This winter, sail into the beautiful downtown Norfolk waterfront for an unforgettable exhibit of real pirate treasure.

Presented by National Geographic, Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship takes you on an unforgettable virtual voyage aboard the mighty Wydah, a three-masted galley ship originally launched in 1715 to serve the Atlantic slave trade.

Seized two years later by Captain Bellamy and his crew of pirates, the ship was used to attack and plunder more than 50 ships before sinking with its loads of treasure during a violent storm off the coast of Cape Cod.

Featuring more than 200 original artifacts recovered from the shipwreck site, Real Pirates brings to life a little-understood period in American history that is sure to engage the imagination of the entire family.

There’s no better place to see it than Norfolk, a city rich in its own maritime heritage and filled with sumptuous restaurants, gleaming hotels, great shopping and attractions, including boat tours of the world’s largest naval installation and so much more!

Real Pirates is at Nauticus from November 21, 2009 – April 4, 2010.

Arrrr you ready? Start planning your voyage to Norfolk today!