Harbour). A notable past event was “Elevate Presents ‘Pirates’” on 20–21 March 2021 (www.ticketfairy.com), which filled the weathered decks with costumed dancers and DJ sets. In general, expect anything from full-scale pirate productions to DJ-driven club nights, all with a harbour view and sea breeze. You won’t find a horror movie screening or a stand-up comedy set – it’s purely a dance/party format with maritime flair.

Tickets and Booking

There is no box office on site – tickets must be bought in advance online through official channels or authorised ticketing partners. The event promoter typically announces show dates weeks or months ahead, so watch for announcements on the ticketing platform or social media. Once tickets go on sale, popular shows sell out quickly. Prices vary by event and seating package, but tend to range from moderate (around the cost of a standard concert ticket) up to premium (including VIP packages or open-bar options). For example, comparable tall-ship cruises often charge on the order of $60–$100 per person, depending on inclusions. Check the event listing carefully: all Pirate Ship events are strictly 18+. Expect to show valid ID at the door. Door sales or last-minute tickets are rare; planners recommend booking early or joining a waiting list. Refunds and exchanges are normally not offered (see Policies below), so only buy through the authorised outlet. In short, plan ahead: buy tickets online as soon as they’re announced, and arrive with your print-at-home or mobile ticket ready.

Seating and Layout

Unlike a theater, there are no assigned seats on board – it’s more like a floating standing-room party. According to Sydney Tall Ships, there is “no allocated seating” and guests are welcome to roam freely on deck (sydneytallships.com.au). On a Pirate Ship event, the main deck is open-air, with scattered bar-height tables (and sometimes a small pre-arranged seating area at the stern or below decks). You won’t find plush seats or fixed benches – most people stand, dance or perch on railings. Capacity is typically capped around 80, so it never feels overcrowded, but it’s smart to stake out a spot early. For harbour views and photo ops, many guests gather near the bowsprit or on the upper deck around sunset. Because the ship itself has tall masts and rigging, be mindful of sightlines – if a performance or light show is set up, the middle of the deck often has the best visibility. The lower deck provides a small sheltered lounge (with bar and bathroom), useful for breaks or for quieter convo away from the crowd. Note that the floor can move with waves, so avoid the edges if you’re unsteady. In general, any spot with a railing is fair game – just be courteous to others who may want a turn by the rail for photos or views.

Getting There and Parking

Elevate Pirate Ship sails from King Street Wharf in Darling Harbour, Sydney. (In practice, this means the boarding point is near the “King Street Wharf” complex by Darling Harbour.) The closest address is roughly **1 Shelley Street, Sydney (King St Wharf)**, which leads onto the pier where the ship loads. If you drive, the most convenient parking is the Secure Parking lot at **1 Shelley Street** (next to the wharf) (kingstreetwharf.com). This car park is open 24/7 (entrance via Shelley St), with standard rates around $30 for the first hour, $60 for two hours, and generally up to $90/day on weekdays (kingstreetwharf.com). Weekend rates are comparable or slightly higher. Other nearby parking options are the 201 Kent Street (Wilson Parking, about a 7-minute walk) and Darling Harbour’s public car parks. Public transit to King Street Wharf is straightforward. **Ferries** operate from Circular Quay to Barangaroo Wharf just south of King Street Wharf – disembark at Barangaroo and it’s only a few minutes’ walk southwest along the water (www.darlingharbour.com). Alternatively, **light rail (tram)** lines L1/L2 run along Market Street and then across Darling Harbour. Alight at the **Convention** or **Exhibition** stops (near Darling Harbour Convention Centre) or even **Pyrmont Bay** (for the Maritime Museum), then walk toward Darling Wharf. Many **city buses** also terminate around Pitt/Market Streets; a short walk down Market Street leads you into Darling Harbour. The nearest train stations are Town Hall and Wynyard (about 1 km away on foot, roughly 10–15 mins) – from either, you’d walk through the city towards Cockle Bay Bridge into Darling Harbour. If using rideshare or taxi, drop off at King Street Wharf (usually via Shelley or Charles Street). For cyclists, public bike racks line the wharves, but note the steep ramp from street level.

Inside the Venue

On entry, you’ll exchange your ticket for a wristband or sticker and may encounter a brief security check. Attendees often show ID and have bags scanned (security is brisk but not intrusive). Staff and hired bartenders typically run the ship like a nightclub. The atmosphere inside is dark and theatrical – dim ambient lighting (ropelights on deck, lanterns on masts, strobe or lasers during hot sets) with custom pirate decor (sails, treasure chests, flags). Most event lighting focuses on the dance areas, while the rest of the deck has a warm nautical glow. The smell of wood timbers and ocean salt is pervasive, mixed with boat-food aromas. Although this is essentially a nightclub on water, there are full facilities: small restroom cabins are located below deck, and crew members keep everything swabbed and serviceable. A bar usually operates near the stern (often the lower deck lounge) – expect classic cocktails, beer, wine and no-frills snacks if available. Importantly, you cannot bring outside food or drink: Sydney Tall Ships’ rules make a point that there is “strictly no BYO” (no bringing your own alcohol or large outside snacks) (sydneytallships.com.au). All alcohol and food must be purchased on board, in accordance with responsible service laws (sydneytallships.com.au). Coat check and lockers are not provided, so carry minimal personal items – a small purse or pouch is fine. There is no public Wi-Fi, though mobile signal is generally okay within the harbour; it’s wise to charge your phone beforehand. The ship’s crew will occasionally float up announcements (played over speakers) to keep the party going and inform of any schedule. While the event is lively, the heritage of the ship provides a majestic setting that sets it apart from a land-based club.

