Here Are the 8 Best Pirate Anime That You Mustn’t Miss

Pirate anime whisks us away on thrilling journeys across seas and stars, blending high-stakes action with unforgettable characters. From classic tales of treasure-hunting rogues to futuristic space-faring outlaws, these stories capture the wild spirit of piracy in vibrant, animated worlds.

Whether you’re drawn to swashbuckling battles or tales of camaraderie, this list of eight pirate anime offers something for everyone. Each show or movie brings its own flavor, from gritty modern mercenaries to whimsical high school pirates. Let’s dive into these exciting adventures.

8. Fena: Pirate Princess (2021)

This original anime follows Fena Houtman, a young orphan in an alternate 18th-century world, escaping her captors to uncover her mysterious past. She joins a loyal pirate crew, sailing to find her true home while facing dangerous European navies.

With beautifully choreographed fights and a strong, emotional lead, ‘Fena: Pirate Princess’ delivers a fresh take on pirate tales. Its vibrant animation and heartfelt story make it a quick, engaging watch over 12 episodes.

7. Mars Daybreak (2004)

Set on a water-covered Mars, ‘Mars Daybreak’ centers on Gram River, an orphan who stumbles into a notorious pirate crew. The story blends action, comedy, and a touch of romance as Gram navigates life among honorable outlaws stealing from corrupt forces.

The show’s unique setting and well-rounded characters create a fun, 26-episode adventure. Its mix of mecha battles and heartfelt moments keeps the stakes high and the story relatable.

6. Sol Bianca: The Legacy (1999-2000)

This OVA series follows an all-female pirate crew—April, Feb, Janny, June, and May—aboard the starship Sol Bianca, chasing a legendary treasure called Gnosis. Their journey pits them against the ruthless Emperor Batros.

‘Sol Bianca: The Legacy’ shines with its fierce, charismatic leads and stunning space visuals across six episodes. The focus on strong female pirates adds a bold, empowering edge to this sci-fi adventure.

5. Space Pirate Captain Harlock (1978-1979)

Captain Harlock, a noble outlaw, leads his misfit crew aboard the Arcadia to fight Earth’s oppressors in a futuristic universe. This classic anime explores themes of freedom and rebellion across 42 episodes.

Its timeless charm lies in Harlock’s brooding heroism and the show’s rich world-building. The retro animation and epic space battles make it a must-watch for fans of space piracy.

4. Outlaw Star (1998)

Gene Starwind and his crew pilot the Outlaw Star, a high-tech ship, in search of the Galactic Leyline treasure. This 26-episode series mixes sci-fi action with humor and a touch of harem-style charm.

The show’s vibrant characters and fast-paced galactic adventures stand out. Its blend of gritty battles and lighthearted moments creates a unique pirate vibe that’s hard to resist.

3. Porco Rosso (1992)

This Studio Ghibli film follows Porco Rosso, a World War I pilot turned into a humanoid pig, now working as a seaplane mercenary battling air pirates in the Adriatic Sea. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, it’s a standalone masterpiece.

‘Porco Rosso’ weaves action, romance, and humor into a beautifully animated tale. Its heartfelt story and stunning visuals make it a perfect one-sitting watch for all ages.

2. Black Lagoon (2006)

Set in the gritty underworld of Roanapur, Thailand, ‘Black Lagoon’ follows a mercenary pirate crew led by Dutch, with the fierce Revy and former salaryman Rock. They smuggle goods and clash with crime syndicates across 24 episodes.

The show’s dark, mature tone and intense action set it apart. Its complex characters and raw depiction of modern piracy make it a gripping, edge-of-your-seat experience.

1. One Piece (1999-Present)

Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates sail the Grand Line, chasing the legendary treasure One Piece to claim the title of Pirate King. With over 1,000 episodes, it’s a sprawling epic of adventure and friendship.

‘One Piece’ stands out for its masterful world-building, quirky characters, and emotional depth. Its mix of humor, action, and heart makes it the ultimate pirate anime, despite its daunting length.

Which pirate anime crew would you sail with, or is there another gem we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!