15 Pirate Cartoons for Kids

Publication date: 1950; 73 years ago
Written by: John Ryan

“Captain Pugwash,” a creation of John Ryan, first hoisted its sails in 1957 as a British comic strip before transitioning to television in the late 1950s. The series revolves around the titular character’s adventures, Captain Horatio Pugwash, and his motley crew of eccentric pirates on their ship, The Black Pig.

With his clumsy ineptitude, amusing cowardice, and over-the-top facial expressions, Captain Pugwash endears himself as a lovable and unforgettable character. The appealing animation style and straightforward but captivating storylines have secured “Captain Pugwash” a cherished place in the hearts of fans across generations.

Networks: Disney Junior, Disney Channel
Final episode date: November 6, 2016
First episode date: February 14, 2011 (USA)

The animated Disney Junior series “Jake and the Never Land Pirates” immerses young viewers in the enchanting realm of Never Land. The resourceful trio of Jake, Izzy, and Cubby, along with their parrot Skully, routinely outwit the nefarious Captain Hook and his bungling sidekick, Mr. Smee. The show enchants both children and parents with its infectious melodies, vibrant animations, and invaluable life lessons.

This dynamic series showcases the power of teamwork, problem-solving, and friendship’s importance, all while engaging viewers with thrilling adventures and humorous escapades.

First episode date: February 25, 1991 (USA)
Final episode date: May 23, 1993
Created by: David Kirschner
Original network: ABC (season 1); Syndication (season 2)

In the early 1990s, a cult classic animated series known as “The Pirates of Dark Water” took viewers on an immersive journey into a captivating pirate realm. The story unfolds on the alien planet Mer, following Prince Ren and his loyal crew as they embark on a quest to save their world from the malevolent Dark Water by searching for the legendary Thirteen Treasures of Rule.

Within this exciting tale, a diverse cast of characters enriches the narrative. Among them are the mischievous pirate Ioz, the enigmatic Tula, and the lovable monkey-bird Niddler. Together, they bring forth a thrilling blend of action, adventure, and mystery, making “The Pirates of Dark Water” an unforgettable experience for audiences.

Author: Eiichiro Oda
Volumes: 105 (List of volumes)
Published by: Shueisha
Genres: Action manga, Comedy, Fantasy

“One Piece,” crafted by the talented Eiichiro Oda, stands as an immensely popular Japanese manga and anime series that has captured the adoration and imagination of fans worldwide. This captivating show follows the thrilling exploits of Monkey D. Luffy and his diverse band of pirates known as the Straw Hat Pirates, as they chart their course through the vast oceans in search of the fabled treasure, One Piece.

Brimming with vibrant animation, intricately constructed worlds, and compelling character growth, “One Piece” has firmly secured its place as a dominant force in the realm of pirate-themed entertainment. Its allure continues to enchant audiences, drawing them into an exhilarating adventure that knows no bounds.

Networks: Nickelodeon, CBeebies, Disney Channel, MORE
Final episode date: October 13, 2014
First episode date: August 16, 2004
Spin-off: LazyTown Extra

Magnús Scheving’s “LazyTown,” a popular Icelandic children’s television series, features an adored pirate-themed episode titled “LazyTown’s New Superhero.” In this installment, the comical villain, Robbie Rotten, takes on the guise of a mischievous pirate named Rottenbeard to unleash chaos in LazyTown. The infectious musical composition “You Are a Pirate” has firmly established this episode as a beloved choice among fans.

Set within the vibrant and animated world of “LazyTown,” the pirate escapade creates an enchanting backdrop for the unfolding adventure, while Robbie Rotten’s hilarious antics ensure a constant source of entertainment for the audience.

Release date: August 7, 2019 (France)
Director: Lino DiSalvo
Cinematography: André Turpin

The 2019 animated adventure-comedy film “Playmobil: The Movie,” directed by Lino DiSalvo, brings the beloved Playmobil toy line to life on the big screen. The movie offers a delightful pirate-themed escapade that captivates children and provides enjoyable entertainment for the entire family.

The story revolves around Marla, a young woman on a mission to locate her younger brother, Charlie, who mysteriously disappears into the enchanting world of Playmobil. Determined to rescue him, Marla embarks on a thrilling journey where she encounters a host of colorful Playmobil characters. Among them is Del, a charming and witty pirate captain who becomes her trusted ally along the way.

No. of episodes: 65 (list of episodes)
No. of seasons: 1
Original network: Fox (Fox Kids)

The animated television series “Peter Pan & the Pirates” takes inspiration from J.M. Barrie’s classic story and actively follows the thrilling adventures of Peter Pan and his band of Lost Boys as they battle the infamous Captain Hook and his crew in the magical realm of Neverland. This show brings the beloved tale to life with its lush animation, captivating characters, and engaging storylines, remaining a faithful adaptation.

The series creatively expands upon the traditional pirate narrative, actively weaving in fantasy, friendship, and adventure elements. With his flamboyant personality, cunning schemes, and relentless pursuit of Peter Pan, Captain Hook emerges as a fascinating and entertaining villain, further adding to the show’s appeal.

First episode date: December 2, 2016 (Canada)
Also known as: Zak Storm: Super Pirate
Created by: Zag Heroez; Man of Action
Directed by: Philippe Guyenne

The animated television series “Zak Storm: Super Pirate” actively delves into the adventures of Zak Storm, a stubborn teenager who takes on the captain’s responsibility aboard a magical ship, The Chaos. Accompanied by his motley crew of misfit pirates, Zak fearlessly navigates the treacherous waters of the Bermuda Triangle, engaging in battles with supernatural dangers while seeking a route back home.

