Ahoy, ye scallywags! September 19 be the day we cast off our landlubber ways and embrace the swashbucklin’ spirit of International Talk Like a Pirate Day. It’s the perfect excuse to unleash yer inner buccaneer and sprinkle a bit o’ pirate lingo into yer everyday banter. Whether ye be a seasoned seadog or just a wee cabin boy, here’s a refresher to help ye talk like the fiercest pirate this side o’ the seven seas.
- Say “me” instead o’ “my,” as in “Me playlist be full o’ treasures.”
- Double up on them adjectives—pirates be as colorful in speech as they be in attire.
- Use “ye” or “yer” for “you” or “your.” “How be ye handlin’ that climb, matey?”
- Drop them “g” and “v” sounds. No pirate worth his salt be enunciatin’!
- “Arr!” be yer best mate when the ride gets rough. Use it liberally, as in “Arr, me thinks ye could add more resistance there, Jack!” (Take note…all yer riders be named “Jack”!)
- Growl, roll yer Rs, and grumble. Pirates don’t just talk, they command—especially if they be on that instructor’s bike!
- Strut yer stuff—no pirate ever cowered from a challenge! “Ay, me hearty, the hardest part of the ride be yet ahead—onward!”
- Pirates be quick with a witty insult, so have a few handy to keep the crew in line.
Check out this list of common pirate phrases and their landlubber translations, or if ye be lookin’ for somethin’ specific, consult this handy English to pirate translator.
Tips for Craftin’ a Pirate-Themed Playlist
No need to fill yer entire playlist with pirate tunes—just sprinkle in a few o’ these tracks to pay homage to the day…and don’t forget yer eye patch! But if ye be goin’ all out with a pirate-themed special event, consider buildin’ yer playlist around these sub-themes in addition to the pirate songs we’re givin’ ye. I’ve included a few song suggestions to get yer sails hoisted:
- Renegades (“Renegade” by X Ambassadors)
- The bad ‘n bold (“Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish, “Bad Boys Running Wild” by The Scorpions)
- The dark side (“Paint it Black” by The Rolling Stones)
- Drinkin’ songs (“Rum” by The Brothers Osborne, “Rum is the Reason” by Toby Keith)
- Raisin’ hell (“Raise Hell” by Brandi Carlile, “Raise Hell” by Dorothy)
- Gold and treasure (“Gold Coins” by Charli XCX, or check out our extensive bucket playlist on money)
- The deep blue sea (see our ocean-themed playlist here)
Our Talk Like a Pirate Day playlist be brimming with almost 140 songs that’ll have ye swingin’ from the rigging. Below be a few choice picks to get yer crew in the right frame o’ mind.
He’s A Pirate – Tiësto Remix, Hans Zimmer, Klaus Badelt, 7:03, 129 bpm
The iconic music from the Pirates of the Caribbean film series has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, and “He’s A Pirate” is the crowning jewel of this beloved soundtrack. This Tiësto remix takes the familiar theme and infuses it with an electrifying energy, making it ideal for a challenging climb that builds momentum. At 65 rpm, this track will have your riders feeling like they’re scaling the masts of a grand pirate ship, conquering each hill with swashbuckling determination.
Troublemaker, Green Day, 2:45, 141 bpm
Pirates are the quintessential troublemakers, always looking for the next thrill and ready to stir up some chaos. Green Day’s “Troublemaker” perfectly encapsulates that rebellious spirit, with a driving beat that pushes riders to give their all. This track is perfect for a hard-hitting interval at 70 rpm, channeling the relentless energy of a pirate crew on the hunt for their next adventure.
Let’s Kill Tonight, Panic! At the Disco, 3:34, 93 bpm
In the world of pirates, survival often depended on a delicate balance of threat and action. Black Sails, the hit series on Netflix (highly recommended by me!), reveals that contrary to popular belief, pirates weren’t always eager for bloodshed; in fact, Blackbeard was known to avoid violence when possible. That said, they never hesitated to protect their plunder when necessary. “Let’s Kill Tonight” by Panic! At the Disco captures that edge-of-your-seat intensity. Use this track for a fast-paced, high-energy interval that mirrors the urgency and danger of a pirate skirmish.
Riders on the Storm, The Hip Abduction, 4:36, 84 bpm
Pirates were known for navigating treacherous seas, often finding themselves as true riders on the storm. This unique cover by The Hip Abduction brings a fresh twist to the classic track, with a laid-back vibe that still carries an undercurrent of danger. At 84 bpm, it’s versatile enough to use as a warm-up or moderate flat, setting the stage for the challenges ahead or offering a moment to catch your breath before the storm hits.
Yo, Ho, Ho (And a Bottle of Rum), Craig Toungate, (from Pirates of the Caribbean, Disneyland), 2:02
Add a dash of humor to your ride with this playful tune from the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland. “Yo, Ho, Ho” is the quintessential pirate anthem, and it’s perfect for a lighthearted recovery song that lets your riders imagine themselves aboard the Queen Anne’s Revenge (Blackbeard’s notorious vessel), enjoying a well-earned break. Alternatively, play it as a pre- or post-class track to set the mood and get everyone in the pirate spirit.
Pirate Queen, Karliene, 4:43, 120 bpm
Close out your ride with the haunting and powerful “Pirate Queen” by Karliene, a tribute to the legendary female pirate Anne Bonny. Known for her fierce independence and tenacity, Anne Bonny’s story is one of defiance and survival. This track serves as a fitting finale, inspiring your riders to reflect on the boldness that defined this infamous pirate queen.
So batten down the hatches and get ready to set sail on a ride like no other! Whether ye be shoutin’ “Arrr!” through them intervals or singin’ along to pirate anthems, this theme ride concept be sure to make yer crew feel like they’re plunderin’ treasure on the high seas. So grab yer sword (or, in this case, yer water bottle) and prepare for a ride fit for a pirate king! Savvy? Gulp your favorite grog while creating yer playlist from the extensive bucket playlist below.