Why New Providence Island is Perfect for Full-Day Tours
When you think of the Bahamas, pristine beaches, clear waters, and lively culture come to mind. But what makes New Providence Island stand out for full-day tours is its diversity of experiences — from wildlife encounters with swimming pigs and turtles to luxurious private cruises and adventure-packed buggy rides. This island offers enough variety to satisfy just about any traveler, whether you’re after laid-back relaxation or active exploration.
Our list includes everything from small-group boat adventures with local wildlife to private luxury excursions. For example, the Exuma Swimming Pigs Group Boat Tour provides a fun, interactive day with pigs and sharks, while the Private Rose Island Pigs and Turtles Excursion offers an exclusive, more relaxed experience. Whether you want to snorkel among sea turtles or fish in private waters, New Providence has something truly memorable.
Quick Overview
Our top picks cover a variety of full-day adventures: group boat tours to swim with pigs and sharks, luxury private cruises, self-guided buggy rentals, and private shore excursions perfect for cruise passengers. Some tours focus on wildlife encounters, such as swimming pigs and sea turtles, while others offer adventure and exploration—like the Buggy Rental in Nassau. Prices range from $90 to over $2,000, depending on the experience and size of your group. Now, let’s dig into each tour.
1. Exuma Full Day Swimming Pigs Group Boat Tour
This 8-hour tour from Nassau promises a full day immersed in the Bahamas’ most iconic sights. You’ll start with a seaside trip to Allen Cay to see the famous rock iguanas—a close-up of these ancient creatures is a highlight. Next, visit Compass Cay to swim with nurse sharks in their natural habitat, a surprisingly gentle experience. After that, you’ll go to Pig Beach to paddle around with the swimming pigs, which is a bucket-list moment for many. The day includes a buffet lunch at Black Point, featuring local flavors, and plenty of time to swim and relax.
What makes this tour special is its small-group size—capped at six—to ensure personalized attention. Reviewers love how it combines multiple top sights in one seamless day, praising the fun guides and the clear itinerary. It’s ideal for adventurers and animal lovers alike. The cost is $499 per person, making it a premium experience but well worth it for the unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a multi-faceted day exploring the wildlife and iconic sites of the Bahamas with a personal touch.
2. Full-Day Luxury Private Rose Island Pigs and Turtles Excursion
For about $1,950 per group, this 6-hour private cruise offers a luxurious, tailored experience. The boat comfortably seats up to eight, with private facilities, a water shower, and plenty of storage for food and drinks. The tour explores neighboring islands such as Blue Lagoon, Athol Island, and Pearl Island, where you can snorkel and see colorful reef fish. A key highlight is visiting Green Cay to see sea turtles and relaxing on a private, uncrowded beach.
Reviewers rave about the professionalism and knowledge of the crew, emphasizing the personalized service. It’s especially suited for travelers craving privacy, comfort, and exclusivity. The tour’s high price reflects the luxury experience, but the combination of private transportation, snorkeling, and sightseeing makes it a great value for those seeking a more refined day.
Bottom Line: Best for couples, families, or small groups wanting a luxury, private adventure with exclusive access to Bahamas sights.
3. Full Day Buggy Rental in Nassau
If you prefer exploring at your own pace, this 24-hour buggy rental for up to 4 people is a practical, flexible choice. For $400, you get a 4-seater vehicle that allows you to chart your own course around Nassau and beyond. The rental includes a map of recommended stops and emergency support, so you can hit the highlights like Love Beach, Clifton Heritage Park, and local neighborhoods.
This experience is ideal for independent travelers comfortable with navigation and looking for a cost-effective way to see the island without a guide. It’s especially attractive if you want to venture off the beaten path or visit specific sights not included in guided tours. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for adults and teens who can handle driving, as Nassau’s roads can be busy.
Bottom Line: Great for adventure-minded travelers who want the freedom to explore Nassau on their own.
4. Private Full Day Cruise Tour in Rose Island with Snorkeling
This 6-hour private cruise costs about $1,150 per group and is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience. The tour includes snorkeling among reefs and sea turtles, and private beach time away from crowds. You can customize the itinerary, focusing on swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. The boat departs from Nassau, heading to Rose Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches.
Travelers love the flexibility of this trip, and the personalized service makes it ideal for families or couples looking for peace and quiet. The inclusion of snorkel gear and the option for private beach hours ensures a memorable day. The price reflects the intimate setting and customizable nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a tailored, tranquil escape with snorkeling and beach time.
5. Bahamas Unlimited Full Day Water Sports Package At Junkanoo Beach
For just $90 per person, this 8-hour beach pass offers unlimited access to water sports at Junkanoo Beach. Activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and pedal boat rides. Staff are available to assist, and safety equipment like life jackets is provided. It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to spend a day in the sun, especially if you love being active in the water.
Reviewers mention how helpful and friendly the staff are, and many enjoy relaxing on the beach after trying out various watersports. It’s ideal for families or groups who want flexible, no-fuss fun. Since the pass includes all-day access, you can switch from paddling to snorkeling or simply lounge in the sand.
Bottom Line: Best for budget travelers and water sport enthusiasts wanting a day of flexible fun.
6. Full Day All Inclusive Sail & Snorkel with Turtles in Rose Island
This 8-hour tour at about $193 per person offers a full all-inclusive package: barbecue lunch, open bar, snorkeling, and sea turtle viewing. The boat takes you to Rose Island, where you can snorkel reefs and relax on the uninhabited beach. The barbecue with ribs and chicken is highly praised, and the snorkeling is considered some of the best in the area.
