Family holidays with a pirate twist in Florida

Florida is a very popular family holiday destination thanks to its many theme parks, lovely weather, exciting wildlife and many beaches.

However, for families keen on having a fun active holiday there are also lots of opportunities to take to the water pirate-style and explore some of the lesser known sides of the US state.

In the north of the state is Panama City Beach, known for being a scuba diving and fishing hotspot.

Families can also get the pirate ship experience from the beach with the Sea Dragon Sailing Tour on an 85-foot sailing ship. The cruise lasts two hours and takes guests of all ages.

If you are more keen to experience quieter locations in Florida, then a treasure hunt in the state's north-central region offers a chance to learn about the Florida's history.

The Hidden Treasures of North Florida Geocaching Treasure Trail has an interactive map highlighting places of interest, that works with GPS technology, ideal for holidaymakers on a Florida fly-drive break.

Among the places to see is the Tallahassee Museum, which has several historical buildings including an 1880s farm, a swamp and a zoo featuring alligators, bears and bobcats within its grounds.

For an active holiday there travellers can explore the 80-acre Letchworth Mounds State Archaeological Park, a sacred Native American site. There are also more state parks close by in the area.

Holidaymakers with an interest in the supernatural can head to the haunted houses of the town of Monticello, also on the treasure hunt map.

Further south in St Augustine there are is another ghost-themed experience to be had.

The Ghosts of the Mantanzas Sailing Tour takes place on a 72-foot sailing vessel, upon which a pirate captain shares stories, ghosts and legends.

The major theme parks of Orlando are also getting in on the pirate act this summer.

Elmo and the Bookaneers will be at SeaWorld Orlando all summer.

The Sesame Street pirates include Elmo, Bert and Ernie, Rosita, Telly Monster and Cookie Monster, who will be singing, dancing and teaching young ones to read during the new 20-minute family show.

Disney World in Orlando will also be getting in on the Florida pirate theme with Pirates of the Caribbean in-resort money.

The three new Disney Dollars will have a skull and crossbones on the front and pictures of the Pirates of the Caribbean flagship vessels on the back.

For more information see www.visitflorida.com