Nearby Amenities

The King Street Wharf hub sits at the edge of Darling Harbour, so there’s no shortage of nearby eateries and bars for pre- or post-show dining. In fact, Darling Harbour boasts well over 150 cafés, restaurants and pubs within easy walking distance (www.darlingharbour.com). For a quick bite before sailing, pop into the harbourside food court or one of the dockside bistros (e.g. Rocker Oyster Bar, Azul). For a sit-down meal, options range from modern Italian at *Fratelli Paradiso* to upscale steak at *Hurricane’s Grill*, and from Asian fusion at *Flying Fish* to casual pizzeria. Darling Harbour’s famous attractions (SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, the IMAX cinema) are along the same stretch, so you might arrive a few hours early to explore. If spending the night in town, hotels like the Novotel, Mercure or even boutique stays in Pyrmont are within a 10–15 minute walk. After the show, late-night transport is plentiful around the harbour – buses still run through the early morning, and ride-share pickup zones are common near the wharf. The area remains lively after dark, so you’ll have plenty of options for a nightcap dockside.

What Makes This Venue Special

What sets Elevate Pirate Ship apart is its sheer originality. Few places let you dance under a starry sky with ship rigging overhead and Sydney’s Opera House glittering on the horizon. The combination of *real* tall ships and nightclub vibes is rare. The vessels themselves contribute hugely: the Southern Swan is affectionately called “the graceful pirate ship” and has decades of history – originally a Danish schooner from 1922 that transported cargoes and later served in Canadian naval training (sydneytallships.com.au). Soren Larsen has film-credited fame (it starred in “Shackleton” and “French Lieutenant’s Woman”) and even led a reenactment of the First Fleet (sydneytallships.com.au) (sydneytallships.com.au). Guests often remark how it feels epic to celebrate on such a storied deck. The immersive pirate theme – with costumed crews and on-board theatrics – turns a simple night out into an adventure. Weaving together Sydney’s maritime heritage and club culture makes it culturally significant: it re-uses classic sailing craft for modern entertainment, drawing locals and visitors alike. Legendary scenes can emerge (imagine a DJ set as fireworks go off over Sydney Harbour or a surprise cannon blast from the captain, oscilating with reggae rhythms) – moments that aren’t found in any land venue. In short, both artists and audiences love it because it’s unlike anywhere else: a “nightclub under the sails” with panoramic harbour views that only Sydney can provide (www.tripadvisor.com.au), plus the thrill of costumed guests playing a role. This blending of old-world ship architecture with new-world party technology (e.g. professional lighting rigs lasering through the foggy night sky, and a powerful sound system anchored right on deck) creates an unforgettable environment.

Visitor Tips and Information

Plan to arrive *early*. Boarding often starts 30–60 minutes before sailing, and the gangway closes promptly at departure time. Bring ID (it’s 18+ and enforced) and wear sensible shoes – stilettos or sharp heels are not permitted by policy (sydneytallships.com.au) (the crew will kindly remind you). Dressing up in pirate attire won’t hurt either – past events even blessed the best costume with prizes (sydneytallships.com.au). Because the ship can rock, hold onto rails when moving and keep your phone/camera straps secure. Note that there is **no wheelchair access** – the tall ships have steep stairs and narrow passages (sydneytallships.com.au). If you have mobility issues, consider whether the boat fits your needs. There is a small chance of seasickness on any boat, but Sydney Harbour is very calm and the tall ship design is stable – reports say it’s “very stable” and bouts of nausea are rare (sydneytallships.com.au). Keep an eye on the weather: the event sails rain or shine (the decks are mostly sheltered)，so bring a light jacket – tickets are non-refundable for weather (sydneytallships.com.au). High winds or storms are unlikely in harbour, but dress in layers if an evening breeze is forecast. Onboard, follow any crew directions for safety (they’re trained in ship operations and crowd-control). Most importantly, don’t forget your phone charger – you’ll want to capture the sunset over the Opera House and those wild pirate shenanigans!

How do I buy tickets for Elevate Pirate Ship events?

Tickets for Elevate Pirate Ship are sold online through the event promoter or authorised ticket outlets. There is no on-site box office – you must purchase in advance. Watch the official event announcement and grab tickets as soon as they go on sale, since popular shows often sell out quickly. Entry is by digital or print ticket and valid photo ID (18+ policy).

Where does the pirate ship depart from, and is there parking?

