One of the most iconic missions in Super Mario 64 is Red Coins on the Ship Afloat, a challenge that combines exploration, platforming, and a bit of puzzle-solving. This star mission is located in the Jolly Roger Bay course and requires players to collect eight red coins hidden across the level. It’s not just about grabbing coins it’s about navigating underwater areas, finding clever routes, and timing your jumps properly. Each red coin collected brings you one step closer to unlocking a Power Star, essential for progressing through the game. Whether you’re playing the original version on Nintendo 64 or a modern port, this mission remains a nostalgic and engaging challenge for Mario fans.
Location and Objective
Jolly Roger Bay Course
Red Coins on the Ship Afloat is the third mission in Jolly Roger Bay, which is one of the water-based levels in Super Mario 64. The level can be accessed by jumping into the painting inside Peach’s Castle. Unlike earlier missions in the course, this one emphasizes coin collection rather than defeating enemies or reaching a specific location.
Your main objective is to locate and collect all eight red coins scattered throughout the bay. Once you collect the last red coin, a Power Star will appear, ready for you to grab. Completing this mission brings you one step closer to unlocking more areas in the castle.
Preparation Before Starting
Make the Ship Float
Before you begin searching for coins, it’s important to note that the ship in the bay must be afloat. In earlier missions, the ship is underwater, and you must raise it to the surface. If you’re playing this mission after completing Plunder in the Sunken Ship, the ship will already be above water. If not, you’ll need to revisit and complete that earlier star to make this mission easier.
Controls and Camera Tips
Good camera control is essential in this mission. Use the C-buttons or right analog stick to adjust your view, especially when platforming near cliffs or jumping from posts. Precision is key when it comes to finding and reaching the red coins in this area.
Red Coin Locations
Where to Find Each Coin
Below is a list of all eight red coin locations in Red Coins on the Ship Afloat. While some are in plain sight, others are trickier to access and may require climbing, swimming, or platforming.
- Red Coin #1: Found directly in front of the ship on a platform near the water’s surface. It’s one of the easiest to collect.
- Red Coin #2: Located near the metal poles to the right of the starting point. Use long jumps or precise jumps from pole to pole to reach it.
- Red Coin #3: Hidden under the ship in a clamshell. Wait for the clam to open before grabbing the coin. Be careful not to get bitten.
- Red Coin #4: Found near the Jet Stream area underwater. Swim carefully and watch your oxygen level.
- Red Coin #5: Sitting on the floating wooden platform near the ship. Use the nearby dock to get a good angle for your jump.
- Red Coin #6: Floating above one of the vertical poles near the water. You need to climb the pole to reach the coin.
- Red Coin #7: Located near a treasure chest at the edge of the cavern. Avoid opening unnecessary chests as they can release bubbles that push you back.
- Red Coin #8: On top of the ship itself. Use the back of the ship or climb via nearby platforms to get on deck.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Be Patient with Water Movement
Swimming and water physics can make this mission slightly more challenging. Mario’s movement underwater is slower and less precise, so plan your movements carefully. Avoid swimming too close to obstacles or enemies like clams, which can snap shut quickly.
Climbing and Jumping Strategy
Some of the red coins require precision climbing, especially on poles or platforms. Take your time when lining up jumps. Use crouch and side flip techniques if you need height. Backflipping onto platforms can also help when you’re pressed for space.
Watch Your Health
When swimming, keep an eye on Mario’s oxygen meter. Surfacing replenishes health, so always swim near air pockets or plan to come up for air often. Don’t let Mario take unnecessary damage while attempting to grab coins from underwater sources.
Enemies to Watch Out For
Clams and Eels
Clams appear innocent at first, but they can close suddenly and damage Mario. Wait until they open fully before grabbing coins inside. There is also an eel that may appear near the cavern entrance in earlier missions. If you haven’t completed those yet, be cautious while exploring underwater caves.
Falling Off Platforms
It’s not just enemies that pose a risk. Slipping off floating platforms or poles can cause you to fall back into the water, forcing you to restart your climb. Always double-check your angles before leaping, especially when aiming for tight platforms near the ship.
What Happens After Collecting All Red Coins?
Star Appears on the Ship
Once all eight red coins are collected, a Power Star will spawn on the ship. The exact location is usually on the deck or the mast. You’ll need to make your way back to the ship, if you aren’t already on it, and grab the star to complete the mission. This marks the successful completion of Red Coins on the Ship Afloat.
Save Your Progress
After grabbing the Power Star, don’t forget to save your progress. This ensures your collected star counts toward unlocking future areas and more advanced missions inside Peach’s Castle.
Why This Mission is a Fan Favorite
Great Balance of Challenge and Exploration
This red coin mission is praised by players for blending challenge with exploration. It encourages players to search both the surface and underwater areas of the map. There’s a sense of adventure involved in discovering each coin, especially when they require clever routes or timing.
Rewarding Visual Design
Jolly Roger Bay’s atmosphere, with its serene music and aquatic setting, adds to the charm of the mission. The ship afloat on the bay provides a great visual and mechanical anchor to the task at hand. Watching the star appear above it creates a rewarding conclusion to your efforts.
Red Coins on the Ship Afloat stands as a memorable mission in Super Mario 64, offering the perfect blend of collection, strategy, and platforming. By locating all eight red coins in Jolly Roger Bay, players experience a satisfying challenge that remains enjoyable even years after its release. Understanding the coin locations, using the right movement techniques, and mastering the level layout are key steps to conquering this iconic mission. Whether you’re revisiting the game or playing it for the first time, this mission is a standout moment that perfectly captures the spirit of Mario’s 3D adventures.