One of the most unique Mardi Gras traditions on the Gulf Coast returns to the water this winter as the Pirates of Lost Treasure prepare for their annual Mardi Gras Flotilla in Perdido Key.

The Pirates of Lost Treasure Mardi Gras Flotilla will take place Saturday, January 31, 2026, bringing decorated boats, pirate crews, and bead throwing to the Intracoastal Waterway and Ole River in a celebration that blends Mardi Gras fun with a long-standing local charity mission.

When Is the Pirates of Lost Treasure Flotilla

Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Boat departure: 10:45 am
Departure location: Holiday Harbor Marina
Post-flotilla celebration: Flora-Bama

Boats will depart Holiday Harbor Marina promptly at 10:45 am before heading east and west along the Intracoastal Waterway and Ole River, throwing beads and Mardi Gras throws to spectators along docks, waterfront restaurants, and shoreline viewing areas.

Flotilla Route and What to Expect

The Pirates of Lost Treasure Flotilla travels through some of the most popular waterfront stretches in Perdido Key and along the Alabama Florida line.

The flotilla route includes:

Departure from Holiday Harbor Marina
Stops along Ole River and the Intracoastal Waterway
Bead throwing at waterfront bars and docks
Final landing at the Flora-Bama Yacht Club beach

Once the flotilla wraps up, the celebration continues at the Flora-Bama with live music, food, and Mardi Gras festivities.

About the Pirates of Lost Treasure Krewe

Founded in 1992 in Perdido Key, the Pirates of Lost Treasure began as a small group of locals who wanted to bring Mardi Gras traditions to the water. Over the years, the krewe has grown into a well-known Mardi Gras organization with more than 125 members and associates.

Beyond parades and parties, the Pirates are best known for their Secret Santa program, which supports approximately 125 local children each year during the holidays. The flotilla and related events help fund these charitable efforts while keeping Mardi Gras traditions alive on the water.

You’ll also see the Pirates of Lost Treasure at:

Local Mardi Gras parades
Their food booth during the annual Mullet Toss
Community events throughout the year

How to Participate in the Flotilla

Boat owners interested in joining the flotilla can register their boat for $50, which includes a T-shirt and ditty bag. Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats, dress like pirates, and bring family and friends along to throw beads to the crowds.

Registration and information can be obtained by contacting:

David Legendre
504 452 6750

Promotion Parties and Captain’s Meeting

Leading up to flotilla day, the Pirates host several promotion parties where participants and the public can get involved.

Upcoming events include:

Promotion parties at local venues throughout January
Captain’s Meeting on January 30, 2026 at Hub Stacy’s at the Point
Final flotilla preparation and registration opportunities

These events help build excitement for flotilla day and allow participants to purchase merchandise and get final details.

Why the Flotilla Is a Mardi Gras Favorite

Unlike traditional street parades, the Pirates of Lost Treasure Flotilla brings Mardi Gras to the water, making it a favorite for boaters, waterfront restaurants, and spectators who want a different kind of parade experience.

Event weekends bring increased traffic, particularly for:

Mardi Gras flotillas and parades
Waterfront celebrations
Charity driven community events

The flotilla remains one of the most anticipated water-based Mardi Gras events in the region.

Planning More Mardi Gras Events in Pensacola?

If you’re building out your Mardi Gras plans beyond the flotilla, these guides can help you plan the rest of the season:

• Pensacola Mardi Gras 2026 Guide
Parade dates, start times, downtown events, and Pensacola Beach celebrations.

• Kids and Kritters Parade on Pensacola Beach
A family friendly Mardi Gras parade with costumed pets, mini floats, and activities for kids.

• Things to Do Outside of the Parades

Mardi Gras season is just getting started, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate around Pensacola and the beach.

If this guide helped you plan your trip, you can support Must Do Pensacola by grabbing a sticker.

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Pirates of Lost Treasure Mardi Gras Flotilla Returns January 31, 2026