Private Rose Island, Swimming Pigs, Snorkeling and Turtles

Imagine cruising through Nassau’s sparkling waters on your very own boat, with the freedom to tailor your day to what excites you most. This private half-day tour, priced at $925 for up to 8 guests, offers an intimate way to see some of the Bahamas’ top attractions—snorkeling at coral reefs, swimming with sea turtles, and visiting famous swimming pigs. With a duration of about four hours, it’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking flexibility and authentic island experiences.

What we love most about this trip are the personalized attention from your guides—who are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable service—and the stunning, uncrowded beaches you get to explore at your own pace. Plus, the included snacks, drinks, and the option to bring your own picnic make it a true all-in-one Caribbean escape.

A potential consideration is the extra cost for swimming pigs and private transfers—these are optional but add to the overall experience and expense. For travelers who value privacy, customization, and direct access to Bahamas’ natural highlights, this trip is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those wanting to avoid large crowds and tour groups, and who appreciate a laid-back, flexible day on the water.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Your group controls the stops and activities, avoiding crowded excursions.
• Inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks: Snorkeling gear is provided, plus refreshing sodas, bottled water, and rum punch.
• Flexible options: You can add swimming with pigs or skip it altogether, tailoring the day to your preferences.
• Efficient, intimate experience: The small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Highly praised guides: Reviewers consistently mention friendly, knowledgeable captains who enhance the trip.
• Ideal for cruise visitors and families: The tour’s flexibility suits various ages and schedules.

What’s Included and How It Works

This private 4-hour boat trip offers a personalized day on the water that you and your group can tailor. For $925, up to 8 people enjoy private transportation, snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks. The tour departs from Nassau’s cruise terminal or your hotel with optional pickup, making logistics simpler for visitors.

The itinerary is flexible—while the standard stops include Rose Island for pristine beaches and snorkeling, Green Cay for swimming with turtles, and optional swimming pigs—many guides are praised for their willingness to adapt based on your desires. Several reviews highlight how guides like Captain Ramsey, Captain Dillon, or Captain Lawren go out of their way to make sure everyone’s wishes are met, whether that’s more snorkeling, relaxing on a quiet beach, or viewing wildlife.

The Stops and Their Appeal

Rose Island: An Unsurprisingly Popular Spot

Most tours include a stop at Rose Island, a quiet, uninhabited paradise, perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. Reviewers rave about the crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. One reviewer described it as “like having your own island,” noting the seclusion and natural beauty. Be aware that the boat may switch out if there are mechanical issues, but this is handled smoothly according to reviews.

Green Cay and the Sea Turtles

Swimming with sea turtles at Green Cay is a high point for many travelers. Guides are praised for their patience and expertise—”Captain Dillon made it happen,” one reviewer said—especially when weather conditions aren’t ideal. Expect to see a handful of turtles, with some reviews mentioning only 2-3 sightings, but the experience of being in the water with these gentle creatures is often described as unforgettable.

Swimming Pigs: A Controversial but Popular Choice

The iconic swimming pigs are a major draw—though some reviews mention it’s a bit of a “tourist trap,” with an extra fee of $30 per person. The pigs are housed on Athol Island, not the original Exumas location, which some travelers find disappointing. The pigs are raised in pens, and visitors can feed and hold the piglets, which many children love. One reviewer said, “we loved holding the baby pigs and taking pictures,” though another noted the pigs were in pens and that the experience was somewhat commercialized.

Private Beaches and Sunsets

Many travelers appreciate the secluded beaches or quiet coves they encounter en route. One reviewer described a private beach with “the softest and cleanest sand,” ideal for relaxing or snapping photos. It’s a perfect spot to chill out after snorkeling or pig-feeding.

The Experience of the Guides

The guides consistently earn high praise for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge. Several reviews mentioned captains like Captain Ramsey, Captain Dillon, and Captain Lawren as being “superb,” “attentive,” and “full of information,” adding a layer of authenticity and local insight that makes the day more meaningful. They also help with picture-taking, spotting wildlife, and adjusting the itinerary based on weather or preferences.

The Practical Details: Pricing, Duration, and Value

At $925 per group, this trip costs roughly $115-120 per person for 8 people—quite a reasonable rate considering the private, customized experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks enhances the value, making it a more enjoyable and hassle-free day on the water. However, extras like swimming pigs or private transfers are additional costs, worth considering when budgeting.

Several reviews highlight that this experience is worth the money because of the personalized service and flexibility. One guest remarked, “This private tour was better than big group excursions,” emphasizing how fewer crowds and a tailored itinerary make a difference.

Real Experiences and Authenticity

Many reviews describe the trip as “the best day ever,” especially highlighting the guides’ friendliness, the beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to swim with turtles and pigs. For example, one guest said, “Captain Ramsey treated us like friends, and the snorkeling and turtle encounters were unforgettable.” Several travelers appreciated how guides took the time to send pictures afterward, adding a personal touch.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for a private, flexible day. It’s especially ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds typical of large tour groups, and who appreciate authentic, personalized experiences. If you’re eager to snorkel, see wildlife, and relax on quiet beaches with your own team, this tour ticks all those boxes.

This private Nassau boat tour is a smart pick for travelers wanting an intimate, customizable adventure. It offers excellent value with included snorkeling gear, drinks, and the comfort of a private boat. The flexibility to skip or include stops—like the swimming pigs—means you get a day tailored precisely to your interests. Plus, the high praise for guides’ friendliness and knowledge makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

If your idea of a perfect day involves cruising at your own pace and exploring Nassau’s highlights without the hassle of large groups, then this tour will serve you well. It’s especially appealing if you love natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and the chance to create personal memories with your loved ones.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about four hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, snorkel, and relax without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes. The tour is private and flexible, so you can tailor it to your interests—whether that’s more snorkeling, extra beach time, or skipping certain activities.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

What’s the policy on swimming pigs?
Swimming pigs are an optional add-on at a cost of $30 per person. You can choose to skip it or include it—it’s not mandatory.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes. You’ll enjoy sodas, bottled water, and rum punch, with the option to bring your own picnic for a more elaborate lunch.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Private transfers are available at an extra cost, but many guests find the location accessible from Nassau’s cruise terminal or their hotel.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who are the guides?
The guides, including captains like Ramsey, Dillon, and Lawren, are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and willingness to customize the trip.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids loving the pigs, turtles, and beaches. The tour is flexible enough to accommodate families with varying ages.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day on quiet sands, snorkeling with turtles, or experiencing the Bahamas’ most famous wildlife—this private tour offers a tailored, enjoyable way to see Nassau’s waters. With friendly guides and the freedom to customize, it’s a memorable way to make the most of your Bahamas visit.