The ship boards at King Street Wharf in Darling Harbour (roughly 1 Shelley Street, Sydney). The closest car park is the Secure Parking lot at 1 Shelley St, a short walk from the pier (kingstreetwharf.com). Standard rates are about $30 for the first hour, $60 for up to two hours, with a weekday daily max around $90 (kingstreetwharf.com). Other nearby lots (e.g. Wilson Parking on Kent Street) are also convenient. Street parking is very limited.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, no. The tall ships have narrow gangways and steep stairs, and Sydney Tall Ships specifically notes these vessels are “not suitable for wheelchair access” (sydneytallships.com.au). There are no ramps or elevator access on board. Guests should be able to climb steps to participate. If you have limited mobility, contact the promoter in advance – other accessible cruises on Sydney Harbour may be recommended.

What is the dress code and bag policy?

Pirate-themed costume is encouraged (it’s part of the fun!), but not mandatory. Many guests wear ornamental hats, bandanas or eye patches. However, practical shoes are a must – sharp or high heels are not allowed for safety (sydneytallships.com.au). Comfortable clothing and a light jacket (for evening chill) are recommended. Bags are scrutinised for safety (no large backpacks or prohibited items); just bring minimal essentials (wallet, phone). Note that all guests must pass through a standard venue security check.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No. Sydney Tall Ships events have a strict no outside food or BYO alcohol policy (sydneytallships.com.au). All food and beverages (booze, soft drinks, snacks) must be purchased onboard. This means you can enjoy the ship’s bar and any catering they provide. If you need a meal, consider dining nearby beforehand – there are plenty of restaurants steps from the wharf (www.darlingharbour.com).

Can I smoke on the pirate ship?

No. Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vaping) is strictly prohibited anywhere on deck (sydneytallships.com.au). This ensures safety on a confined metal vessel. If you must smoke, you’ll need to do so after returning to the dock or in designated smoking areas outside the wharf entrance (if any). Remember to dispose of any cigarette butts only ashtrays on shore – do not discard them overboard.

What if it rains or the weather is bad?

Elevate Pirate Ship sails rain or shine. Tall Ships are covered and built to handle rougher harbour conditions, so the event will proceed unless safety concerns arise. You should plan for bad weather (bring a poncho or waterproof layer) because tickets are not refundable due to rain (sydneytallships.com.au). In practice, normal showers rarely stop Sydney Harbour cruise events.

Are children allowed on board?

No. Elevate Pirate Ship parties are strictly 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com). Valid ID (such as a driver’s licence or passport) is required for entry. These events are adult-only and do not admit minors under any circumstances – they’re intended as wild nightlife parties rather than family outings.

How stable is the ship? Will I get seasick?

The tall ships used by Sydney Harbour Tall Ships are very stable in harbour waters. Their dimensions and ballast minimise rocking: as one frequent cruiser noted, it is “very rare” for passengers to feel seasick (sydneytallships.com.au). The Pirate Ship events stay in relatively calm sheltered waters (no open ocean), so most people feel secure. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions (ginger tablet or stable spot on deck), but generally these cruises have few issues with queasy guests.

Are there restrooms on the ship?

Yes. The ship has onboard toilet facilities (usually below deck). They are basic (think boat heads) but functional. Crew maintain them throughout the voyage. Plan ahead – visit them early because lines can form during peak times. Drink water in moderation so as not to overshoot late-night restroom runs in the crowd.

Is there food or drink service available on board?

Yes. Elevate Pirate Ship events typically have a bar area where you can buy alcoholic drinks, beer, cocktails and soft beverages. Some events may also offer light snacks or a buffet element. Remember, you cannot bring your own – the ship operates its own licensed bar in compliance with RSA laws (sydneytallships.com.au). Prices are usually similar to city venues. If you want a full meal, consider dining before boarding.

Can I purchase souvenirs or merchandise on the Pirate Ship?

Items for sale are typically limited to drinks, throwaway supplies (such as glow sticks or pirate-themed wearables), and occasionally a photo booth. Sydney Tall Ships does offer gift certificates online, but at the event itself there is usually no souvenir shop or clothing booth. If you want themed gear, it’s best to buy costumes or accessories ahead of time.

Where is the best place to stand on board for harbour views?

For sweeping harbour vistas, head to the bow (front) or the upper deck if one is accessible. Many guests like to gather near the bowsprit or starboard rail to photograph the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The stern can offer good views of Darling Harbour’s lights. Keep moving, as the ship’s rotation keeps views changing. Just be mindful of busy gangways when choosing a spot.

Are cameras and phones allowed?

Yes! Guests frequently take photos and videos throughout the cruise. The operators expect people to capture the experience. There are no official night photography restrictions (though flash may be discouraged during performances). Be aware that people are dancing around, so watch your footing. Also consider wearing a secure strap or pouch – the boat’s movement makes it easy to drop a phone overboard.

What should I bring with me?

Bring personal essentials: ID (mandatory), a small wallet or phone, and perhaps a camera. A light jacket or shawl is wise for sea breezes. Since there’s no coat check, keep belongings minimal. Also, ear plugs can be handy if the music is very loud for sensitive ears. Comfortable shoes are key – non-slip is best. Leave valuables behind; the staff cannot store large items for you. Finally, plenty of energy – you’ll likely be dancing on a swaying deck all night!