Rose Island Private Beach: Swimming with the Pigs

Overview of the Experience

Imagine spending a few hours in the Bahamas, exploring Rose Island’s private beaches, snorkel spots, and playful swimming pigs — all for $139 per person. This tour runs roughly 4 to 5 hours, starting from Nassau’s Margaritaville Marina. The journey includes a lively speedboat ride, visits to Rose Island Reef for snorkeling, a charming stop at Green Cay to see turtles, and a final relaxing session at the exclusive 007 Beach Club on Rose Island.

What really makes this experience stand out is the combination of adventure and leisure. We love how the guides manage to keep everything lively and engaging while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families or groups of friends. The private beach club is a real highlight — isolated from crowds, it offers loungers, hammocks, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for unwinding. Plus, the feeding of friendly pigs in the water is a quirky, memorable activity that many reviews praise.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions can influence your day. The tour is weather-dependent, and rough seas or unexpected changes might mean some activities are altered or canceled. Also, if you’re looking for a more “wild” experience with free-ranging pigs, some reviews mention that the pigs are kept in clean, controlled environments — which is good news for safety but might not meet expectations if you’re dreaming of free-roaming boars.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and animal encounters. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate organized experiences with friendly guides and don’t mind a bit of boat time. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced Bahamian adventure will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Private Beach Access: Exclusive location on Rose Island, away from crowded beaches.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkeling, swimming with pigs, and turtle sanctuary visits.
• All-Inclusive Snacks & Drinks: Hamburgers, hot dogs, soft drinks, and bottled water included.
• Friendly Staff & Guides: Well-reviewed, knowledgeable, and engaging.
• Weather-Dependent: Activities can be affected by weather conditions.
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 travelers for a more intimate experience.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on Your Day Out

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Bahamas on Paradise Island — a well-known spot that’s easy to find and convenient if you’re staying nearby. The tour involves a speedboat ride that’s often described as lively and fun, with many reviews mentioning a “roller coaster” feeling thanks to the waves and music. Expect to hold on tight and enjoy the scenery as your crew whips you across the water.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Rose Island Reef for Snorkeling
The first stop is typically the Rose Island Reef — a colorful underwater world packed with fish, starfish, conchs, and sand dollars. Our guides, like Ray and Shawn, are praised for their clear instructions and helpfulness, making even first-time snorkelers feel comfortable. The reef isn’t huge, but the variety of marine life is enough to keep you entertained. Some reviews note that you might not see a ton of vibrant fish or turtles every time, but the experience is generally enjoyable. Plus, snorkel gear and floats are provided, so no need to bring your own.

Green Cay for Turtle Watching
Next, you’ll visit Green Cay, a sanctuary for sea turtles. Witnessing these gentle creatures glide through the water is a highlight for many travelers. One reviewer shared how excited they were to see about 5-7 turtles and appreciated the guide’s effort in capturing photos — an indication of how attentive and enthusiastic the staff can be.

The Private Rose Island & 007 Beach Club
The final stop is the private beach area on Rose Island, at the 007 Beach Club — a secluded stretch of sand and water. This is where the “off the beaten path” vibe really shines. The beach is equipped with loungers, hammocks, and a covered cabana, providing a perfect spot to relax after the morning’s activities. We loved how peaceful it was compared to the busier public beaches, with only your boat group around.

Feeding the Pigs and Relaxing in Paradise

The moment many look forward to is feeding the pigs. You’ll stand in the water with beef hotdogs in hand, and the friendly pigs will swim over to be fed — a surprisingly charming activity. Several reviews mention the pigs appear well cared for, with some noting they are kept in clean enclosures with personal trainers ensuring their well-being. It’s a quirky experience that makes for incredible photos and stories to tell back home.

Lunch and Refreshments
While floating and lounging, you’ll enjoy a grilled lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers, with chips and unlimited soft drinks or rum punch available. The food is simple but well-regarded for its quality and value. Many reviewers appreciated how the crew kept the drinks flowing and made everyone feel relaxed.

