Top 25 Best Pirate Anime Of All Time

"One Piece" stands as one of the greatest pirate anime series ever created. Based on the wildly popular manga of the same name, this epic adventure is produced by Toei Animation and debuted in October 1999. Over the years, it has captivated fans worldwide with thousands of episodes, available through both television and theatrical releases.

The story begins with the legendary Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, renowned for his strength and infamy. Upon his capture and execution, the world was thrown into chaos. With his final words, Roger revealed the location of the world’s greatest treasure, known as One Piece—the very namesake of the series.

This revelation sparked the Great Pirate Era, as countless pirates set sail in search of the elusive treasure, braving endless challenges and fierce rivalries. Against this vast backdrop emerges Monkey D. Luffy, a spirited 17-year-old who embodies the true spirit of a pirate.

Luffy embarks on a thrilling quest for adventure, forming a loyal crew and journeying across the dangerous Grand Line. Along the way, they encounter mysterious lands, formidable enemies, and unforgettable allies.

It’s no surprise that "One Piece" is considered the gold standard for pirate anime. Beyond its monumental popularity, it ranks among the most commercially successful media franchises ever. Its placement on this list is well-deserved and entirely fitting.

But what truly sets "One Piece" apart is not just its length, but the compelling content and intricate storytelling. The show delivers a rich, immersive experience, captivating viewers with its depth, heart, and spectacular narrative.

Inspired by tales of Vinland, a mythical land of peace, young Thorfinn dreams of leaving his icy Icelandic village and escaping his life as a mercenary. His yearning is fueled by a desire to find a place untouched by violence.

Yet, reality proves harsh as he finds himself in the midst of war, a life that stands in stark contrast to the non-violent ideals his father once preached. The relentless struggle between England and the Danes continues to intensify, drawing Viking mercenaries deeper into the conflict.

These warriors, eager for fame and fortune, thrive on the chaos of battle. Their shifting loyalties hold the potential to alter the very balance of power. Within this turmoil, Thorfinn pursues a single goal—avenging his father by defeating Askeladd, the very man who took his life.

Despite the anime's focus on Vikings over traditional pirates, "Vinland Saga" captures the spirit and themes that make pirate adventures so compelling. The series explores how these warriors disrupt and shape the world around them, echoing the impact of pirates throughout history.

More than just an action-packed adventure, "Vinland Saga" stands out as an exceptional historical anime, resonating with viewers worldwide. Its immersive storytelling can only be fully appreciated by experiencing it firsthand, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Also known as "Episode of Nami: Tears of a Navigator and the Bonds of Friends," this special is a standout entry in the One Piece franchise. While following the main storyline of One Piece, it puts a particular focus on Nami, one of the core crew members.

The story revisits the events following the Baratie Arc, when Nami decides to leave the crew. Determined to understand her actions, Luffy and the other Straw Hats follow Nami and discover she is working for the infamous pirate Arlong.

Arlong, the villain responsible for the death of Nami's mother, exploits Nami's extraordinary navigating skills for his own benefit over a decade. His manipulation has kept Nami trapped, forced to help the Arlong Pirates in hopes of saving her village.

Once Luffy learns the truth, he rallies the crew, leading to Arlong's defeat. After his downfall, Nami officially becomes the Straw Hat Pirates' navigator, embarking with them to explore the seas.

Nami is the second member ever to join the Straw Hats and is known for her bold and determined personality. Though she initially planned to rob the team to buy back her village, her loyalty shifted as she rebelled against Arlong and found true friendship among the Straw Hats.

Driven by a dream to create a map of the entire world, Nami is renowned for her confidence and resourcefulness, making her one of the most compelling characters in One Piece lore.

Black Lagoon is a thrilling Japanese anime adaptation based on the manga by Rei Hiroe. Produced by Jun, Mitsutoshi, and Junya, the series is steeped in themes of piracy, organized crime, and intense gunfights, drawing viewers into a world of excitement and danger.

Set in the 1990s, the story centers on Rokuro Okajima, known as Rock, a 25-year-old office worker from Japan. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is kidnapped by the infamous Black Lagoon crew—a notorious band of pirates engaged in smuggling throughout Southeast Asia.