Reviews are mixed—some mention the bar’s selection and the beautiful scenery, but the 2-star rating suggests some inconsistency in experience. Still, it’s a good choice for relaxed travelers wanting everything included, especially with food and drinks. Be aware that this tour might attract more party-focused crowds.
Bottom Line: Suitable for relaxers and social groups seeking a full-day, all-inclusive experience.
$193.05 per person
7. Private 8 Hour (Full Day) Fishing Charter in Nassau
If catching big fish is your goal, this full-day private fishing charter is for you. Accommodating up to 10 people, the boat is equipped with air conditioning, a bathroom, and professional gear. The itinerary involves trolling for fish, snorkeling, and swimming with sea turtles. You can customize your trip and even include onboard catering for an additional fee.
While there are no reviews yet, the privacy and flexibility appeal to anglers or groups of friends looking for a personalized fishing experience. The cost is high but reflects the customization and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for fishing enthusiasts who want a full day on a private boat with options to snorkel and relax.
$2,050.00 per group (up to 10)
8. Exclusive Full Day Trip Adventure from Nassau
This 6-hour private tour costs $1,850 per group and explores Rose Island. It includes swimming pigs, turtle snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing on an uncrowded beach. The tour features welcome drinks and free time to enjoy the scenery and activities at your own pace.
Travelers enjoy the personalized itinerary and private boat, making it perfect for small groups seeking exclusivity. The focus on relaxation and interaction with wildlife makes it a unique experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small, private groups wanting a completely customizable day with wildlife encounters.
$1,850.00 per group (up to 8)
9. Private Full Day Tour in Nassau
This 8-hour private tour for around $442.68 per person takes you beyond typical Nassau sights. It includes stops at Ardastra Gardens, Arawak Cay, Love Beach, and Clifton Heritage Park. You’ll see native wildlife, explore cultural sites, and enjoy beach time.
The tour’s flexibility and personalized approach make it a solid choice for those wanting to see Nassau’s highlights without a big crowd. It’s especially good for history and nature lovers.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers wanting a tailored, culturally rich experience with a mix of wildlife and local flavor.
$442.68 per person
10. Full Day Exuma Swimming Pigs – Group Boat Tour From Nassau
This 8-hour tour is a full-on adventure through the Exumas. Highlights include feeding iguanas at Allen Cay, exploring the wreck of Pablo Escobar’s plane, and swimming with nurse sharks and pigs. The tour provides multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch at Black Point.
Rated at no reviews yet, but its comprehensive itinerary makes it a top choice for explorers. The $489 per person price reflects a full day packed with wildlife and historic sights.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure seekers wanting a wide-ranging day in the Exuma Cays.
$489.00 per person
11. Full Day Private Shore Tour in Nassau from Nassau Cruise Port
Designed for cruise passengers, this 7-hour private tour costs about $536.39 per person. It hits Nassau’s key sites, including Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle, and Clifton Heritage Park, with flexibility for custom stops. The tour includes transportation directly from the cruise port.
Perfect if you need a condensed, personalized experience that covers Nassau’s essentials and avoids the crowds. The focus on local landmarks and cultural sites makes it ideal for history and culture enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Excellent for cruise travelers wanting an efficient, private exploration.
$536.39 per person
12. Private Full-Day Shore Excursion in Nassau from Cruise Port
This 7-hour private tour offers a personalized itinerary for cruise passengers. Highlights include Queen’s Staircase, Fort Charlotte, and Clifton Heritage, along with stops at Yamacraw Beach and Palm Cay. It’s flexible, with custom stops based on your interests.
Ideal for travelers wanting to maximize their port time with a tailored experience. The price point is higher, but the private guide and customized stops are worth it.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise visitors who want a personalized, efficient day exploring Nassau.
$509.93 per person
13. Guided 8 HR Full Day Fishing / Snorkel Private Charter Trip 40′ Mega Bite
This full-day private fishing and snorkeling trip offers a personalized experience for up to 6 people. The boat is equipped with top gear, water, and ice, and the itinerary includes deep-sea fishing, reef snorkeling, and swimming with turtles. The trip is fully customizable, allowing you to tailor activities to your preferences.
While no reviews are available, the flexibility and gear quality make this an attractive option for fishing and snorkeling enthusiasts. The $1,450 price reflects its exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking a fully customizable day of fishing, snorkeling, and wildlife interaction.
$1,450.00 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting the right full-day experience in New Providence, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If wildlife encounters like swimming pigs and sea turtles are your priority, the Exuma group boat tour or private Rose Island excursions are excellent choices. For those wanting more independence, the Buggy Rental offers freedom to explore on your own schedule.
Cruisers should focus on private shore excursions (Tour #11) or Tour #12 for tailored experiences. If relaxing with food and drinks is your thing, the All-Inclusive Sail & Snorkel (Tour #6) might suit you best.
Remember to book early, especially during peak travel seasons, and confirm the details about group size, inclusions, and cancellation policies to ensure your dream day in the Bahamas is smooth.
Final Thoughts
From wildlife adventures to luxury private cruises, New Providence offers an impressive range of full-day tours. For a wildly fun day with pigs and sharks, the Exuma Full Day Swimming Pigs Group Boat Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer comfort and privacy, the Rose Island private cruise or exclusive private trip will meet your needs.
For active explorers, the Buggy Rental is a flexible, fun way to see Nassau at your own pace. Whatever your style, booking early will help secure your spot on these sought-after experiences so you can enjoy a memorable day in the Bahamas.