LEGO® History: Pirates

18 May 2023

The LEGO theme Pirates is one of the most iconic and long-running themes in LEGO history. The theme was first introduced in 1989 and has since returned regularly with new sets and figures. In this article, we will explore the history of the LEGO theme Pirates, from its origins to the present.

In 1989, LEGO released the first Pirates-themed sets. These sets were aimed at children ages 7 and up and included various pirate boats, castles, forts and islands. The sets were very well received and proved popular with children and collectors around the world.

A LEGO® Pirates Icon

One of the most popular sets from the original series was the Black Seas Barracuda, a large pirate boat with various features and accessories, such as cannons, sails and a treasure chest. The ship quickly became a symbol of the Pirates theme and was included in later series.

Barracuda

In the 1990s, the Pirates theme was expanded with new sets and characters, including the infamous pirate Captain Redbeard and his crew of pirates. In 1993, the theme was expanded with a series of sets based on the stories of classic author Robert Louis Stevenson, such as Treasure Island.

In the 2000s, the Pirates theme was relaunched with new sets and characters. The sets were equipped with new technologies and features, such as moving cannons and light and sound effects. New characters were also introduced, such as the female pirate Anne Bonny.

In recent years, LEGO has revived the Pirates theme with new sets and figures. The sets still contain the signature elements of the Pirates theme, such as pirate boats, forts and treasure, but feature modern technologies and accessories.

Look back in this video to see what different pirate boats have been issued in recent years:

The Pirates theme has become an important part of LEGO history over the years and has captured the imagination of children and collectors around the world. The sets are loved for their detailed designs and unique characters.

Pirates sets now and in the future

The most recent set that also does fit under the pirate theme is the 31109 Pirate Ship. Unfortunately, this is also the only Pirates set currently available.

In the future, it will be interesting to see how LEGO continues to develop and expand the Pirates theme to appeal to new generations of children and collectors. But one thing is certain: the pirate theme will always return.

More LEGO® history

Are you interested in even more LEGO® history? Then read our other articles on, for example, the history of LEGO History - Space or LEGO® history - The Minifigure.

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