The series skillfully crafts a captivating and modern take on the pirate genre, actively blending elements of action, adventure, and humor to create an enthralling experience for the audience.

Initial release: November 12, 2001
Director: James T. Walker
Adapted from: Tom and Jerry

In the animated film “Tom and Jerry: The Magic Ring,” the iconic cat-and-mouse duo actively sets off on a thrilling pirate-themed adventure. One fateful mishap causes Tom to become trapped inside a powerful sorcerer’s magic ring, prompting him and Jerry to join forces in their quest to break the enchantment. Together, they venture into a fantastical world teeming with pirates, treasure, and peril.

With its vibrant animation, slapstick humor, and captivating storyline, the film becomes a delightful and engaging addition to the beloved Tom and Jerry franchise.

Initial release: July 4, 2015
Director: Shinpei Miyashita
Film series: Sinbad

The animated film “Sinbad: The Flying Princess and the Secret Island” actively follows the journey of the legendary adventurer Sinbad as he navigates the seas in search of the elusive treasure, the Golden Bird. Along the way, Sinbad and his crew encounter a mysterious flying princess and a concealed island inhabited by formidable pirates.

This captivating film combines elements of traditional pirate stories with a magical, fantastical twist. The lush animation, enthralling characters, and exhilarating action sequences make “Sinbad: The Flying Princess and the Secret Island” an enchanting experience for both pirate adventure enthusiasts and animated film lovers.

Release date: February 16, 1996 (USA)
Director: Brian Henson
Budget: 5 million USD, 31 million USD
Adapted from: Treasure Island

“Muppet Treasure Island” expertly adapts Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, “Treasure Island,” into a live-action/animated film that stars the beloved Muppets characters.

In this comedic retelling, young Jim Hawkins and his Muppet companions, including Captain Smollett, portrayed by Kermit the Frog, and Benjamina Gunn, embodied by Miss Piggy, embark on an adventurous journey to uncover the legendary treasure of Captain Flint.

The film features a side-splitting performance by Tim Curry as the notorious pirate Long John Silver, seamlessly blending the swashbuckling spirit of the original tale with the trademark humor and charm of the Muppets.

Program creator: Thurop Van Orman
Awards: Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement
Final episode date: August 31, 2010

The animated series “The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack” actively follows the fanciful exploits of a young boy named Flapjack and his pirate mentor, Captain K’nuckles, as they actively search for the legendary Candied Island.

The show is set in the peculiar and fantastical harbor town of Stormalong, where its unique animation style and unconventional humor set it apart from other pirate-themed cartoons. Skillfully intertwining comedy, adventure, and fantasy elements, the series creates an imaginative and enchanting world that actively immerses viewers in its captivating narrative.

Many kids’ shows about pirates, adapted from Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “Treasure Island,” have actively captured young audiences’ attention, immersing them in a world of swashbuckling adventure, intriguing characters, exhilarating treasure hunts, and daring exploits on the high seas.

These adaptations often revolve around the brave young Jim Hawkins, who fearlessly embarks on a treacherous journey alongside a diverse crew of pirates to find the legendary treasure of Captain Flint. Notably, the notorious pirate Long John Silver frequently plays a pivotal role in these tales, imparting essential lessons on trust, loyalty, and friendship.

With their captivating storylines and vibrant animation or live-action performances, “Treasure Island”-inspired kids’ shows spark the imagination of their young viewers. By skillfully weaving humor, action, and fantasy into the narrative, these adaptations deliver a light-hearted and entertaining take on the classic pirate story, actively appealing to and engaging the audience.

Initial release: September 10, 2006
Director: Chuck Sheetz
Casting director: Kelly Ward

Released in 2006, “Scooby-Doo! Pirates Ahoy!” is an animated comedy adventure film that belongs to the popular Scooby-Doo franchise. This long-running series revolves around a group of mystery-solving teenagers and their talking Great Dane, Scooby-Doo. In this particular installment, the gang embarks on a thrilling pirate-themed escapade.

In “Scooby-Doo! Pirates Ahoy!”, Fred’s parents extend an invitation to the Mystery Inc. gang – Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scooby-Doo – to join them on a mystery cruise for Fred’s birthday. The cruise promises staged mysteries for the guests to solve, but the gang quickly grows bored as they easily uncover the fake mysteries.

Release date: January 11, 2008 (USA)
Director: Mike Nawrocki

In 2008, Big Idea Productions produced and Universal Pictures distributed “The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A VeggieTales Movie,” an animated comedy-adventure film.

The story of “The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything” centers around three main characters: George (Pa Grape), Sedgewick (Mr. Lunt), and Elliot (Larry the Cucumber). These three misfit friends work as cabin boys at a dinner theater and share a common dream of starring in a pirate-themed show. However, their fear and insecurity keep them from taking on heroic roles. The film’s title cleverly reflects their reluctance to engage in anything adventurous or brave.

Release date: April 27, 2012 (Canada)
Director: Peter Lord
Production companies: Aardman Animations,

Aardman Animations created “The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists!” in 2012, a stop-motion animated comedy film distributed by Sony Pictures Animation. While not a Netflix original, viewers can enjoy the film on the streaming platform.

In the United States, the film is known as “The Pirates! Band of Misfits,” and it actively adapts the first book of Gideon Defoe’s children’s novel series with the same title. The story follows Pirate Captain, voiced by Hugh Grant, and his motley crew of pirates as they actively embark on a comical quest to win the Pirate of the Year Award.

Set in the Victorian era, the film features historical figures like Charles Darwin, voiced by David Tennant, and Queen Victoria, voiced by Imelda Staunton, adding an extra layer of interest to the adventure.