Pros 
Cons A Voyage Through the Reviews: Is Pirate's Crusade Worth the Trek?
Pirate's Crusade Mini Golf, located at 11801 Tesson Ferry Rd in St. Louis, MO, currently holds a 3.9 rating. But what do adventurers actually think of their experience? A deep dive into recent reviews paints a picture of a course with potential, currently navigating choppy waters. Many patrons highlight a recent refresh of the course—comments frequently mention repairs and updates, suggesting efforts are being made to improve the experience. However, the execution seems… uneven.
Here’s a breakdown of recurring themes:
- The Good: The course is often described as "fun," “challenging,” and “interesting.” Several reviewers specifically enjoyed its difficulty, a welcome change from simpler courses. It’s also widely considered a good spot for families, especially "good for kids," and the availability of other attractions like bowling, beach volleyball and batting cages add to its appeal.
- The Concerning: A significant number of reports focus on the course’s state of disrepair despite the recent updates. Descriptions include "falling apart," "rotting away," and malfunctioning features (like the waterfall). Patrons feel the renovations appear "sporadic and cheaply done."
- The Mixed: While the bowling alley receives consistently positive feedback ("well lit," "lanes are in great shape”), the mini golf itself seems to be the sticking point.
- Accessibility: Pirate's Crusade boasts excellent accessibility with wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms, which is a huge plus for inclusivity.
Beyond the Putt: Amenities and Family Focus
Pirate's Crusade clearly aims to be a full-fledged entertainment destination. It's not just about mini golf; they offer a wider range of activities. This is a major draw for families looking for a single location to fill an afternoon. The on-site restaurant is another added convenience, eliminating the need to pack snacks or find a separate dining option. Here's a quick look at what's on offer:
| Amenity | Availability | Review Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant | Yes | Convenient, but party food service can be slow. |
| Bowling Alley | Yes | Highly praised; lanes well-maintained. |
| Batting Cages | Yes | Mentioned as a positive activity option |
| Beach Volleyball | Yes | Mentioned as a positive activity option |
| Restrooms | Yes | Accessible restrooms available |
The availability of multiple activities could outweigh the negative aspects of the somewhat dilapidated golf course for some. This is particularly true for birthday parties, as noted by one reviewer who indicated a positive experience despite needing more staff support during their event.
Staff Interactions: A Tale of Two Experiences
Customer service appears to be a significant area for improvement at Pirate's Crusade. The contrast in reviews is stark. Some describe the staff as "friendly," while others report downright “terrible” service, specifically at the main desk.
“Customer service is terrible at the main desk. Had never been here before so we were doing mini golf and he basically collected money and ignored the hell out of us. Didn't know where to go at all, no signs.”
This lack of initial guidance is a recurring complaint; reviewers mention a confusing layout and a lack of signage. While the staff on the course may be pleasant, the first impression at the entrance seems to leave much to be desired. Effective training on customer engagement and proactive assistance, plus clear wayfinding signage, could vastly improve the overall experience.
Practical Details & Future Outlook
Pirate's Crusade Mini Golf is open seven days a week, with varying hours:
- Monday: 1 PM - 10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM - 11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM - 11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM - 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 11 AM - 12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM - 10 PM
They accept both credit and debit cards, offering a convenient payment option. You can reach them at (314) 843-9200.
Despite its current 3.9 rating, the reports of ongoing renovations and the wide variety of entertainment options suggest Pirate’s Crusade is actively striving to improve. The promise of a freshly painted and lit neon sign hints at an increased focus on visibility and attracting customers, and the positive buzz surrounding the bowling alley shows what the venue is capable of. However, addressing the concerns regarding the mini golf course’s condition and inconsistent customer service will be crucial for elevating the experience and achieving a higher level of customer satisfaction.