The Black Lagoon group is led by Dutch, an African American former US Navy crewman. Lending firepower to the team is Revy, a fierce Chinese American gunfighter, while Benny, a Jewish-American college graduate, handles mechanics and computer expertise. Each member brings unique skills to the crew, creating a formidable team.

Initially abandoned by his employers, Rock decides to join the Black Lagoon crew. While he adapts to the outlaw life, he retains a kindhearted attitude, eventually becoming a key figure and often the group's public face thanks to his diplomatic nature.

Much of the action is set in Roanapur, a fictional Thai city notorious for harboring criminals, thieves, and pirates. Black Lagoon stands out for its raw depiction of brutal violence, adrenaline-charged shootouts, and its focus on shady underworld dealings.

Despite its gritty themes, it’s these explosive elements that make Black Lagoon one of the most captivating and unforgettable series in pirate anime.

"Outlaw Star" first aired on January 8, 1998, and is available through Adult Swim. This anime blends thrilling space adventures with a dynamic space opera, creating a captivating universe for viewers to explore.

The series was conceptualized by Hajime Yatate and Takehiko Ito, with direction by Mitsuru Hongo for its first season. Set in the "Towards Stars Era," the story takes place in a future where starships traverse the galaxy faster than the speed of light.

Years before the events of the series, an asteroid containing a mysterious substance called Dragonite crashed into the Northern China desert. Advanced research revealed that Dragonite possesses 'ether'—a powerful energy resource that enables breakneck speeds for spacecraft.

This technological leap led to rapid colonization across outer space. As rival factions arose and piracy became rampant among colonizers, the Earth Federation established four major powers: USSA, Piotr, Einhorn, and Tenpa, to maintain order.

The plot centers around Gene, who is introduced as an 11-year-old boy and matures into a 20-year-old man by the series' end. Traumatized by an attack that killed his father, Gene harbors a deep fear of space travel and a lingering resentment toward pirates.

Gene's partner, James Hawking, is an 11-year-old business prodigy and the son of the legendary hacker known as the "Computer Wizard." James is gifted not only in hacking but also in devising backup strategies, making him a reliable and cautious member of their team.

Together, the duo faces countless dangers and moral dilemmas as they navigate a chaotic universe where alliances and loyalties are constantly tested.

Arcadia Of My Youth: Endless Orbit SSX first aired on October 13, 1982, and was created by the legendary Leiji Matsumoto. This series serves as a sequel to the animated film Arcadia Of My Youth, expanding upon its rich universe.

Blending elements of science fiction and fantasy, the story begins exactly where the movie left off. Captain Harlock and his crew aboard the spaceship Arcadia have been exiled from Earth, setting the stage for a cosmic adventure.

Throughout the galaxy, including Earth itself, planets have fallen under the rule of the destructive humanoid race known as the Illumidas. Their relentless campaign seeks to oppress and decimate nearly every world they encounter.

Captain Harlock courageously rises against the Illumidas, striving to free these planets from tyranny. He is also on a quest to find the legendary Planet Of Peace—a utopia where everyone lives in harmony, free from war and injustice.

The Planet Of Peace is said to be a place without conflict, where resources are shared and equality prevails. As a protagonist, Captain Harlock is portrayed as an idealist who values loyalty and unity among his crew on the Arcadia.

Despite being reserved and stoic, Harlock fosters deep bonds with his companions, especially Tochiro Oyama, the genius behind the creation of the Arcadia. Together, they face countless challenges during their interstellar battles.

Harlock is not only a formidable pirate but also a masterful strategist and fighter, making him an inspiring symbol of resistance and hope throughout the universe.

"Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet" is a Japanese anime series produced by Production I.G and directed by Kazuya Murata. Released in 2013, the series is based on a manga of the same name that was serialized in Newtype Ace during the same year.

Set in a distant future, humanity has moved among the stars and established the Galactic Alliance of Humankind. The Alliance faces an ongoing war with a formidable alien race known as the Hideauze.

The story follows Ensign Ledo, a 16-year-old soldier and pilot in the Galactic Alliance. He operates a Machine Caliber—a highly advanced artificial intelligence equipped with a humanoid form, often referred to as "Chamber."

