Full Day Exuma Swimming Pigs – Group Boat Tour From Nassau

Full Day Exuma Swimming Pigs – Group Boat Tour From Nassau

Imagine a day filled with swimming pigs, friendly nurse sharks, colorful local wildlife, and breathtaking scenery—all packed into an 8-hour adventure starting right from Nassau. For $489 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive way to experience the best of the Exuma Cays, including wildlife encounters, historic sights, and relaxing beach time. Led by knowledgeable guides (often with small groups of just 15 travelers), it’s an engaging mix of adventure and relaxation that appeals to travelers eager for authentic Bahamian experiences.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the close encounters with wildlife—especially feeding wild iguanas and swimming with nurse sharks—and the chance to visit the iconic swimming pigs. These moments are genuinely memorable because they combine the natural beauty of the islands with interactive wildlife experiences. Plus, the included Bahamian lunch provides a tasty break amidst the day’s activities.

One possible consideration is the intensity of the schedule—with multiple stops packed into a single day, you’ll want to be comfortable with a fairly active pace and some early mornings. But for those who love a full day of adventure, it’s well worth the effort. This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, scenic vistas, and immersive, fun-filled days over a relaxing beach-only experience.

If you’re looking for a dynamic, all-in-one day that blends wildlife, history, and stunning scenery, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for those who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with iguanas and nurse sharks, creating unforgettable moments.
• Iconic Attractions: Meet the swimming pigs on Pig Beach, a highlight for many travelers.
• Historical Sights: Explore Pablo Escobar’s sunken plane wreck—an interesting and unusual stop.
• Beautiful Scenery: Visit the Exuma Sand Bar and pristine beaches for relaxing and photos.
• Tasty Local Lunch: Enjoy a buffet-style meal at Black Point Yacht Club, soaking in local flavors.
• Efficient Schedule: Covers multiple stops in one day, perfect for those wanting diverse experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Full Day Exuma Tour

From Nassau to the Exuma Cays: A Scenic Start

Your adventure begins early, with the tour departing at 8:00 am from Elizabeth on Bay in Nassau. The journey to the Exuma Cays is part of the fun—expect a scenic boat ride that hints at the stunning vistas ahead. The boat itself is typically small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. This means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to chat with guides and fellow travelers, making the experience richer.

Allen Cay: Meeting the Ancient Rock Iguanas

Your first stop is Allen Cay, a favorite for wildlife lovers. Here, you’ll see magnificent, ancient rock iguanas—tame and unbothered by visitors, they’re a treat to observe up close. The tour emphasizes that these are free to roam without disturbance, making it a responsible way to interact with wildlife. Expect around 30 minutes here, a good amount of time for photos and perhaps some quiet moments watching these prehistoric-looking creatures.

Reviews highlight that Allen Cay is a peaceful spot with friendly local birds, enhancing the natural feel. One traveler remarked, “We loved watching the iguanas basking in the sun—such a strange, fascinating sight.” It’s a chance to connect with the island’s unique fauna without feeling rushed.

Norman’s Cay: A Glimpse into History

Next, the boat heads to Norman’s Cay, famous for the wreck of Pablo Escobar’s plane. The wreck is visible and accessible, allowing visitors to explore or simply marvel at the submerged relic. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers a peek into the island’s intriguing past. If you’re into history or just love a good photo of a sunken plane, you’ll find this stop worthwhile.

While not explicitly praised in reviews, the wreck adds a layer of intrigue and a sense of adventure, making it a memorable part of the day.

Compass Cay: Swimmers’ Paradise with Nurse Sharks

A highlight for many, Compass Cay is renowned for friendly nurse sharks that are surprisingly gentle. You’re encouraged to get in the water and swim among these creatures, which is both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking if you’re not comfortable with marine life. Expect about 45 minutes here—plenty of time for a swim and some photos.

Reviews praise the experience, with one saying, “It was surreal to swim with Nurse Sharks—totally non-aggressive and curious about us.” The guides tend to make everyone feel safe and comfortable, making this a safe, memorable adventure for families and solo travelers alike.

