How to Become a Pirate

Rate: (2 Ratings)

Pirates are those great romanticized villains of the seas whose legends are filled with high adventure and terrible freedoms. Want to become a new modern pirate without actually committing any crimes? Here are a few steps to get you on your way.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Fencing equipment
New pirate fashion

Step1

Decide on a name. You can either use one of the many internet quizzes or think of one yourself. Names sometimes focus on a physical attribute or use a nasty adjective (e.g., dirty, rotten). Read up on some of your favorite pirates for inspiration. Have fun with it.

Step2

Learn the colloquial sayings. September 19th is Talk Like a Pirate Day, and basic pirate language can be found and referenced on the site. Feel free to do research beyond what they have listed, but this is a good place to start. Learn a new word everyday. Learn a song or two.

Step3

Take a fencing class. Sword play is a staple of any pirate's life, so branch out and learn the basics of fencing. Not only will you learn some combat skills, but it is also a great work-out.

Step4

Learn how to sail. Take a sailing class or go sailing with a friend. Learn the vocabulary of the ship parts, directions and movements of the ocean.

Step5

Get acquainted with the sea. Visit the ocean and spend some time getting to know the sights and smells.

Step6

Decide on a wardrobe, hair style and weapon of choice. Research fashions of pirates in the past as well as the pirates in the movies. Take inspiration from them and create your own look.

Step7

Show off your new skills! Visit a Renaissance Faire or one of several pirate festivals held around the year across the country. St. Petersburg, Florida, and Ojai, California, are two of many cities that offer festivals year round. Can't find one near you? Organize your fellow pirate-lovers and have your own festival!