During a critical mission, the Alliance's attempt to destroy an enemy weapon fails, and Ledo is pulled into a wormhole, causing him to lose consciousness. Upon awakening, he discovers that his Chamber is now in the possession of human scavengers.

It is revealed that the planet where he has landed is actually Earth—the birthplace of humanity, thought to be merely a myth by the Galactic Alliance. Ledo finds himself struggling to adapt to Earth's unfamiliar language, culture, and way of life as he tries to find his place in this new world.

Tenchi Muyo, also known as Do Not Turn Over, is based on a novel. Created by Masaki Kajishima and directed by Hiroki Hayashi, this anime blends comedy, harem, and space adventure genres. It first aired on April 3, 2002.

The story centers around Seina Yamada, a high school student living with his parents and younger sister in rural Japan. Seina's ordinary life is turned upside down by extraordinary events that unfold right outside his home.

Everything changes when a massive spacecraft crashes into a nearby lake, causing a devastating tsunami. The chaos puts many lives in danger, including Seina's, who narrowly escapes drowning thanks to a twist of fate.

Seina is rescued by Amane, the spacecraft's pilot, who hands him an application form. Unaware of what it's for, Seina is pressured by his family to fill out the application, leading to unexpected consequences.

The following morning, Seina discovers that he has been inadvertently recruited into the Galaxy Police. It turns out the mysterious application was an enrollment form for this galactic organization.

Interestingly, the Galaxy Police originally intended to recruit Tenchi, but ended up with Seina instead. As a beloved classic, Tenchi Muyo remains highly regarded among fans, a testament to its enduring and captivating storyline.

Set in a futuristic Japan, where much of the land lies underwater due to dramatic tectonic shifts, the nation has reinvented itself as a maritime powerhouse. Bustling coastal cities thrive, supported by a robust naval defense, and the elite Blue Mermaids dedicate themselves to safeguarding the seas. Their reputation inspires countless young girls to dream of joining their ranks.

Childhood friends Akeno Misaki and Moeka China reunite at the prestigious Yokosuka Girls' Marine High School. There, they meet classmates driven by similar ambitions. Through intense training, Akeno earns command of the destroyer Harekaze, forming a close and loyal crew along the way.

When sudden malfunctions leave their ship stranded, the girls face perilous challenges at sea. "High School Fleet" chronicles their brave quest to become true Blue Mermaids, highlighting their resilience as they navigate danger and forge unbreakable bonds.

"Elemental Gelade" is a Japanese anime crafted by Mayumi Azuma, who is both its writer and illustrator. Blending fantasy and adventure, the story centers around a group of five individuals embarking on a perilous journey to Edel Garden.

Edel Garden serves as the origin of mystical beings known as Edel Raids, also referred to as Living Weapons. Premiering on April 5, 2005, the series is set in the world of Guardia, where Edel Raids coexist with humans.

These Edel Raids can merge with humans, transforming into formidable Living Weapons. The anime spotlights Coud Van Giruet, a young pirate thrust into a grand adventure, alongside characters like Reverie and the protective Three Guardians of Edel from the Arc Aile organization, led by Cisqua.

Reverie sets out on a quest to reach the legendary, treasure-filled Edel Garden. Unbeknownst to many, she is a rare and powerful Edel known as Shichikouhouji. Her unique abilities attract numerous villains, each determined to capture her for their own gain.

"Mars Daybreak" first premiered on TV Tokyo on September 23, 2003. Set in a futuristic era, the series imagines a transformed Mars that now resembles Earth, teeming with life and vibrant ecosystems.

Although Mars was once a dry world, vast oceans now cover its surface, punctuated by towering mountain peaks. Floating cities host a mix of humans, animals, and advanced machines, all thriving above Mars’ strange new seas.

Mars’ economy initially flourished as water became its most valuable asset and chief export. However, war disrupted trade, devastating the planet's economic stability and forcing its residents to adapt to new hardships.

Amidst these changes, life on Mars grew increasingly difficult, and the oceanic environment shifted dramatically. The story follows Gram River, an orphan who grew up in the slums aboard the ship-cum-city, Adena.

Determined to carve out a better future alongside his friends, Gram’s journey instead leads him into the world of piracy, making him one of Mars’ most notorious outlaws.

