Jose Gasparilla II
Tampa's signature annual event, a large boat parade and festival centered around the impressive Jose Gasparilla II pirate ship.

šŸ“œ The Jose Gasparilla II is a 137-foot, three-masted schooner, the centerpiece of Tampa's annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival.
šŸ” This flat-bottom steel barge, built in 1954, leads the country's largest boat parade, celebrating a legendary, though fictional, Spanish pirate.

Why Go

šŸš¢ See the impressive 137-foot schooner up close
šŸŽ‰ Witness its role in a massive pirate invasion and parade
šŸ“ø Great photo opportunity with a unique pirate ship

Why Avoid

āš ļø Expect very large crowds and congestion during the festival.

Tips

šŸ“ The boat is often docked at Tarpon Weigh Station on Bayshore Boulevard.
šŸ—“ļø The ship leads the main festival on the last Saturday of January.
Consider visiting outside of festival times for a quieter experience.

Cost

šŸ’° Free community event, reserved seating available for purchase.

Hours

šŸ•’ Annual event, main festivities typically last Saturday of January.

Last updated 28 days ago

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