How to Find Pirate Shipwrecks in OSRS

Dec-11-2025 PST Category: Runescape

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), discovering hidden treasures and exploring shipwrecks is an exciting and rewarding part of the game. One of the more intriguing ways to find loot in the game is through Pirate Shipwrecks, which are scattered throughout the map. The shipwrecks are often linked to treasure trails, dangerous enemies, or mysterious lore. But how can you locate them? What rewards can you expect, and what are the key steps for successful exploration?

 

In this article, we'll go over how to find Pirate Shipwrecks in OSRS, the mechanics behind them, and how to make the most of your shipwreck hunting experience.

 

1. What are Pirate Shipwrecks?

 

Pirate Shipwrecks are remnants of old pirate vessels that have crashed or sunk along the coasts of Gielinor. These wrecks are a feature of OSRS's treasure trail system and can be linked to a series of different in-game mechanics, quests, and activities. They typically provide players with items such as treasure chest rewards, valuable clues, or valuable resources like OSRS gold, pirate-themed items, and occasionally more.

 

While pirate-themed content has always been a part of OSRS lore, it is in the Pirate's Treasure and Clue Scroll systems where Pirate Shipwrecks become most relevant. Pirate shipwrecks are often found while solving various puzzle-related tasks or uncovering hidden treasure maps that lead to the locations of shipwrecks across the map.

 

2. Shipwreck Locations

 

There are several locations in OSRS where you can find pirate shipwrecks. These areas are usually coastal and off the beaten path, requiring keen exploration to uncover.

 

Here are some of the most notable pirate shipwreck locations:

 

Shipwreck on the Karamja Shore

 

One of the most famous pirate shipwrecks is located on the south coast of Karamja, particularly near the Karamja Volcano. This area is known for its dangerous tropical setting, complete with aggressive monsters like the Jungle Demon. The shipwreck itself is an interesting part of the area's lore, as it is tied to quests such as Pirate's Treasure and Shilo Village.

 

The shipwreck is also close to the Karamja Volcano, which is home to both a quest and potential treasure-related rewards. To reach the wreck, you'll need to travel through the Karamja jungle, which can be a treacherous journey without the right gear.

 

Shipwreck on the Fossil Island Coast

 

Fossil Island, a popular area for high-level players and for those completing the Bone Voyage quest, has a few scattered pirate shipwrecks on its coast. These shipwrecks are tied to certain reward-related quests, such as The Forsaken Tower or The Hunt for the Great Pirate. You may need specific items to enter this area or advanced quest completion to access certain wrecks on the island.

 

The Corsair Cove Shipwrecks

 

Corsair Cove, located to the south of the Pirate's Hideout, is another prominent area that features pirate shipwrecks. The Cove itself has a series of coastal wrecks, some of which are specifically related to treasure trails, clue scrolls, or quests such as The Pirate's Treasure. The shipwrecks here may contain pirate-themed loot, including a unique set of treasures related to the Pirate's Treasure questline.

 

Shipwrecks Near the Wilderness

 

If you venture into the dangerous territory of the Wilderness, you might come across a pirate shipwreck or two. These wrecks often house dangerous monsters or other high-level content that rewards players with valuable items. The Wilderness wrecks are not the most common, but they provide a challenge for those looking to push the limits of their adventure.

 

The Shipwreck on Mos Le'Harmless

 

Mos Le'Harmless is the home of the Pirates' Hideout and is filled with pirates and the shipwrecks of failed expeditions. The area features a variety of quests that guide you to these wrecks, with a mix of danger, exploration, and reward. The wreck on Mos Le'Harmless is linked to The Pirate's Treasure, and completing the related quests will give you access to some of the best loot in the game, including pirate-themed gear.

 

3. Treasure Trails and Pirate Shipwrecks

 

Pirate shipwrecks are most commonly found when you're completing clue scrolls in OSRS. Clue scrolls are a great way to discover shipwrecks, as they often lead to hidden treasures and pirate-themed locations. The steps for solving clue scrolls often involve solving riddles or following clues to uncover hidden items.

 

How Do Clue Scrolls Work?

 

Clue scrolls can be found from monsters, treasure chests, or other in-game activities. Once you have one, you'll have to solve clues that can either be anagrams, riddles, map coordinates, or item-based tasks. Some clue scrolls will lead you directly to pirate shipwrecks, and others will require you to collect specific items.

 

Once you arrive at the location hinted at in the clue scroll, you may encounter a pirate shipwreck. These wrecks can have a variety of rewards such as gold, pirate-themed items, treasure maps, or other clues.

 

4. Exploring Pirate Shipwrecks: What to Expect

 

When you arrive at a pirate shipwreck, you may find different types of loot and challenges. These wrecks may contain chests with useful items such as pirate hats, pirate swords, treasure maps, and coins. In some cases, you may even find a variety of dangerous monsters guarding the wreck.

 

Here are a few things you can expect when you explore pirate shipwrecks:

 

Monsters: Some shipwrecks may have aggressive monsters like pirate ghosts, sea serpents, or jungle demons that need to be fought or avoided.

 

Clue Scroll Rewards: Some wrecks provide direct clues for your next step in a clue scroll series.

 

Loot Chests: You might find treasure chests containing items like pirate hats, pirate swords, and cheap RuneScape gold.

 

Quest-Related Items: Certain wrecks provide essential items needed to complete quests like Pirate's Treasure or The Forsaken Tower.

 

5. Tips for Finding Pirate Shipwrecks

 

Finding pirate shipwrecks can be an exciting and rewarding challenge, but it requires preparation and perseverance. Here are some tips to improve your chances of success:

 

Use Maps and Coordinates: If you're following a clue scroll, make sure to use the provided maps and coordinates carefully. Some clue scrolls lead you directly to shipwrecks on the map.

 

Bring Combat Gear: Many shipwrecks are guarded by aggressive monsters, so be prepared with strong combat gear, food, and potions.

 

Complete Related Quests: Some shipwrecks require specific quests to be completed. Make sure to check the requirements of any quests linked to shipwrecks.

 

Utilize the Official Wiki and Community Guides: The OSRS community is filled with valuable resources to help you find shipwrecks, including detailed maps, guides, and walkthroughs.

 

Conclusion

 

Finding pirate shipwrecks in Old School RuneScape can be a thrilling adventure filled with exploration, treasure, and danger. Whether you're completing clue scrolls, diving into pirate-themed quests, or simply exploring the coastlines of Gielinor, there are plenty of shipwrecks to uncover. By following clues, gearing up for potential combat, and utilizing community resources, you can successfully locate pirate shipwrecks and reap the rewards that await.