Pirates Tale Tour
Discover the legendary pirates Jean and Pierre Lafitte who sailed the Gulf of Mexico between 1810 and 1823.
Departs
Highlights
- Jean Lafitte's House
- Maison Rouge
- The Elissa Ship
- Pirates Museum
About the Pirates Tale Tour
Once upon a time, Galveston was the home of Jean and Pierre Lafitte—among the most notorious pirates to sail the Gulf of Mexico between 1810 and 1823.
Their base operated from Barataria Bay, Louisiana. They were smugglers who privateered under the protection of Cartagena (modern‑day Colombia).
From New Orleans to Galveston
During the War of 1812, Jean Lafitte and his skilled Baratarian fleet helped General Andrew Jackson defeat the British at the Battle of New Orleans.
After the war, Lafitte moved his fleet to Galveston Island, establishing the largest pirate colony in the Gulf—Campeche.
What You Will See
We glide by Maison Rouge (Jean Lafitte’s house site), visit The Elissa—the official Tall Ship of Texas—and explore The Strand, once tied to Gulf trade and darker chapters of history.
Hear tales of buried treasure at Three Trees and see remnants of Lafitte’s days on the island.
Tour Photos
See real guests enjoying this tour
Roadmap
Uncover pirate strongholds and maritime legends that defined the Gulf coast.
Start
Maison Rouge Site
Jean Lafitte's House (Site)
Stories and speculation around the Lafitte legacy.
Maison Rouge Ruins
Foundations of Lafitte’s rumored residence.
The Elissa
A restored 19th-century tall ship and living museum.
End
Texas Seaport Museum (Tall Ship Elissa)