Fena: Pirate Princess is a thrilling adventure and fantasy series, blending action with a unique historical setting. The show was directed by Kazuto Nakazawa, Saki Fuji, and Tetsuya Takahashi, and produced by Rui Kuroki.

The anime premiered on August 15, 2021, under the renowned studio Production I.G. The story centers on Fena, a young orphan, who is at the heart of the action and mystery.

Set in the 18th century, the series crafts a world rich in fantasy and alternate history. Fena is raised on an island, trapped with almost no hope of escaping her grim fate.

This dark destiny is forced upon Fena by her captors, who intend to use her as a pawn for the British Empire’s military ambitions.

Also known as Miniskirt Space Pirates, this anime is adapted from a Japanese light novel series written by Yuichi and illustrated by Noriyuki Matsumoto. The series premiered on January 8, 2012, and is available on the Anime Network.

The production was led by Rei and Kenjiro Kawato and directed by Tatsuo Sato. Set in a future where space travel and colonization are commonplace, humanity has expanded its reach into neighboring galaxies, forming new colonies.

Many of these colonies yearn for independence and have started to rebel against the Stellar Alliance Colony Federation. To manage the growing unrest, the government of a colonized planet called Sea of the Morningstar has begun recruiting Space Pirates, legitimizing their actions through official letters.

Amidst these tensions, the Galactic Empire emerges, absorbing the worlds of the Stellar Alliance yet allowing colonies to govern themselves. This shift brings peace to the galaxy, and space pirates gain newfound respect within society, transforming piracy into a lawful profession.

The story centers on Marika Kato, an ordinary high school girl who balances her time in the space club and a part-time job at a cafe. Her life changes dramatically when she learns of her late father—once a space pirate—and chooses to honor his legacy by becoming a ship captain herself, thus embarking on an exciting new journey as a Space Pirate.

"Vandread" is a Japanese anime series directed by Takeshi Mori and written by Atsuhiro Tomioka. It premiered on October 3, 2000. Set in a distant future where humanity has spread across the galaxy, the series explores the consequences of this vast colonization.

In this universe, men and women live on separate planets, leading to a longstanding gender war. The story follows Hibiki Tokai, a third-class laborer, who becomes embroiled in this conflict and finds himself facing formidable female adversaries.

"Queen Emeraldas" is an anime adaptation of the manga series created by Leiji Matsumoto. The story centers around the legendary pirate spaceship known as Queen Emeraldas.

The ship is commanded by the striking and formidable Emeraldas, often referred to as Pirate Queen Emeraldas. Her strength and determination make her one of the most powerful figures in the universe.

The narrative follows Hiroshi Umino, a young boy who stows away on a freighter in hopes of leaving Earth behind. As the ship travels through space, it is suddenly attacked by a group called the Afressians.

The passengers are rescued by a mysterious, intimidating spacecraft. Eventually, they arrive at a desolate frontier planet, evoking a wild west atmosphere. There, Hiroshi befriends an old man and takes up work in a rough-and-tumble bar to prove himself.

Soon after, the planet suffers an attack from the notorious Captain Eldomian. Emeraldas intervenes, showcasing her courage and strength as she defends the planet's inhabitants.

Throughout the series, Emeraldas discusses the legendary 5 Cosmo Dragoons. Hiroshi and his new friend journey to another planet, only to discover its population oppressed by a ruthless cyborg.

When the cyborg takes the life of one of the inhabitants, Emeraldas returns to stand up for the oppressed, ultimately confronting and defeating the menacing foe.

"Cobra The Animation: The Psycho Gun" is an anime series based on Buichi Terasawa's acclaimed Cobra manga. Produced by Guild Project and skillfully animated by Magic Bus, this adaptation brings the thrilling world of space piracy to life under the direction of Terasawa himself.

The story centers around Utopia More, a determined and courageous woman who discovers ancient records that hold the secret to a universal mystery. Her discovery makes her a target of the notorious Pirate Guild, led by the ruthless Gypsy Doc.

In her time of need, Utopia is aided by Cobra, a legendary space pirate renowned for his unique abilities and signature weapon—the custom Psycho Gun. Together, they unite to outmaneuver their enemies and safeguard the powerful secrets Utopia has uncovered.

