Pirate Republic Brewing Company: A Bastion of Bahamian History

Garrrrrrrrvey the Pirate

“Ahoy! Pass me pint a grog, matey.”

“Aye, aye, lemme go fetch it for ya on yer poopdeck.”

“Arrr. Go smartly or you’ll be tossed to sea!”

How’d I do? Were you able to conjure up a few images of snaggletoothed buccaneers, peg-legged tyrants or exotic parrots? How about that grog? Could you taste a frosty drink upon your lips?

You can learn about the rich history of pirates and sip a sweet pint of brew at Pirate Republic Brewing Company, a recently-opened establishment sure to become one of the most interesting places of interest in Nassau, The Bahamas.

Pirate Republic Brewing Company in Nassau, The Bahamas

Their Beers

“Nassau was a haven for some of the more notorious pirates that landed in the area in the 1700s,” says Susan Holowesko Larson, CEO of Pirate Republic Brewing, or PRB. “They practically settled here because The Bahamas were very close to the major shipping lanes of the day,” she continues. “Also our topography–comprised of tiny islands and shallow reefs–made it possible to hide ships and escape from authorities.”

Discover this huge part of Bahamian history and hear tall tales of unsavory characters such as Blackbeard and Calico Jack during one of PRB’s mid afternoon tours, conducted almost daily. Within crow’s nest view of the cruise terminal on Woodes Rogers Walk, the visit also showcases the dramatic Pirate Art of Antonius Roberts and a pint of beer from PRB, the first and only craft brewery in The Bahamas.

Entrance to the 125-year-Old Warehouse

The Brewers and Susan in Front of Their Brand-New Fermenters

Antonius Roberts and His Pirate Art

Arrrr

“This is a great opportunity to tell the story of The Bahamas,” says Stephen Holowesko, Susan’s brother and founder and president of Pirate Republic Brewing Company. “We want this to be a living, breathing celebration of Bahamian culture,” he says of the business he created in the 125-year-old space he helped to lovingly restore. How fitting that the Holoweskos, a prominent Bahamian family whose ancestors first arrived on the island in the 1750s, transform an old, Colonial-styled brick building into a tasting room par excellence. Breathe in the heady scent of the abaco pine trimmings and accents from the original flooring as you visit this authentic establishment.

You can bet your booty that you’ll like it so much you’ll be back once the sun sets over the yardarm for a PRB signature beer cocktail, a few bites of conch salad and some local music. Shiver me timbers, it’s a Bahamian cultural hub indeed. And the best part is they’re just getting the party started. Arrrr!

Ahhh, The Bahamas

On a Personal Note

It’s rare that I write about an establishment without having been there. In this case, however, I can do it with confidence because I have known the Holowesko family for many years and have observed that they are people of great refinement and taste. I’ve been delighted to be the ski instructor for many of the family members for a number of years and yes, they seem to be in love with Telluride Ski Resort. Stephen, the dad and also the driving force behind Pirate Republic Brewing Company, has shown himself to be a true aficionado of craft brews and a proponent of having a good time overall. I look forward to their next visit to T-ride, particularly since I’m sure they will come armed with samples of PRB, something that will be greatly appreciated in the land of PBR.