Exuma Day Away – Original Swimming Pigs Excursion

If you’re dreaming of a day in the Bahamas filled with wildlife encounters, crystal-clear waters, and island hopping, the Exuma Day Away tour is worth considering. Priced at $438 per person, this 8.5-hour adventure takes you from Nassau to some of the most iconic spots in the Exumas archipelago, including the legendary Pig Beach, shark swims, and iguanas in their natural habitat. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable crew members, you’ll get a taste of authentic Bahamian scenery and wildlife interaction, all while enjoying a delicious lunch and comfortable round-trip transportation from Nassau.

What we really love about this tour is the combination of multiple island stops in one day — it’s a fantastic way to see a lot without sacrificing quality. The shark encounter at Compass Cay is especially popular, as it offers a safe, open-water interaction with these sleek predators, rated by many as the top stop. The feeding iguanas at Great Guana Cay adds a dash of local flavor, giving you a real sense of the Bahamas’ wildlife. And of course, the swimming pigs are the highlight for most, providing a quirky, memorable experience that feels straight out of a postcard.

A potential consideration is the long boat rides between stops, which can be bumpy and tiring, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed pace. The tour’s group size can also swell to up to 36 travelers, so those seeking a small, intimate experience might find it a bit crowded. Still, for those eager to pack in as much adventure as possible and are comfortable on a boat, this trip offers exceptional value.

This tour suits first-time visitors to Nassau eager for a full day of wildlife and water adventures, families with kids over 3 years, and adventure lovers who don’t mind a busy schedule and some boat motion. It’s a great way to experience the best of the Bahamas in a single, action-packed day.

Key Points

• Diverse stops: From swimming pigs to sharks and iguanas, the tour covers a wide range of wildlife encounters.
• Waterfront views: You’ll see the stunning Exuma Cays from the water, making for picture-perfect moments.
• All-inclusive experience: Lunch, bottled water, and activity fees are covered, making it straightforward to relax and enjoy.
• Long boat rides: Expect about 1-1.5 hours of travel between stops, which can be bumpy but also part of the adventure.
• Guided by friendly locals: Many reviews praise the crew’s knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Ideal for first-timers: This tour offers a broad introduction to the Bahamas’ highlights in one day.

An In-Depth Look: What Makes This Tour Special

The Exuma Day Away tour offers a full immersion into some of the Bahamas’ most celebrated attractions, packaged into a single day. The itinerary is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time and see as much as possible, but it’s not without its nuances. Here’s a closer look at each stop and what you can expect.

Starting Point: Montagu Beach, Nassau

Your adventure begins early at Montagu Beach, where the crew will greet you with a friendly attitude. The tour departs at 8:00 am, giving you a full day ahead. Transportation from your hotel (if arranged) ensures a smooth start, and with a mobile ticket, the process is simple and quick. Since the tour is popular and books on average 8 days in advance, planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak season.

Great Guana Cay: Iguanals in the Wild

Your first stop is at Great Guana Cay, a protected wildlife reserve home to Bahamian rock iguanas. The 15-minute visit allows you to observe these shy creatures in their natural environment. Many reviews highlight the feeding of iguanas as a fun, interactive part of the day. One reviewer noted, “feeding iguanas in the wild was a highlight,” which emphasizes the authenticity of this experience. It’s a brief stop, but it sets the tone for appreciating the local wildlife.

Compass Cay: Swim with Sharks

Next, you’ll head to Compass Cay for the much-celebrated shark swim experience. Many travelers rate this as their top stop, with 30 minutes dedicated to shallow and deep water interactions. The friendly nurse sharks are used to humans and pose no threat, making it an accessible thrill for most. The reviews consistently mention how fun and safe this encounter is, with one reviewer saying, “Holding nurse sharks like puppies was the best.” The opportunity to see these animals up close in their natural environment adds a meaningful dimension to your trip.

