Private Rose Island Tours

Exploring the Bahamas by Boat: A Detailed Look at Private Rose Island Tours

Imagine cruising along the shimmering waters of the Bahamas in a comfortable, swift boat, just your group, with the chance to stop at pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and even meet swimming pigs. For around $950 per group—which can accommodate up to 8 people—you get approximately 4 hours of personalized adventure with Captain Chris at the helm. The boat, a 2002 Regulator FS Center Console with twin 300 HP Yamaha outboards, can reach speeds of up to 30 knots, making your journey both exciting and efficient.

Two aspects of this tour stand out immediately. First, its flexibility—you can tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s snorkeling, island hopping, or relaxing on a secluded beach. Second, the personal attention—being a private tour means no crowds, no rushing, just the freedom to explore at your own pace. A minor consideration is the cost, which may seem high for some, but when you compare it to the value of exclusive access, private guides, and customized experiences, it’s quite reasonable.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized day on the water, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply eager for an authentic Bahamas experience away from busy crowds. If you love the idea of discovering hidden beaches, encountering wildlife, and enjoying a peaceful cruise with friends or family, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests.
• Includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, bottled water, and soda.
• Stops at Rose Island, Gilligan’s Island, Green Cay, and more.
• Opportunity to swim with sea turtles and relax on secluded beaches.
• Optional swim with pigs available for an extra fee.
• Fast cruising at up to 30 knots for maximum fun and efficiency.

An In-Depth Review of the Private Rose Island Tour

The Experience in a Nutshell

This private tour with Rig Charters offers an exclusive way to explore some of the Bahamas’ most beautiful waters and islands. For around four hours, you’ll be aboard a speedy, well-maintained boat with Captain Chris, who brings a wealth of local knowledge and a friendly approach. The cost of $950 covers your entire group—up to 8 people—making it a surprisingly good deal when you consider the personalized service.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour begins with a harbor cruise from Nassau, passing private homes and neighboring islands—a scenic introduction to the area’s landscape. You’ll then hop onto Rose Island, a small but stunning island just 20 minutes away, known for its clear waters and white sandy beaches.

From there, your trip is flexible: you can choose to snorkel at a vibrant reef, visit Gilligan’s Island, or see wild sea turtles at Green Cay. Each stop offers a different flavor of the Bahamas. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the reefs are filled with colorful fish and coral, promising a lively underwater scene. Gilligan’s Island is perfect for photos and stretching your legs, while Green Cay provides an opportunity to see sea turtles in their natural habitat, making this a trip rich in wildlife encounters.

A highlight for many is relaxing on a secluded beach—ideal for unwinding, sunbathing, or having a picnic. Alternatively, you can opt for the swimming pigs experience (at an additional cost), which has become an iconic Bahamas activity. The tour is fully customizable, so if you prefer more beach time or more snorkeling, just communicate your wishes.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the flexibility is a game-changer. Unlike group tours with rigid schedules, this private experience lets you decide how to spend your limited time. Whether you want to spend more time swimming, taking photos, or just relaxing, it’s up to you.

Second, the speed and comfort of the boat make a big difference. Reaching destinations quickly means more time enjoying the sights and less time in transit. Captain Chris’s boat is described as both fast and stable, giving you a smooth ride that’s suitable even for those prone to seasickness.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main point to consider is the price—$950 for a 4-hour private tour might seem steep, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. However, when you factor in the exclusivity, personalized itinerary, and access to private islands and snorkeling spots, the value becomes clearer. Also, if your group is larger (up to 8), the cost per person decreases significantly.

Another aspect to think about is weather dependence. The tour requires good weather, and if the forecast calls for storms or high winds, you might need to reschedule. The tour provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather, so it’s sensible to plan on good conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value privacy and customization—families, small groups of friends, or couples celebrating something special. It’s ideal if you want an authentic, relaxed Bahamas adventure with the flexibility to choose your stops. It’s also perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see sea turtles or those who want to avoid crowded tourist spots.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What truly makes this experience special is the combination of speed, flexibility, and intimacy. The boat’s ability to reach remote spots quickly means you can see more in less time. The private setting ensures you won’t be herded along with strangers, and your captain’s local knowledge enriches the experience with stories and insights.

Many reviewers, including one who described it as an “amazing sunset boat ride,” highlight Captain Chris’s knowledge and sense of safety. Having a captain who is both skilled and personable turns an ordinary boat trip into a memorable adventure.

The stops like Green Cay and Gilligan’s Island aren’t just scenic—they’re unique experiences you might not find on larger group tours. The opportunity to see wild sea turtles in their habitat is a highlight for many visitors, adding a layer of genuine wildlife encounter.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early, especially if visiting during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time.
• Consider adding the swimming pigs experience if you’re interested in that iconic Bahamas activity—just note the extra fee.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—along with your snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.
• Confirm weather conditions before heading out; the tour is weather-dependent.
• Be prepared for possible additional costs, such as lunch at the beach bar or entrance fees for swimming pigs.

The Sum Up

In essence, Private Rose Island Tours offers a personalized, flexible way to enjoy the Bahamas’ waters and islands, balancing adventure with relaxation. For a reasonable price considering the exclusivity and variety of stops, you gain access to stunning scenery, vibrant reefs, and wildlife—plus the comfort of a fast, reliable boat and a friendly captain.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate a tailored experience, want to avoid large crowds, and are eager to explore the Bahamas’ hidden gems at their own pace. Whether snorkeling over coral reefs, relaxing on deserted beaches, or snapping photos on Gilligan’s Island, you’ll appreciate the intimacy and authenticity this trip provides.

If you’re looking for a memorable day that combines adventure, wildlife, and serene scenery, this private boat tour is a smart choice. It offers genuine value for those wanting a customized Bahamas experience that balances fun, comfort, and the chance to discover the islands’ best-kept secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, but there are options for 6 or 8 hours if you want more time to explore.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks, and soda. You also get a private boat and a knowledgeable captain.

Are there additional costs to consider?
Yes, you might pay separately for lunch at a beach bar or for swimming with pigs, which costs around $30 per person.

What stops can I expect?
Stops include Rose Island, Gilligan’s Island, and Green Cay, where you can snorkel, take photos, or see sea turtles.

Can I customize my experience?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, so you can choose how much time to spend at each stop or skip certain activities.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 guests can join for a flat rate, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, your own snorkeling gear if preferred, and anything else you need for comfort on the water.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but always check with the provider if you have very young children or special needs.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online through Viator, and confirmation is immediate upon booking.

This detailed review hopefully helps you decide whether this private boat experience aligns with your travel plans. With its combination of flexibility, scenic stops, and personalized service, it truly offers a special way to enjoy the Bahamas’ waters.