The duo faces not only Gypsy Doc but also Cobra’s formidable nemesis, Crystal Boy, as both villains attempt to seize the ancient records and use them to control the universe. The stakes are heightened when they encounter Team Furious, a group of heroes with extraordinary powers who entrust Cobra with Utopia’s protection.

Filled with high-stakes battles and daring adventures, this anime delivers an action-packed narrative that fans of pirate-themed stories won’t want to miss.

"Cosmo Warrior Zero," released in 2011, masterfully weaves together adventure, science fiction, and pirate themes. The anime, created by Leiji Matsumoto and directed by Kazuyoshi Yokota, invites viewers into a futuristic world shaped by interstellar conflict.

The narrative centers around the aftermath of a prolonged war between Earth and the Machine Men. Although peace is eventually achieved, it heavily favors the machines, leaving Earth's humans living under their authority.

At the heart of the series is Captain Warius Zero, who serves as the protagonist. Devastated by the loss of his wife and child during the conflict, Zero finds himself with no alternative but to serve Earth's government under Machine Men rule.

Despite his tragic past and personal losses, Captain Zero remains loyal to humanity. He commands a unique ship crewed by both humans and Machine Men, setting out on an extraordinary mission: capturing the enigmatic pirate, Captain Harlock.

This seemingly impossible task challenges Captain Zero’s beliefs and abilities. Throughout his mission, he comes to admire Harlock, recognizing the pirate's convictions and courage, and even expresses his respect for him.

Their encounter becomes a turning point, especially when Harlock faces attacks from civilians and Zero steps in to restore order. This evolving relationship sparks new revelations and threatens the uneasy peace between Earth and the Machine Men, setting the stage for renewed chaos.

"Harlock Saga: The Ring of the Nibelung" is a six-part mini-series inspired by the classic opera "Das Rheingold." This adaptation reimagines the legendary tale with a focus on pirates, especially the iconic Captain Harlock. Premiering in 1999, the series draws its narrative from the mythic stories surrounding Rheingold.

Rheingold is a mythical, immensely powerful metal coveted by the gods of Valhalla. It is said that whoever possesses the Rheingold gains unparalleled power, even rivaling that of the gods themselves.

The plot then centers on Nibelheim, once a servant to the gods of Valhalla, who repeatedly attempted to challenge their authority. After failing, he initiates a rebellion to overthrow the gods’ dominance.

Leading this rebellion is Alberich, a ruthless and relentless figure determined to secure the Rheingold for himself. His singular ambition drives him to eliminate any obstacle in his path.

Alberich’s sister, Miime, is fearful of his actions and motivations. Now serving with Captain Harlock and his crew, she warns them about Alberich’s dangerous intentions and the threat he poses.

Captain Harlock and his loyal crew embark on a daring mission to confront Alberich and foil his plans, fighting not only to protect the gods but also to ensure the safety of the universe’s inhabitants.

Captain Harlock emerges as a romantic hero—a steadfast space pirate with a fiercely independent spirit. His philosophy is rooted in protecting others, and he fights both for the sake of those in need and for his deeply held beliefs.

Every battle Harlock faces is not only for the greater good but is also a personal quest to uphold the values that define him.

"Coyote Ragtime Show" is a dynamic Japanese anime directed by Takuya Nonaka, blending the adventure and science fiction genres. Animated by the renowned studio Ufotable, it made its debut in February 2007, quickly capturing the imagination of fans.

The story centers on a lively band of space fugitives in pursuit of a legendary treasure. Central to their quest is the enigmatic King Bruce, a notorious space pirate whose name is revered across the galaxy.

Tragically, King Bruce was killed by Madame Marciano, the powerful leader of a feared criminal guild. The quest soon shifts to Bruce's daughter, Franca, who is the key to inheriting an immense fortune—nearly 10 billion space dollars.

The treasure lies stashed in an intricate custom vault, concealed on the planet Graceland. However, Graceland faces imminent danger, as it's teetering on the brink of civil war with just one week before the president of the Milky Way Federation threatens to destroy the planet.

Amid the chaos, a notorious space pirate known as Mister joins the race. Mister is infamous for his rebellious spirit and is determined to aid Franca in securing her inheritance, striving to outmaneuver Madame Marciano, her squad of assassins, and even the relentless detective Angelina.

