LEGO Pirates is a classic theme that took LEGO characters to the high seas for the first time in some impreessive vessels, so Blocks is taking a look at the finest ships from the retro LEGO theme.
Up until 1989, LEGO minifigures didn’t have very many choices about where they had their adventures. Exploring the cosmos or sacking a castle certainly do have their charms, but after a decade of those themes reigning supreme, it was time for a change of scenery — LEGO Pirates.
LEGO Pirates went all-out from the very start, debuting all sorts of new pieces, which included new minifigure face prints, peglegs and hooks. But the highlight for very lucky children was being able to get their hands on a LEGO pirate ship. And much like the minifigures, these models were littered with new elements to make LEGO Pirates the absolute best it could be.
So join Blocks, the monthly LEGO magazine on a voyage to find the six best retro LEGO pirate ships…
6271 Imperial Flagship
The first ship to earn a spot on this list isn’t quite a pirate ship, but 6271 Imperial Flagship fits the bill well enough to qualify. Released in 1992, the set gives the Imperial navy a fighting chance against their persistent pirate problem. There are only two cannons — although they can face either way — but the imposing sails might be enough to terrify pirate crews into surrendering. The sails both come with two crossed cannons and a royal crown, signalling to all upon the waves that the royal law is to be respected.
6289 Red Beard Runner
1996’s 6289 Red Beard Runner is noteworthy for its absurdity more than anything. The stern is one of the most built-up of any classic pirate ship; large white slopes add a splash of colour that’s not black or brown — two very common colours when it comes to pirate vessels. The sails are a step beyond tattered, coming with dozens of patches to try and keep the ship functional. But the set has other plans, offering play features that topple the mast and send the captain flying off the wheel.
Upgrade your LEGO hobby! If you take out a subscription to Blocks, the monthly LEGO magazine, you’ll get each issue first and at a discount, plus other perks including a free digital subscription and the chance to win LEGO prizes every month.
6247 Caribbean Clipper
Admittedly the second not-quite pirate ship to grace this list, 1989’s 6274 Caribbean Clipper has a beautiful blue and white colour scheme for its sails that is simply too nice to ignore. On the smaller side for LEGO pirate ships, the Clipper still boats two cannons and four crewmen. The ship itself is fairly standard when it comes to building techniques and overall design compared to other classic ships, but its striking blue sails help this feisty ship stand out on the waves.
6286 Skull’s Eye Schooner
1993 saw the release of 6286 Skull’s Eye Schooner, one of the most feared ships to ever sail the Seven LEGO Seas. This pirate flagship proudly displays its four cannons — doubling the firepower of many other ships. Its sails are equally impressive, flying six separate cloth elements with a simple but satisfying stripped pattern. The captain gets a mighty fine upper deck from which to steer the ship, too, with high walls and a commanding view of the deck and crew below.
Get the Blocks Book of Retro LEGO Sets Volume II now! It includes interviews with LEGO professionals who were there in the 1980s and 1990s, set spotlights, exclusive build instructions and more.
6245 Harbour Sentry
It’s fitting that a set from LEGO Pirates’ first year is also the best. 6245 Harbour Sentry is truly a fantastic model, using just 20 pieces to create the seas’ most feared vessel. The large cannon grants the ship the best size-to-firepower ratio of any LEGO pirate ship — although let’s face it, if this sailor fires that cannon then he’s probably going to sink himself. Still, for the bargain price, young Pirates fans couldn’t go wrong.
6285 Black Seas Barracuda
Fun as an overpowered rowboat is, it’s far from the best LEGO pirate ship. That honour falls to none other than 6285 Black Seas Barracuda. Also a 1989 release, the Barracuda is the holy grail of LEGO Pirates sets, and it more than deserves that status. It’s the quintessential LEGO pirate ship, with a solid hull, red-and-white sails, yellow highlights and a rowdy pirate crew ready to conquer the waves. Its nine figures include the first appearance of the infamous Captain Redbeard and the original monkey figure. There’s even a rowboat included for good measure. The LEGO Group paid tribute to the set in 21322 Pirates of Barracuda Bay.
Did your favourite classic LEGO pirate ship make the list? Or is another your top choice? While you grumble about it, check out our list of the best modern pirate ships…
Images courtesy of Brickset.com