Nassau: Self-Drive Speedboat Ride and Pig Swimming Encounter

Nassau: Self-Drive Speedboat Ride and Pig Swimming Encounter

This 2-hour tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxed fun in the waters surrounding Nassau, Bahamas. You’ll start by steering a self-drive speedboat, feeling the wind and spray as you navigate through the calm and sometimes choppy ocean. Then, you’ll arrive at Anthol Island, famous for its friendly pigs that love to swim and take food from visitors. Along the way, there’s time for snorkeling, so you can peek beneath the surface at coral and tropical fish, and soak up the authentic Bahamian atmosphere.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines adrenaline with animal encounters in a setting that’s both picturesque and intimate. The opportunity to drive your own boat is a highlight — it’s a rare chance to feel like a true explorer, not just a passenger. Plus, being able to spend time with the pigs on a quiet beach with minimal crowds makes it feel very exclusive.

One thing to consider before booking is the length of the walk from the cruise port to the meeting point, which can be a bit of a trek if you’re not prepared. Also, if the weather turns windy, the boat ride might be less smooth, so it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, animal lovers, or families who want a unique, active experience. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy driving boats and have a sense of humor about pig antics. If you’re after a relaxed beach day, this might be a bit more energetic than some prefer, but it’s well worth the effort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Self-Drive Thrill: You get to steer your own speedboat, adding a personal touch to your Bahamas adventure.
• Animal Encounters: Swim and feed the iconic ocean pigs in a peaceful setting away from crowds.
• Scenic Snorkeling: Enjoy a quick snorkel to see the underwater life just off the island.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Relax on a quiet, natural beach with minimal commercial development.
• Flexible Booking & Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Value for Money: The tour’s combination of activities and personalized experience offers excellent value.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Out: Meeting and Setting Off

The tour begins at a designated meeting point that might vary depending on your booking choice. The coordinates are 25.075809478759766, -77.32532501220703, which is conveniently accessible from Nassau. Many reviews highlight how easy it is to find the spot, often just a short walk from the cruise port or hotel areas.

Once there, you’ll be greeted by the friendly crew, who make the check-in process smooth and straightforward. We liked that the booking is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund. This flexibility is a real plus for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain schedules.

The Speedboat Ride: From Nassau to Anthol Island

The highlight here is the self-drive speedboat, which seats two people comfortably. The guides are attentive, and many reviews commend their professionalism and friendliness, noting guides like Serena and Andy who go above and beyond to make everyone feel safe and entertained.

Driving your own boat through Nassau’s waters is a thrill. The route takes you past iconic sights like the Atlantis resort and some luxurious homes, giving you a glimpse into the local landscape. As you zip across the water, you’ll enjoy views of the azure ocean, bright blue skies, and maybe even a splash or two if the weather is a bit windy.

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The Island Stop: Feeding and Swimming with Pigs

Upon arrival at Anthol Island, you’ll find the famous swimming pigs eagerly awaiting snacks. Feeding these pigs with fruit like melon is a highlight, as many reviewers mention how friendly and adorable the pigs are—though some note that the pigs can be a little aggressive when food is involved.

The beach is relatively quiet, especially early in the day, which offers a more authentic and less crowded experience. One reviewer described it as “being the only ones there,” which makes the encounter feel very private. You’ll get plenty of time — roughly 45 minutes according to reviews — to relax, feed the pigs, and take photos.

Snorkeling and Other Highlights

After hanging out with the pigs, you’ll have a chance to snorkel. The water is often described as clear and inviting, perfect for a quick swim amid coral formations and tropical fish. Some guests report seeing sea turtles and eagle rays during their swim, making this a nice bonus to the day’s activities.

Return Journey and Additional Sights

On the way back, the tour may include a visit to Atlantis’s foundations or a quick stop to observe local fishermen at work, as some reviews note. The guides often go out of their way to make the return trip informative and scenic.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about two hours, making it a manageable addition to a day in Nassau. It’s suitable for most ages, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions, due to the physical nature of the activity and the boat ride.

Transportation back to your hotel or cruise ship is usually included or arranged by the guides, although some reviews mention that additional arrangements might be necessary if you’re not staying nearby.

Authenticity and Value

This experience stands out for its personalized, small-group approach. Limiting participants to ten ensures everyone gets attention and ample time to enjoy the activities without feeling rushed. Many travelers mention how it feels like a VIP experience, especially when arriving early and having the island mostly to themselves.

The value for money is often highlighted — considering you get to drive your own boat, swim with pigs, and snorkel — all in a well-organized, friendly environment. Reviews repeatedly emphasize how much fun the guides are and how smoothly everything runs.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Driving your own speedboat in Nassau’s beautiful waters is a rare opportunity. The chance to interact directly with the swimming pigs—not just watch them from a distance—is a genuine highlight, and many reviewers say it’s the best pig experience they’ve had.

Potential Drawbacks and Tips

Be mindful that the walk from the cruise port to the meeting point can be lengthy if you’re arriving on a cruise, so plan accordingly. Weather can impact the boat ride—winds can make the trip less smooth or delay the activity. Bring waterproof cases for your electronics, as the water and pig encounters can get a bit messy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adventure seekers and animal lovers who enjoy a hands-on experience. It’s perfect for families with older children or couples looking for a fun, active day. If you’re seeking a quiet, relaxing beach day without much action or animal interaction, this might be a bit too lively. However, if you want a combination of thrill, wildlife, and scenic beauty — this checks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This activity combines exhilaration, authenticity, and unique animal encounters in a way few other Nassau excursions do. It’s a smart choice for those who want to drive their own boat, explore a quiet island paradise, and interact with one of the Bahamas’ most famous residents—the swimming pigs.

The guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the day not just fun but also reassuring. With good value and a small-group setting, it offers a personalized experience that’s both memorable and well-organized.

If you’re craving adventure with a dash of animal fun and scenic beauty, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to dress for getting wet, bring your camera, and prepare for a day full of smiles and splashes.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s perfect for families with older children who can handle the boat ride and being around animals. Younger kids might find the boat ride a bit bumpy or the pigs a bit too energetic.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is around 2 hours, including the boat ride, pig time, and snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof cases for your electronics, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for drinks or snacks on the island.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Not always — be prepared to walk or arrange your own transport if arriving from a cruise or hotel. Some reviews note that the walk can be a bit of a stretch from the cruise port.

Can I drive the boat if I have no experience?
Yes. The tour is designed for self-driving, and guides are attentive to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Many reviews mention how much fun it is to steer the boat.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour takes place rain or shine, but windy days might affect the boat ride or pig interactions. Guides will keep safety in mind and may reschedule or modify activities if needed.

This adventure in Nassau offers a genuinely engaging mix of speed, wildlife, and scenic discovery. It’s a unique way to see more of the Bahamas’ waters while enjoying some up-close animal encounters you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby