Love this place. It's definitely a no-frills little bar for salty sailor types, which is why it's so charming.
Officially, this place is the clubroom for the Williamstown Maritime Assosciation. But it's completely open to the public, and it's a warm and welcoming place.
The tavern is located within the Seaworks precinct, where the Sea Sepherd ships are docked, and it can be a little daunting to find your way the first time. Basically, you take a left on Ann St from Nelson Pl and head toward the water. There's some parking along Ann St. Check out the creepy historic bluestone morgue and head through the adjacent gates into the industrial-looking port area. Follow the sign to the Pirates Tavern, take a left, and you'll see it.
Inside, it's warm and cozy in a rough-and-tumble kind of way. The bar's to your left and the stage is straight ahead.
They have live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and once a month on Sundays too. Usually music that appeals to an older crowd. The crowd here mostly IS on the older side, but children and families are welcome too. Zero dress code here -- if you're dressed elegantly, this is the wrong place for you.
Drinks are reasonably priced and they have a wide range on offer. Service is genuinely friendly.
Note that Pirates Tavern is only open on the weekends -- Friday night through Sunday night.
If you come on a Sunday afternoon, you can also tour the Sea Shepherd ship docked outside for free. Win! read more