With a staggering 2,862 pieces, this set is no small feat. Don’t let promotional images deceive you—Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship is substantial, thanks to its impressive sail design. Standing 25 inches tall, stretching 25 inches in length, and measuring 9 inches wide, this ship demands ample space on your display shelf.

Accompanying this formidable ship is a crew of eight minifigures. Inside the box, you’ll find Jack Sparrow, Will Turner, Elizabeth Swan, Captain Barbossa, Mr. Gibbs, Anamaria, Marty, and Mr. Cotton (along with Mr. Cotton’s trusty parrot). While I wish Ragetti and Pintel were included—considering their significance in all three films—I understand the decision, as that iconic fake eyeball would likely vanish from my table in no time.

This movie-accurate replica is a surefire conversation starter when guests visit. I’ve got a collection of impressive LEGO sets on display, but this one truly captivates. My visitors were even more enthralled when I demonstrated that Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship is not just for show. Two dials activate hidden cannons on both sides, and spinning the wheel controls the rudder. While the rudder’s movement is satisfying, the grand reveal of the 16 hidden cannons, poised to obliterate the Interceptor or Endeavor, is the standout feature for me.

This movie-accurate replica is a real conversation piece when guests come over. I have some pretty impressive LEGO sets on my shelves, but this was the one that had my company gawking. My guests were even more fascinated when I showed them Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship is functional. Two dials twist to reveal cannons on the port and starboard sides, while spinning the wheel results in movement of the rudder. While the rudder movement is super satisfying, the cannon reveal is the big wow moment for me. Hidden behind small doors, 16 cannons come from out of nowhere, prepared to blow apart the Interceptor or Endeavor.

The deck can be lifted off, where you’ll find the Captain’s Quarters. Just like in “The Curse of the Black Pearl,” the quarters are adorned with candles, the famous green apple, goblets, and maps. Treasure is also hidden in the hull of the ship, where you can store the Aztec gold pieces that come with the set. Also detachable is a small rowboat, which we’ve seen countless times in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films. It’s the perfect spot for Captain Jack’s compass, a flat 1×1 which will have you on track to Tortuga in no time.

One of the most impressive parts of the design for me, however, is the ability to tilt the ship so it’s leaning on its two supports. It immediately transported me to the final battle in “Pirates of Caribbean: At World’s End” as the Black Pearl and Flying Dutchman dance around the massive whirlpool. Since the LEGO ship is bottom heavy, you don’t have to worry about the ship falling over: you just need the shelf space.

As someone who has conquered LEGO’s Rivendell, Avengers Tower, and Milky Way Galaxy sets, I didn’t think any new build would top those experiences. While those three rank in my top five, there is something about Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship that earns its ranks among them. I feel like I’m choosing my favorite between four children at this point, but depending on the day and who is throwing a tantrum, this LEGO Black Pearl might be number one.

A lot of the allure here lies in the ship’s sails. Tattered and black as night, the sails of the LEGO set are really a sight to behold. Despite how complicated and delicate they might look, I have to say they were remarkably easy to put together. The masts are 90% ready by the time you open the bag, with minimal building to get them together. You do have to assemble the yards from scratch, but that was also a relatively easy construction. The sails are held by rubber rope cords, which occasionally caused some frustration for me because they like to bend a certain way. Once you learn how they prefer to lean, the rest of the construction comes easy.

While Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship is an amazing LEGO set for fans of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films, I think fellow AFOL’s who have never seen the movies would still enjoy this build. It is a stunning shelf piece and I’d love to see LEGO release the Flying Dutchman one day to accompany it. You can buy Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship now at LEGO’s website for $379.99. At the time of this review, there is a delay of approximately two months on shipment, but don’t let that deter you.