Pirate ship amusement rides, also known as Viking ship rides or swinging ship rides, are classic attractions in amusement parks, theme parks, playgrounds, and commercial plazas.
One of the most common questions we get from clients is: What are the main parts of a pirate ship ride?
Here’s a full breakdown from Carnee Rides, a pirate ship manufacturer with over 20 years of production experience.

1. Main Support Frame
The support frame is the backbone of the pirate ship ride. It carries the entire weight and swing force of the equipment.
It mainly consists of:
- Columns: Four high-strength steel columns with built-in inspection ladders.
- A-frame: Made of beams, support pillars, and reinforcement plates, ensuring stability during swinging.
- Crossbeam: Connects the columns and the A-frame to strengthen the structure.
2. Hull Section
The hull is the core area where passengers sit and enjoy the ride.
It is made up of:
- Bow: Fiberglass decorations in pirate, dragon, or Viking themes.
- Body: Steel frame with welded iron plates, painted and decorated on the surface.
- Stern: Designed to match the bow for a streamlined shape.
- المقاعد: Comfortable seating with safety bars and seatbelts.
👉 Pirate ship rides are available in multiple sizes, typically 16, 24, 36, or 40 seats, depending on your space and investment. See More: Pirate Ship Ride For Sale


3. Hanger & Suspension System
The hanger connects the hull with the support frame, allowing smooth swinging.
Key parts include:
- Hanger ears (cut from a thick steel plate and welded to the beam)
- Hanger shafts
- Hanger arms (truss structure made of channel and square steel)
- Bearings, connecting plates, and tie rods
These components ensure the hull swings steadily around its pivot point.
4. Drive & Braking System
This is the heart of the pirate ship amusement ride, controlling its movement and safety.
نظام القيادة
- Motor or hydraulic cylinder
- Drive wheel
- Drive cradle
- Drive base
The system provides power and friction for the hull to swing back and forth.
Braking System
- Brake wheel
- Brake device
- Push cylinder
The braking system guarantees controlled speed and emergency stopping when necessary.


5. Platform & Foundation
Foundation: Reinforced concrete foundation to ensure long-term stability.
Platform: Steel structure platform for safe and easy passenger access.
6. Electrical Control System
The “brain” of the pirate ship amusement ride is usually controlled by a PLC system.
It includes:
- Control cabinet and distribution box
- Lighting and sound system
- Emergency buttons and interlock devices
The operator can start, stop, and adjust speed through the control console, ensuring safe operation. The driver controlled speed and emergency stopping when necessary.

FAQ – Pirate Ship Ride Questions
Q1: How many seats does a pirate ship ride have?
Common models include 16, 24, 36, and 40 seats. Custom options available.
Q2: How is passenger safety guaranteed?
Equipped with safety bars, seatbelts, and emergency stop systems. Every unit is strictly tested before delivery.
👉 Read more: Safety Measures of Pirate Ship Rides
Q3: How much space is needed for a pirate ship ride?
Mini pirate ships require only a few hundred square meters, while larger models need over 1,000 m².
Q4: Can the pirate ship be customized?
Yes. Themes include pirate style, Viking design, dragon head, or cartoon decoration.
Q5: Is installation complicated?
Not at all. Carnee Rides provides full installation guidance, including site preparation → foundation work → assembly → electrical setup → safety testing.
Q6: What is the part of a pirate ship with the wheel called?
That’s the decorative steering wheel أو helm, usually for theming.
Q7: How does a pirate ship ride work?
It swings back and forth through a motor or hydraulic drive, combined with a braking and control system.
👉 Read more: How Does The Pirate Ship Ride Work?
For more detailed answers:
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الخاتمة
The pirate ship amusement ride structure is mainly composed of six key parts: the support frame, hull, hanger system, drive & braking system, platform & foundation, and the electrical control system.
With its stable structure, classic gameplay, and high passenger appeal, the pirate ship ride is a must-have attraction for amusement parks worldwide.
If you’re looking for a profitable, crowd-attracting, and durable amusement ride, the pirate ship is the perfect choice.