Nassau: Swimming Pigs, Snorkel and Lunch by Speed Boat
Location: Sandy Cay, Bahamas
Country: Bahamas
Duration: 4 hours
Supplier Rating: 4.7
A quick snapshot of the tour
This lively 4-hour excursion takes you on a fast-paced ride around Nassau’s waters, starting at Carnivale Bahamas on Paradise Island. Led by friendly guides like Mike or Sarah, you’ll visit several iconic spots—namely Rose Island, Gilligan’s Island (Sandy Cay), Green Cay, and a local beach bar for lunch—all aboard a comfortable speedboat. For around $120-150 per person, this experience offers a mix of wildlife sightings, snorkeling, and fun interactions with the famous swimming pigs.
Two things we particularly love are the chance to swim with and feed the pigs—a little piece of island magic—and the stunning views of Nassau harbor, especially when the boat drifts past massive cruise ships. The inclusion of lunch at a relaxed beach bar is a real plus, giving you time to unwind after all the activity.
A possible consideration is the strict timing—the boat departs on time, and latecomers might miss out on parts of the tour. Also, since the tour involves climbing a vertical ladder onto the boat at stops, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.
This trip suits adventure-loving families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to combine sightseeing with hands-on fun in a compact, all-inclusive package.
Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot wild green turtles and swim with pigs for a memorable animal experience.
- Snorkeling Advantage: Explore a lively coral reef teeming with fish, with gear supplied for easy access.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Nassau harbor, cruise ships, and the famous Gilligan’s Island backdrop.
- All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes lunch, snacks, and drinks, making it simple and stress-free.
- Time Management: The itinerary is tightly scheduled, so punctuality is important.
- Weather Flexibility: Full refunds are available if the captain recommends cancellation due to weather, adding a layer of security.
A detailed look at what makes this tour special
For those considering a day with a splash of everything—the wildlife, snorkeling, scenery, and a touch of pop culture—this Nassau speedboat tour hits the mark. We’ll take you through each part, emphasizing what makes each stop worth your time.
Starting Point and First Ride
The meeting point at Carnivale Bahamas is straightforward, with clear instructions and coordinates. From there, the boat’s crew, friendly and professional, provides a brief safety rundown. The ride through Nassau’s harbor is a highlight itself—expect to see grand waterfront homes, bustling boats, and a glimpse of the city’s vibrant life. It’s about a 15-minute ride to the first stop, and the boat’s ample, comfortable seating makes it easy to settle in.
Snorkeling at a Coral Reef
Your first major activity is at a coral reef, just 20 minutes from Nassau. The provided masks, snorkels, and pool noodles make this accessible even for beginners. We loved the way the guides shared interesting facts about the reef, enhancing the experience. The underwater world is lively—fish of all sorts dart around coral formations, and the visibility tends to be quite good, giving you a colorful, lively view beneath the surface. As one reviewer noted, “The snorkeling was fantastic, and the gear was new and comfortable.”
Gilligan’s Island / Sandy Cay
Next up is a quick stop at Sandy Cay, famously known as Gilligan’s Island because of its appearance in the 1960s TV series. The crew shares engaging tidbits about the island’s pop culture history and points out the scenic beauty. Since there isn’t much time here—about 5 minutes—you’ll want to have your camera ready for some quick shots of this iconic spot. It’s a neat photo opp, especially when the boat is framed against the island’s lush greenery and the distant Nassau skyline.
More Great Tours NearbySwimming with Pigs at Rose Island
The highlight for many is the chance to swim with the famous Bahamas pigs. About a 10-minute ride from Sandy Cay, this spot is home to adorable, friendly pigs that love to be fed and cuddled. Guides like Sarah often instruct visitors on how to interact with these curious creatures, who are surprisingly well-trained and eager for snacks. The pigs are the stars here, and many travelers say it’s a “quirky, unforgettable experience.” As one guest put it, “Feeding and swimming with the pigs was adorable and surprisingly calming.”
Time at the Beach Bar
After the pig adventure, the tour takes a break at a laid-back beach bar where a delicious lunch is served. The meal typically includes local Bahamian fare—think fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and refreshing salads. It’s a good opportunity to relax, build sandcastles, or just soak up the sun. The casual atmosphere means you can linger a bit if you wish, or simply enjoy the stunning ocean views while munching on your meal. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by families, who love to unwind after all the activity.
Spotting Sea Turtles at Green Cay
Post-lunch, the boat heads for Green Cay, about 10 minutes away, to look for wild green sea turtles. These gentle creatures often poke their heads above water near the grassy seabed, giving snorkelers and boat passengers a chance for a quick, memorable wildlife sighting. Many reviews mention how close the turtles come—”You can easily see them from the boat, and sometimes they even swim around the boat,” as one happy traveler shared.
Nassau Harbor and Return
On the way back, the boat cruises into Nassau harbor from the west, offering a final chance to admire the impressive cruise ships docked nearby and the scenic bay. The last part of the journey is about 15 minutes, giving you a relaxed view of Nassau’s waterfront before returning to Carnivale Bahamas.
Practical details and tips for a smooth experience
- Timing & Punctuality: The tour departs fully on time; late arrivals might miss parts of the itinerary.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for the beach bar.
- Climbing onto the boat: The activity involves climbing a vertical ladder at stops, so be prepared for some physical exertion.
- Weather considerations: The tour offers a full refund if the captain cancels due to weather, which is reassuring.
- Age & mobility: Not suitable for pregnant women, very young children, or those with mobility constraints, due to climbing and boat movement.
Who will love this tour?
If you’re after a fun-packed, all-in-one Nassau adventure that mixes wildlife, snorkeling, and cultural sights with laid-back beach time, this tour will resonate. Families with children over 2 should note the ladder-climbing, but older kids and teens tend to love the pigs and snorkeling. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the turtles and the chance to feed pigs, while those seeking a scenic ride with great photo opportunities should definitely consider it.
Final thoughts
This tour offers a balanced and authentic taste of Nassau’s marine and island life. It’s designed to be lively but not overwhelming, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights and sounds. The guides tend to be friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and educational. The inclusion of lunch and all necessary gear makes it a convenient way to see some of Nassau’s most iconic spots without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.
If you’re dreaming of close-up wildlife encounters, vibrant coral reefs, and iconic island scenery—plus an opportunity to meet some very friendly pigs—this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those who don’t want a long day but still crave a full, varied experience with plenty of photo opportunities and fun anecdotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can participate, but keep in mind the tour involves climbing a ladder onto the boat and some physical activity.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for comfort during beach time.
Is the snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, and pool noodles are supplied for the reef stops.
How punctual is the tour?
The boat departs exactly on time; arriving late could mean missing parts of the tour, so plan accordingly.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the captain recommends canceling due to weather conditions.
How long do we stay at each stop?
The stops are relatively quick—about 5 to 35 minutes—enough to enjoy the moment before moving on.
Are there restrictions for pregnant women or those with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with back problems.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a tasty Bahamian lunch is included at a beach bar, with time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see wild green sea turtles and enjoy the chance to feed and interact with the pigs.
How crowded does the tour get?
The provider maintains a good rating of 4.7, suggesting a well-managed group size that allows for personal interaction.
To sum it up, this Nassau speedboat tour packs a lot into four hours—wildlife sightings, snorkeling, cultural sights, and a relaxing lunch. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a lively, all-inclusive day with plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re an animal lover, a photographer, or just looking to enjoy Nassau from the water, this trip offers genuine fun and authentic island charm.
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