Mister, a master strategist, shines under pressure. He’s recognized for his iconic phrase: "Let's get this party started," delivered with cool confidence no matter how dire the circumstances become.

Franca, who witnessed her father's death, is remarkably mature for her age. Not only is she resourceful and talented in the kitchen, but she remains cautious, always suspecting that those around her—including Mister—might be using her, even as she stays focused on the treasure that is rightfully hers.

Also known as Stellar Buster Mito, this Japanese anime series premiered on January 4, 1999. Directed by Takashi Watanabe and written by Hidefumi Kimura with Fumihiko Shimo, it quickly captured the attention of sci-fi and adventure fans.

The story centers on a tiny but fearless space pirate named Mito, whose battles with the Galactic Police Force are anything but ordinary. Alongside galaxy-spanning adventures, the series explores her complex relationship with her half-human son and the dangers they face together.

The main character, Aoi, is a typical yet beautiful teenager whose mother happens to be the infamous space pirate, Mito. Despite being one of the most notorious criminals in the galaxy, Mito's courage and resourcefulness always put her ahead of her pursuers.

Mito is a three-foot-tall alien who, although she appears childlike, has the demeanor and responsibilities of an adult. The plot thickens when the Galactic Patrol pursues her all the way to Earth, upping the stakes for both mother and son.

Aoi, who is 15 years old, sees his world turned upside down once he learns about his mother's secret identity. While he is generally reserved, Aoi's relationship with his bold and daring mother brings out unexpected sides of his character.

In a surprising twist, Aoi undergoes a life-altering transformation at the end of the first season, adding another intriguing layer to his journey.

Sol Bianca: The Legacy is an anime that came for the first time on 24 September 1999. It is based on a manga series with the same name, Sol Bianca.

It came under the direction of Katsuhito Akiyama with the association of AIC. OVA is a ship that serves as a home as well as an interstellar headquarters. It is a headquarters for all the female notorious pirates who are present in the anime.

The series is also related to finding the ultimate treasure which is called the Gnosis. This Gnosis is under the hands of Emperor Batros who is considered a very brutal ruler present on the planet.

He is executing all his enemies. It is all happening because of his military occupation that is going on the neighboring planet called Uno. The story focuses on a spacecraft called Sol Bianca.

It is a detailed spacecraft that requires time as well as keyframing. Coming to the character, April Bikirk is the leader who is a skilled pilot and an exceptional marksman.

She is the officer of the Sol Bianca and a very honorable person who always tries to help others.

Angle Links or Angels of the Stars is an anime that was produced by Sunrise. It aired in Japan on Wowow television networks from 7 April 1999 to 30 June 1999.

It is one of the spin-offs of a manga called Outlaw Star that was created by Takehiko Ito. The story is related to the 16-year-old girl who serves as the protagonist, Meifon Li.

She is one of the heads of a corporation that is dedicated to saving some companies. The companies are related to outer space and they transport pirates to outer space for free.

It is the last wish of a grandfather to fulfill the corporation as well as the company. When the series goes further and deals with a lot of things then the protagonist got to know about the secret of her grandfather as well as the reason why he wished all these things for her.

Coming to Meifon Li then she is the leader of a pirate fighting service which is called Angel Links. She is a very excited character as well as a very romantic teenager who takes her job very seriously.

When it comes to her relaxation then it can be seen only when she is not on duty or on any mission. She is an expert in martial arts as well as swordsmanship.

It is a television anime that is based on a book by Hobby Japan. It was produced by ARMS and directed by Kinji Yoshimoto. The whole plot of this anime revolves around a tournament which is called Queen's Blade.

This tournament is held once every 4 years so that natives can choose their Queen. The story happens in a continent where a tournament is very famous called Queen's Blade.

This tournament determined the one who is capable of becoming a queen and the one who is most beautiful and powerful. It happens in the capital called Gainos where a lot of fighters from different parts of the world travel to the capital so that they can defeat the current Queen named Aldra.

The main focus of the story is Leina who is the real heiress and also the one who is capable of becoming the next Queen. She travels to the capital and faces a lot of warriors who are also competing in this tournament.