Athol Island Swimming Pigs Half-Day Boat Tour with Lunch

Planning a trip to Nassau and craving a mix of snorkeling, island fun, and adorable pig encounters? This 4-hour boat tour offers a lively itinerary through some of the Bahamas’ most iconic spots, all for $350 per person. Led by friendly guides like Pedro, this tour packs a punch with snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, a nostalgic stop at Gilligan’s Island, and an unforgettable swim with the famous swimming pigs on Rose Island. It also includes a taste of local Bahamas cuisine, making it a well-rounded adventure.

Two things we particularly love? First, the diverse stops—from vibrant coral reefs to turtle encounters and pig cuddles, you get a genuine taste of Bahamas magic. Second, the personalized experience with the yacht just for your group, giving you more space and flexibility.

However, one point to consider is the weather dependency — rough seas can alter or cancel parts of the trip, as some reviews mention. This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure and a love for marine life and quirky island experiences. If you enjoy a full immersion into Bahamas’ coastal charm, this trip is likely to satisfy.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: Includes snorkeling, island visits, and pig encounters.
• Authentic Experiences: Interact with turtles, colorful fish, and playful pigs.
• Personalized Service: Yacht for your group with friendly guides like Pedro.
• Food & Culture: Enjoy a traditional Bahamian lunch of Peas ‘n’ Rice, fried chicken, and more.
• Weather Factor: Seas can be rough, affecting the schedule or availability.
• Great for: Travelers seeking a balanced mix of marine life, playful animals, and local cuisine in a flexible, fun setting.

Visiting Pearl Island: Snorkeling Among Colorful Fish

Your adventure begins at Pearl Island, where snorkeling in its coral reef promises an underwater spectacle. Expect to see vividly colored fish darting through the reef, making it a perfect spot for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. With admission included, this stop offers about 30 minutes to explore the underwater world, which, thanks to the guides’ tips, feels more like a personalized dive than a hurried stop.

This part of the tour scores high on visual appeal—the clarity of the water and the vibrant marine life are unforgettable. Reviewers have raved about the beauty of the underwater scenery, noting that the experience exceeded their expectations.

Green Cay: Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

Next, you’ll cruise to Green Cay, a sanctuary for sea turtles. Here, you can choose to snorkel or simply watch from the boat—whichever suits your comfort level. The admission is free, and the duration is about an hour, giving enough time for a relaxed encounter with these gentle creatures.

Guests often mention how kids love watching the turtles, making it an ideal family activity. However, some travelers have noted that rough seas can make snorkeling less accessible on certain days, so it’s good to be flexible.

Gilligan’s Island: Nostalgic Fun for All Ages

A quick 30-minute stop takes you to Gilligan’s Island, a playful nod to TV fans. You’ll have the chance to spot Ginger the Movie Star and the Professor, adding a touch of Hollywood nostalgia. It’s a fun, lighthearted break that appeals to families and those looking for quirky photo opportunities.

Reviews highlight that this stop is more about fun than serious sightseeing but adds a memorable, humorous touch to the day. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs, take some photos, and enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe.

Athol Island: The Heart of the Adventure

The highlight for many is the 1 hour 30 minutes spent at Athol Island, a secluded cay just 15 minutes from Nassau. This stop is where the swimming pigs come into view, along with opportunities to snuggle piglets and snap photos. The pigs are the star here, and the experience is often described as “absolutely adorable” by travelers, with some mentioning that feeding the pigs and watching them approach is the tour’s most cherished moment.

The admission included means no hidden costs for this part, and the relaxed pace allows for plenty of pig cuddling and photo ops. One reviewer shared how the crew went out of their way to make the pig encounter a dream come true, even running a last-minute extra trip to accommodate requests.

The Lunch: Tasting Bahamas’ Flavors

After all the water activities, you’ll settle into a lunch of Bahamian favorites—Peas ‘n’ Rice, Mac ‘N’ Cheese, fried Chicken wings, and fresh Salad. Be sure to request lunch in advance, as it’s not automatically prepared, ensuring the meal is fresh and tailored for your group.

Guests have described the food as delicious, noting that it’s a generous and authentic taste of the Bahamas. The meal offers good value, especially after a busy morning of snorkeling and animal encounters. It’s a chance to relax and swap stories while enjoying hearty, flavorful dishes.

The Overall Experience: Benefits and Considerations

This tour’s biggest draw is its variety—a bit of everything that makes Nassau special: marine life, iconic island stops, friendly animals, and flavorful local cuisine. The personal yacht experience ensures a comfortable and intimate setting, often highlighted in reviews that describe exceptional service from guides like Pedro and Andrew.

One notable advantage is the flexibility—you can choose to snorkel or just observe, and the guides are responsive to your preferences. Plus, the admission tickets are included at each stop, simplifying planning and budgeting.

On the flip side, weather can be unpredictable, and rough seas may impact snorkeling opportunities or even cancel some stops. Some guests have expressed disappointment when seas prevented certain activities, so it’s wise to stay flexible and prepared for possible schedule changes.

This tour suits families, animal lovers, and snorkelers eager for a well-rounded Bahamas experience. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a personal touch and want to maximize their time on the water and island stops without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a fun-filled, authentic Bahamas outing, this half-day boat tour offers plenty of memorable moments. From snorkeling amidst vibrant fish to cuddling piglets on secluded islands, it captures the essence of what makes Nassau so special: marine beauty, playful animals, and warm local flavors. The guides’ friendly service and the chance for personalized experience make it a worthwhile choice, especially if you value diversity in activities and good value for money.

If you’re a family or a couple wanting a taste of everything—nature, animals, culture, and cuisine—this tour delivers with a relaxed pace and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Just remember, the weather can influence your day, so keep an open mind and be ready for a little adventure, rain or shine.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, which makes it convenient to start your Bahamas adventure without worrying about transportation.

How long does each stop last?
Pearl Island snorkeling is about 30 minutes, Green Cay is around an hour, Gilligan’s Island is 30 minutes, and Athol Island with pigs is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Do I need to request lunch beforehand?
Yes, lunch isn’t automatically prepared; you should specifically request it in advance to enjoy the Bahamian dishes like Peas ‘n’ Rice and fried chicken.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Expect colorful fish, sea turtles, and marine creatures typical of coral reefs, making it ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially since kids enjoy the turtle snorkeling and pig cuddling. The relaxed pace and fun stops make it family-friendly.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If seas are rough or conditions unsafe, the trip may be canceled or modified, with options for a different date or a full refund.

This Bahamas boat tour combines the best of marine discovery, island fun, and local cuisine. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a genuine taste of Nassau’s coastal charm, offering a memorable day for all ages.