Instructions for setting up the Pirate Treasure Hunt

The ideal age for this treasure hunt is 3-8, but the clues and treats can be adapted to suit children of all ages and parents can read the clues out loud for younger children. Tiny tots can be engaged by pointing to the picture on each clue card, so they can enjoy looking out for the parrot and other treasure markers.

Allow 30 minutes before your guests arrive to set out the treasure hunt (add an extra 10 minutes for 12 players). Set out the clues and treasure in a clockwise direction, using the treasure map as a guide.

If you choose to write your own clues, you can do this on the reverse of the clue cards in the kit, just cross out those provided with a black marker. The harder you hide the treasure markers the longer the hunt will take.

You can give children additional clues by shouting ‘warmer/colder’, until they find the treasure.

Suggestions for Clue Markers

Clue 1 - Secure the parrot with the peg provided to a tree, washing line or at the top of a curtain. Make up balloon swords and hang them on the branches of a non prickly tree, washing line or curtain pole/track. Tie with string provided in an easy to release bow.

Clue 2 - Place the pirate ship on a lawn and stake to the ground with the peg (when used on hard floors open flap on the base to 90 degrees and stabilise with peg). Hide the treats in a shatterproof bowl behind the ship.

Clue 3 - Place the Captain on the ground, as in Clue 2. Don’t forget to use the footprint cards to lead children to the Captain. Hide the treats in a shatterproof bowl behind the Captain.

Clue 4 - Place the desert island on the ground, as in Clue 2. Hide the treats in a shatterproof bowl behind the island.

Clue 5 - Place the sea creatures in the net and then peg the pirate faces, 20 to 30cm apart, to the branch of a tree, washing line or a drawer handle. Hook the edges of the net over the pegs to hang securely (not too high for unaccompanied children).

Clue 6 - Erect the treasure chest and fill with the nets of gold coins. When the lid is lifted it reads ‘Hunt Ends Here!’.

Now enjoy your Pirate Treasure Hunt!!