🏴☠️⚓️ Pirates on the High Seas
Ahoy crew! Sail through our sprint's waves, celebrate the loot we gathered, spot the storms we weathered, and plot the next course for smoother voyages ahead.
Template Columns
💨 Favorable Winds
Share the breezes that propelled our progress and boosted momentum.
Base column: Wind⚓️ Anchors Down
Identify the heavy anchors that slowed us down or held us back.
Base column: Anchors🗺️ Charted Courses
Define the next steps and actions to steer us toward smoother seas.
Base column: ActionsAbout this template
A nautical-themed sprint retrospective that celebrates wins, uncovers blockers, and creates actionable next steps.
When to use this template
Use when the team enjoys a fun, visual format that highlights momentum and impediments while planning future work.
How to facilitate
Set the scene by welcoming the crew, reminding the sprint goal, and explaining the three columns: Favorable Winds, Anchors Down, and Charted Courses
Ask each team member to write brief notes on virtual sticky notes for Favorable Winds, focusing on what helped the sprint move forward
Collect the notes, group similar items, and discuss each Favorable Wind, acknowledging successes and reinforcing positive behaviors
Repeat the process for Anchors Down, encouraging honest but constructive input about obstacles, then prioritize the top three anchors to address
Move to Charted Courses, turn the highest‑priority anchors into concrete action items, assign owners, and set clear deadlines before closing the retro
Pro Tips
Use a timer for each column discussion to keep energy high and prevent over‑analysis
Encourage the use of emojis or pirate‑themed icons on sticky notes to keep the mood light and inclusive
After the retro, capture the action items in a shared board and review progress in the next stand‑up
FAQ
What if some team members are hesitant to share negative feedback in Anchors Down?
Normalize constructive criticism by framing anchors as opportunities for improvement and assure anonymity by allowing private note submission before group discussion.
How do we prevent the retro from turning into a blame game?
Focus the conversation on processes and outcomes, not individuals, and use the ‘anchor’ metaphor to discuss systemic issues rather than personal faults.
Can we use this format for a short 2‑week sprint?
Yes, simply reduce the time per column and limit the number of action items to the most critical three, keeping the overall session within 30 minutes.
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At a glance
- Duration
45–60 min
- Team Size
5-12 people
- Columns
3 columns
- Base Format
Wind, Anchors, Actions
Tags
Ready to get started?
Use this template to run your next retrospective