Their favorite.
Their birthday.

A pirate arrival sets the tone for the whole visit, so think about how your child likes to be welcomed. Some children love a dramatic entrance with a rolled-up map and a bold announcement, while others feel more comfortable with a quiet, friendly hello and a small role to play. Discuss these ideas with the team: the captain could greet the birthday child by name, ask them to check the crew list, or present a simple ship's badge as a keepsake. You might also ask whether the performer can adjust volume and pace, since a shy child may prefer a gentle approach.

For a child who loves being in charge, a first mate role is a natural fit. The captain can hand over a spyglass or a rope to coil, and let the birthday child decide which game the crew plays next. Ask which activities suit your child before the day, so the greeting feels personal rather than scripted.

A treasure hunt is a classic pirate idea that works in many spaces. Outdoors, the captain might lead the crew to search for a hidden chest along a path or across a lawn, with clues that the children solve together. Indoors, the same hunt can take place in a living room or party room using cards, hidden items and a simple map drawn on paper. Ask the team which settings they are comfortable working in and how they would adapt the hunt to the space you have.

If you plan an outdoor visit, check the weather and ground conditions the day before, and have a backup room in mind. Ask whether the captain prefers a slower, quieter game for smaller guests or a bolder search with more running for older children, and discuss how the group rhythm can shift between active and calm moments.

Pirate games often involve races, rope-pulling and friendly competition, so it helps to plan a rhythm that balances energy with rest. A good pattern might be a short welcome, a treasure hunt, a quieter story or song moment, and then a closing ceremony where the birthday child receives a captain's certificate. Discuss these ideas with the team so the flow suits your group. You can ask how the captain keeps everyone included, for example by giving every child a role on the crew rather than letting one or two dominate.

Comfort matters for children who may be overwhelmed by a crowd. Ask whether seating can be arranged near the edges of the group, whether a child can step aside to a quiet spot, and whether the captain can offer a gentle choice of games. Keep the visit flexible, so the birthday child's mood guides how long each activity runs.

Before booking, ask the team how they arrive, set up and leave, and what they need from the host. Confirm the space you plan to use, and check with your venue whether outside entertainment is allowed and whether any setup rules apply. Do not assume a venue permits performers unless you have been told so directly. A short planning call can clear up details like where the performer will change, how long the set-up takes, and whether there is a clear path from parking to the party area.

Prepare a simple list for the day: the birthday child's name, favourite pirate story or colour, any fears or sensory needs, and the names of any children who may need extra support. Share it with the team in advance so they can tailor the greeting and games. Keep the visit at one hour or longer, since that is the shortest bookable length, and plan the activities to fill the time comfortably.