‘Pirate Ship’ Rides High Seas at Big Bear

A one-third-size working replica of a 16th century Spanish galleon has begun plying the waters of Big Bear Lake, offering daily trips with on-board entertainment, refreshments and a crew of costumed “pirates.”

The 56-foot-long, four-masted sailboat, which holds 25 passengers, was built by a father-son team in the 1970s and appeared in various videos and movies, according to Ed Kinsley of Big Bear, who, with his wife, Kelli, now owns it. They have christened it “Time Bandit.”

It makes a 90-minute-long loop around the lake once a day on weekdays and several times a day on weekends, leaving from Holloway’s Marina on the south side of the lake.

Fares for one loop around are $12.95 for adults, $9.95 for kids age 3-11, free for children 2 and under. Passengers can get on and off at will. Information: (909) 878-4040.