Rose Island Private Boat Tour Departing Nassau

A Closer Look at the Rose Island Private Boat Tour Departing Nassau

If you’re heading to New Providence Island and looking for a flexible, personalized day on the water, this Rose Island Private Boat Tour offers a compelling mix of snorkeling, relaxing beaches, and unique experiences like swimming with turtles or pigs. For $1,600 per group—up to 13 people—you get about 4 hours of private adventure, guided by Thunderbird Sea Adventures. The guides, who pride themselves on excellent customer service, make sure your trip can be tailored to your group’s interests.

What we love about this tour is its customizable nature and the chance to snorkel at two different reefs, plus enjoy some downtime on a private beach—a rare treat in the Bahamas. The second highlight is the option to swim with turtles at Green Cay, an experience many travelers find unforgettable. The private aspect means fewer crowds and more personal attention—ideal for families or small groups seeking an intimate day on the water.

As for considerations, the cost might seem steep for some, especially since the Pig Show incurs an additional fee of $50 per person. Plus, the weather dependency is worth noting, as poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. This tour works best for those who value customization, privacy, and authentic experiences rather than a one-size-fits-all cruise.

This experience is perfect for families, small groups, or couples who want to enjoy the Bahamas with flexibility and comfort. If you’re someone who appreciates snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and personalized service, you’re likely to find this tour a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Tailored Experience: The tour can be customized to suit your group’s interests and needs.
• Private Group: Only your party participates, ensuring a more intimate adventure.
• Multiple Stops: Snorkel at two reefs, relax on a private beach, and enjoy sightseeing around Nassau Harbour.
• Additional Adventures: Optional swimming with pigs at Green Cay for $50 per person.
• Inclusive Snacks & Drinks: Soda, bottled water, snacks, and local alcohol are included.
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with full refunds if canceled.

Exploring the Full Scope of the Tour

Starting Off on Rose Island

Your day begins with a boat ride from Nassau, but the real magic starts once you arrive at Rose Island. The island itself is a peaceful retreat with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll have the chance to snorkel at Pearl Island and Rose Island Reef, both of which promise vibrant marine life. We loved the way the snorkel gear was provided, making it easy to jump right in, and the reefs appeared lively, with a variety of fish and coral.

The snorkeling stops are a highlight. They appeal especially to travelers eager to see underwater life without the hassle of organizing their own gear or boat. Many reviews mention how easy it was to get into the water and how colorful the reefs were. One traveler shared, “The snorkeling was the best part—so many fish and coral! It made us feel like we were in an aquarium.”

Relaxing at a Private Beach

After snorkeling, the boat anchors at a private beach where you can lounge, swim, or just soak in the sun while sipping your included sodas and rum punch. The beach is maintained well, with loungers and some shade, providing a perfect spot to unwind. If you’re traveling with kids or just want some downtime, this is a laid-back setting away from busy tourist spots.

Swimming with Turtles at Green Cay

Next, the tour takes you to Green Cay, where swimming with turtles is the main attraction. It’s an experience that many travelers find genuinely special. While the price is $50 per person and not included, the chance to be close to these gentle creatures is worth considering if you love wildlife encounters. Travelers have expressed satisfaction, with one noting, “It was surreal to swim with turtles in their natural habitat—definitely a memory for life.”

Tour of Gilligans Island and Nassau Harbour

The boat then gives you a scenic tour of Gilligans Island — not the TV show, but a small, scenic island with thatched roofs and great photo opportunities. The Nassau Harbour tour offers a glimpse of the busy port, with ships and boats coming and going, adding a touch of local bustle to your day.

Optional Pig Encounter

The Swimming with Pigs Show is an optional add-on, costing $50 per person. While it’s not included in the base price, many travelers consider it a fun, unique experience. The pigs are known for their swimming skills and are quite the crowd-pleaser. Keep in mind that if you want to include this, you’ll need to reserve and pay separately.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers plenty of value with sodas, bottled water, snacks, local beer, and rum punch included, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the trip. You’ll also have use of snorkeling equipment, pool noodles, and mats—no need to bring your own gear unless you prefer to.

However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something after the tour. The pig swim is an additional activity at $50 per person, which many find adds an extra layer of fun but does mean extra expense.

The Experience in Practice

Many reviews highlight the great customer service and the flexibility the guides offer. The private setting makes the experience less rushed and more tailored, allowing for spontaneous swims or extra snorkel stops based on your interest. The weather can influence the day — if rain or rough seas spoil the plans, rescheduling is usually an option, or you can opt for a full refund if canceled due to poor weather.

The value for a private, customizable four-hour adventure** is considerable, especially if you’re traveling with a group. The chance to snorkel at two reefs, relax on a private beach, and possibly swim with turtles or pigs offers diverse memories packed into a single day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for small groups or families who want a personalized experience rather than a crowd. It’s ideal if you enjoy snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and relaxed beach time. Those who prefer structured, guided activities with the option to customize will appreciate the attentive service. Budget-conscious travelers might find the cost high, but the private nature and inclusions provide clear value.

FAQs

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $1,600 per group for up to 13 people, covering most activities, snacks, and drinks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time for snorkeling, beach lounging, and sightseeing.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, stops and activities can be tailored to your group’s interests.

What is included in the price?
Sodas, bottled water, snacks, local beer, rum punch, and snorkeling equipment are included.

Is there an optional activity?
Yes, swimming with pigs at Green Cay costs $50 per person, and admission is not included.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect the tour; cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with full refunds or rescheduling offered.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Who is this tour ideal for?
Small groups, families, or couples who value privacy, flexible timing, and wildlife experiences.

How do I book or contact the tour operator?
You can reach Thunderbird Sea Adventures at +12428102309 or via email at [email protected].

In the end, this private boat tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed, and customizable day on the water. While it requires a bit of a budget, the level of privacy, personalized service, and variety of stops make it a strong choice for those wanting a memorable, tailored Bahamas experience. Perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility, this tour gives you a taste of what makes this part of the world so special—without the crowds.