Additional Activities and Tips

There are kayaks and floats available at no extra charge, offering more ways to enjoy the water. Bring a towel and sunscreen — although some mention that you might find it easier to just enjoy the water without needing towels, especially if you plan to spend most of your time floating or feeding pigs.

However, a few travelers warn about sand fleas or bugs, so mosquito or bug spray might be a good idea — especially in the late afternoon.

Returning and Overall Atmosphere

The boat ride back is just as lively as the trip there, with music and smiling faces. Many reviews mention the crew’s fun, friendly attitude and the smooth, well-organized nature of the trip. The crew’s effort in ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe is consistently praised.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $139 per person, you’re getting a well-rounded Bahamian experience. The combination of snorkeling, animal interaction, and exclusive beach access makes it feel like a full-day adventure packed into a half-day trip. The inclusion of snorkel gear, food, and drinks adds to the value, especially considering how many other tours charge extra for these amenities.

Many reviewers note that they were surprised by how much they enjoyed the private setting — no overcrowding, no long lines, just plenty of space to relax and have fun. The friendly guides and safety-conscious approach elevate the experience from just another boat ride to a memorable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families and couples looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect if you want to see sea turtles, feed pigs, and enjoy a private beach without the hassle of a packed public shore. People who appreciate friendly, knowledgeable guides and a laid-back atmosphere will find this tour suits them well.

While it’s suitable for most travelers, those with young children or less confident swimmers will appreciate the provided flotation gear. However, some reviews mention that music and activity levels might not be ideal for very young kids, so that’s worth considering if you’re planning a family trip.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. Snorkeling gear and floats are provided, and the shallow waters at the beach make it accessible for most.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and bug spray if you’re sensitive to bugs. Towels are not provided, but you can leave your belongings on the boat or at the beach.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, but unlimited soft drinks and bottled water are included. Rum punch and exotic cocktails are available for purchase at the beach club.

How long is the entire tour?
The trip lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transportation, activities, and leisure time.

What’s the experience with feeding the pigs?
You’ll stand in the water with beef hotdogs to feed the pigs; they are very friendly and seem well taken care of, according to multiple reviews.

Is the tour crowded?
Group size is limited to 15 travelers, but some reviews mention that tours can feel crowded if overbooked. The vessel comfortably seats up to 30, but safety and comfort are prioritized.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This combined snorkeling, animal encounter, and private beach tour offers a well-balanced taste of the Bahamas’ charm. It’s especially good for travelers who want a fun, relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos, feed adorable pigs, and relax in a stunning setting.

The guides’ attentiveness and the inclusive nature of the trip make it feel like a personalized experience without a hefty price tag. While weather can influence the day, the overall reputation suggests the trip is worth booking, especially if you’re after value, authenticity, and a little bit of island magic.

If you’re after a family-friendly adventure that combines marine life, playful animals, and serene beaches, this tour hits most of those marks. It’s a good pick for those who want a bit of everything in their Bahamas visit — with the bonus of friendly guides and a beautiful setting.

The Sum Up

This tour packs snorkeling, animal interaction, and beach lounging into a single, well-organized package. The private setting at Rose Island, combined with the friendly, professional crew, makes for a memorable day that feels both exclusive and authentic.

It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy organized excursions that include multiple activities without feeling rushed or overcrowded. Families, couples, or solo adventurers seeking a fun, safe, and scenic outing will find plenty to love here.

Despite occasional weather-dependent adjustments, the overall experience is highly praised for its value and the personal touch of guides. If you want a relaxed but exciting taste of the Bahamas with plenty of photo opportunities and animal encounters, this tour is hard to beat.

You Might Like
– Pigs swimming in the water experience
– Snorkeling with colorful fish and turtles
– Relaxing at an exclusive, private beach
– Friendly guides who make safety and fun a priority
– All-inclusive snacks and drinks for added convenience