Pig Beach: The Main Event

Of course, no trip to the Bahamas is complete without meeting the famous swimming pigs at Big Major Cay. The 45-minute stop here is the most talked-about part of the tour. The pigs are incredibly friendly, and many reviewers describe the experience as quirky and unforgettable. One person remarked, “the pigs knew not to mess around if you talk with authority,” which hints at the pigs’ smart and confident nature. This stop appeals to those seeking a playful, offbeat adventure and is often the photo highlight of the day.

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park: Sand Bar and Scenic Views

After the pigs, your boat will drift over a shifting sand bar—a natural wonder that appears at low tide. The captain selects a sandbar, offering an ever-changing landscape during your journey. The 20-minute stop provides great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs amid the turquoise waters. The reviews describe the scenery as breathtaking, with many guests capturing stunning shots.

The Pablo Escobar Sunken Plane Wreck

Finally, you’ll view the famous plane wreck off Norman’s Cay, a relic from the drug-running era that has become a popular photo spot. While not a stop where you can explore extensively, seeing the wreck from the boat provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history.

Lunch at Black Point Yacht Club

Included in the tour is a delicious Bahamian-style buffet lunch at Black Point Yacht Club. Many reviewers rave about the quality and local flavor of the food, describing it as tasty and authentic. This provides a well-earned break and a chance to relax amid the busy day.

Practical Details for Travelers

The tour is designed for ease and comfort, with round-trip transportation from Nassau included, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. The group size is capped at 36 to balance a lively atmosphere with enough space on the boat. Travelers should expect about 8.5 hours total, with most of that time spent on the water.

Bring essentials such as towels and sunblock — although water and snacks are provided, you’ll want to hydrate and protect yourself from the sun. The tour operates in good weather conditions, but last-minute cancellations can happen if conditions are unsafe, as one reviewer experienced.

While the boat ride can be rough and bumpy, especially during long stretches of transit, many guests find the adventure exciting rather than uncomfortable. The crew is praised for their friendliness and professionalism, always prioritizing safety.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and adventure lovers eager to tick off multiple bucket-list attractions in one day. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable on a boat and looking for a full immersion into Bahamian wildlife and scenery. However, those seeking a quiet, leisurely day or small-group intimacy may want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, the Exuma Day Away tour offers exceptional value for a day packed with wildlife encounters, stunning views, and local flavor. The combination of swimming pigs, shark swims, and iguana feeding** makes it a unique experience that captures the essence of the Bahamas’ playful spirit and natural beauty.

While the long boat rides and larger group size might not suit everyone, the overall experience is lively, well-organized, and full of memorable moments. The included lunch and water remove some of the hassle, and the positive reviews speak to the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the stops.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines wildlife, scenic views, and fun, this tour offers a fantastic introduction to the Exumas and Nassau. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager for a lively, action-packed day and who enjoy being on the water.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish, including boat travel, stops, and lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Montagu Beach in Nassau at 8:00 am and returns to the same location at the end of the day.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers round-trip transportation, a delicious Bahamian lunch, water, bottled drinks, admission fees for iguana feeding, and activities like swimming pigs and shark encounters.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children as young as 3 years old can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunblock, and extra layers due to potential wind on the boat and changing weather. Swimwear is recommended, especially for the water activities.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
Since the boat rides can be bumpy and lengthy, those prone to seasickness should take precautions or consider alternative trips.

How big are the tour groups?
A maximum of 36 travelers participate, which balances a lively atmosphere with enough space on the boat.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations due to weather are handled with full refunds or rescheduling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather can lead to cancellations for safety reasons. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Exuma Day Away tour combines the thrill of wildlife encounters, stunning water views, and lively boat rides into one packed day. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic, fun, and memorable taste of the Bahamas. If you’re seeking a lively adventure that includes snorkeling, wildlife, and island scenery, this tour is a solid choice. Just prepare for a full-on day of excitement, and you’ll leave with stories worth sharing.