Pig Beach: The Star of the Day

No trip to Exuma would be complete without meeting the famous swimming pigs. At Pig Beach, you’re free to walk, paddle, or even swim among the roaming pigs and piglets. The tour allocates about 40 minutes here, plenty of time to snap photos, feed the pigs, or just enjoy watching these adorable animals in their natural environment.

Travelers often mention how much fun it is to hold the pigs’ snouts or see them paddle around. “They’re surprisingly clean and friendly,” one person noted. Keep in mind, the pigs are wild and free-ranging, so don’t expect a zoo-like experience—more like a charming, spontaneous encounter with island residents.

Lunch at Black Point Yacht Club

Around midday, the tour takes a break for a Bahamian-style buffet at Black Point Yacht Club. The one-hour stop offers a variety of local dishes and is included in the price, providing good value. It’s a chance to relax, refuel, and chat with fellow travelers about the morning’s highlights.

Guests often compliment the quality of the food, saying it’s hearty and flavorful. The setting is casual and laid-back, adding to the local charm.

Exuma Sand Bar: The Final Relaxation

The last stop features the famous sand bars, where the boat anchors in the middle of the ocean. You’re encouraged to swim, relax on the soft sands, or just float in the clear water. The tranquility of these remote spots is striking, and many find it a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning.

About 30 minutes are spent here, making it an excellent wind-down to a full day. Reviewers have noted that these spots offer some of the clearest waters and stunning views, making it a hit for beach lovers and photo enthusiasts.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour departs bright and early at 8:00 am from Nassau and returns in the late afternoon. You’ll be on a small boat, which is perfect for a more personal experience but may mean limited space and comfort compared to larger vessels. The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

The cost of $489 includes a buffet lunch at Black Point and both of the sandbar stops. Entrance to the wildlife sites and wrecks is free, but it’s worth noting that the tour is dependent on good weather—bad weather might cause cancellations or rescheduling, with options for full refunds.

Booking about 17 days in advance is typical, indicating that the tour is popular but still accessible for most travelers. The tour’s timing, from 8:00 am to about 4:00 pm, demands a full-day commitment but promises a rich variety of sights and experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see the real Bahamas beyond the hotel beaches. Families, groups, and solo travelers looking for a diverse, active day will find this trip satisfying. It’s less suitable if you prefer a relaxed, beach-only day or have mobility issues—since there’s a fair amount of walking, swimming, and boat time.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour offers a robust introduction to the Exuma Cays’ natural beauty, wildlife, and history, all packed into one unforgettable day. For $489, you’re not only paying for the sights, but for the stories, interactions, and memories you’ll carry home. Expect stunning views, up-close wildlife encounters, and a taste of local culture through the included lunch.

While the day’s pace is lively, it’s well-suited for those with a sense of adventure and a curiosity for genuine Bahamian life. The small group size and guided commentary make it a personable, safe, and engaging way to see some of the Bahamas’ most famous sights.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:00 am from Elizabeth on Bay in Nassau.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, returning around 4:00 pm.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all stops, a buffet lunch at Black Point, and the wildlife encounters (iguanas, nurse sharks, pigs, wreck visit, sandbars). No additional fees for entry or activities are listed.

How many travelers will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 people, making it more intimate.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops like swimming with nurse sharks or pigs are family-friendly, but consider your child’s comfort with water and wildlife.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and camera. Practical clothing for water activities is recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the stops walkable or swim-focused?
Most stops involve a little walking and swimming, especially at Allen Cay, Pig Beach, and the sandbars.

Is there a lot of free time?
The schedule is packed, but enough time at each stop for photos and enjoying the scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This guided tour strikes a balance between adventure, wildlife, history, and relaxation—sure to give you a memorable taste of the Bahamas. Whether it’s the playful pigs or the graceful nurse sharks, you’ll leave with stories to tell and photos to cherish.