Captain's Orders

A lively game of quick thinking where only the best sailors keep up with the Captain's calls!

Moderate Break (2-5 mins)
All Ages
Games and Sports

Instructions

1. Choose Your Captain

Pick one person to be the leader, known as the "Captain." This person will call out the orders and keep everyone on their toes.

2. Learn the Commands

Make sure everyone knows the actions for the Captain’s commands. Here are some classic examples, but feel free to create your own! If students are new to the game, start with a handful and add more as they become more familiar.

Man Overboard: Drop to the floor into a planking position.
Captain’s Coming: Stand at attention and salute.
Starboard/Port: Run to the designated side of the room.
Scrub the Deck: Squat and pretend to scrub the floor.
Climb the Rigging: Stand tall and mimic climbing up ropes.
Man the Lifeboats: Form groups of three. Two players form a "boat" by holding hands, and the third sits in the middle, pretending to row.
Find North: Pair into groups of three and point in the same direction.
Titanic: In pairs, one person kneels while holding their partner’s waist as they spread their arms like the iconic scene from Titanic.

3. Start the Game

The Captain calls out commands randomly. Players must respond quickly and correctly to stay in the game. Anyone who hesitates or performs the wrong action is out!