Raise Your Glass, Pirate Queens! Gasparilla Brunches You Can’t Miss in 2025 🥂⚓

Ahoy, brunch lovers! If you’re planning to conquer Tampa’s iconic Gasparilla 2025 Pirate Festival, there’s no better way to kick off the day than with a fabulous brunch. From rooftop celebrations to waterfront cruises, these brunches offer not just amazing food and drinks but also unbeatable views of the legendary José Gaspar pirate ship invasion. Whether you’re a first-time festivalgoer or a seasoned Gasparilla queen, this guide will help you plan the ultimate brunch experience.

Even if some of these events are sold out (yes, they’re THAT popular), we’ve included them because they’re essential for Gasparilla SEO relevance and give you ideas to plan ahead for next year!

1. Yacht StarShip’s Gasparilla Invasion Brunch Cruise

• Why It’s a Must: Don’t own a boat? No problem! This 2.5-hour brunch cruise puts you right in the middle of the Gasparilla flotilla, offering unparalleled views of the José Gaspar pirate ship as it sails across Tampa Bay.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025
  • StarShip I: Ultimate Gasparilla Experience, Departure: 10:30 AM
  • StarShip II: Front-Row Seat to the Action, Departure: 11:00 AM
• Cost: Adults $149.95-$289.95 | Kids $129.95-$199.95
• What’s Included: Full brunch buffet, two drink tickets, DJ entertainment, reserved table, and prime views of the invasion.

2. Gasparilla Invasion Brunch at Tampa Convention Center

• Why It’s Classic: As the official Gasparilla brunch, this event is a favorite for its central location and festive atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty buffet and live entertainment while watching the pirate invasion from the Tampa Convention Center.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:00 AM
• Cost: $155 per person
• Pro Tip: Upgrade to the Scully Hospitality Experience for reserved seating, drinks, and pre-parade entertainment.

3. 15th Annual Gasparilla Extravaganza at The Westin

• Why It’s Luxurious: With a gourmet buffet, open bar, live music, and even a magician, this event offers prime viewing of the pirate invasion from Harbour Island. Plus, proceeds benefit a great cause!
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Cost: Adults $250 | Kids $30
• Bonus Features: Silent auction, 360-photo booth, and private bathrooms.

4. Florida Aquarium Gasparilla Invasion Brunch Cruise

• Why It’s Special: Set sail on the Bay Spirit II catamaran for a 72’ up-close invasion experience. This 21+ event includes unlimited brunch, an open bar, and live DJ entertainment.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Cost: $195 per person
• SOLD OUT

5. Junior League Gasparilla Invasion Party

• Why It’s Fun: This 21+ event at Davis Islands is known for its vibrant energy and unbeatable views of the invasion. Tickets include unlimited food, drinks, and live entertainment.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Cost: $160 per ticket
• VIP Perk: Reserve a high-top table for a private space to gather with friends.

6. Starlite Cruises Gasparilla Invasion Experience

• Why It’s Epic: An 11-hour extravaganza starting in St. Petersburg, this event includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus reserved parade seating. Talk about all-day pirate vibes!
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, Boarding: 8:30 AM | Returning: 8:00 PM
• Cost: $293.95 per person
• Highlights: Sail across Tampa Bay, enjoy a buffet, and get front-row views of the parade.

7. American Social’s Gasparilla Invasion Brunch Party

• Why It’s Legendary: Overlook the Garrison Channel from this two-level private terrace, complete with bottomless brunch, open bar, and DJ entertainment.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:00 AM
• Cost: $195 per person
• SOLD OUT

8. Gasparilla Bar Crawl & Brunch

• Why It’s a Blast: With 20+ venues across Tampa, this bar crawl offers exclusive drink specials, complimentary welcome shots, and the option to upgrade to a buffet-style brunch.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Cost: $34-$69
• Upgrade: Go VIP for rooftop access and unlimited mimosas.

9. 2nd Annual Pirates of the Groove Brunch

• Why It’s Unique: Featuring a Latin-inspired cuisine buffet and an open bar, this event is all about great music and good vibes.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Cost: Buffet: $91.50 | Open Bar: $183-$274.50

10. University of Tampa Gasparilla Brunch

• Why It’s Local: Perfect for alumni and locals, this brunch includes a buffet, open bar, and parking—plus exclusive UT beads for pirate flair.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Cost: $75 per person
• Pro Tip: Tickets include parking—an invaluable perk on parade day!

11. Scully Hospitality Experience

• Why It’s VIP: Located at show center on Howard Avenue, this package includes bleacher seating, pre-parade entertainment, and a picnic-style buffet.
• When: Saturday, January 25, 2025
• Cost: Adults $175 | Kids $75
• Bonus: Children under 2 are free!

12. Pirate Invasion “Hair of the Dog” Brunch

• Why It’s Fun: Recover from the festivities with bottomless mimosas, Bloody Marys, and hearty brunch options at MacDinton’s Irish Pub.
• When: Sunday, January 26, 2025, 11:00 AM
• Cost: Varies based on menu items.

Tips for Brunching Like a Gasparilla Pro

1. Book Early: Popular events sell out weeks in advance.
2. Dress the Part: Pirate chic meets weather-ready layers—think hats, boots, and coats.
3. Plan Transportation: Use rideshares, trolleys, or secure parking passes.
4. Bring Cash: Some vendors are old-school and cash-only.
5. Stay Hydrated: Pace yourself with plenty of water between mimosas!

With so many fabulous options, Gasparilla brunches are more than a meal—they’re an experience. From sipping champagne on a yacht to dancing on a rooftop, there’s something for every pirate to enjoy. Start planning your day now and make this year’s Gasparilla the most memorable yet!