Self Drive Speedboat and Swim with the Pigs

Self Drive Speedboat and Swim with the Pigs: A Detailed Review

Imagine taking the wheel of your own speedboat in the Bahamas, feeling the wind in your hair as you cruise past stunning island views, and then swimming alongside adorable pigs on a secluded private island. This 2-hour adventure, offered by Cruising Adventures, costs about $130 per person and is designed for those craving a mix of thrill and quirky fun. Starting from Nassau’s Malcolm’s Park at the Atlantis Bridge, you’ll be guided by friendly staff who give simple instructions—perfect even for first-timers—to help you become a sea captain for the day.

What makes this tour special is the combination of adrenaline-pumping speedboat action with the unique experience of interacting with Bahamas’ famous swimming pigs. We love that the guides are patient and professional, making even nervous travelers feel comfortable, and that the ride offers stunning island vistas that are best appreciated from the water. Another highlight is the opportunity to feed and take pictures with the pigs, which promises plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

That said, a potential drawback might be the chance of choppy waters or windy conditions, which some reviewers mentioned made driving a bit challenging. The tour is also limited to a maximum of 20 guests, which keeps it personal but might mean booking ahead during busy seasons. This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, families with kids over 5, or anyone eager to combine a boat ride with a memorable animal encounter.

Key Points

• Self-Drive Freedom: You get to control your own speedboat, adding a fun and empowering element.
• Unique Experience: Swimming with pigs on a private island is a rare, playful activity that appeals to animal lovers.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, patient staff enhance the experience, offering reassurance and local tips.
• Accessible Adventure: No boating license needed; suitable for most travelers over age 5.
• Short and Sweet: At just about 2 hours, it’s a quick but memorable outing.
• Good Value: For $130, you enjoy a mix of adrenaline, scenic views, and a quirky animal encounter.

The Adventure from Nassau: What to Expect

Starting from Nassau’s Malcolm’s Park at Atlantis Bridge, the tour kicks off with a straightforward check-in process. The team at Cruising Adventures is praised for their hospitable and professional attitude, making it clear that safety and fun are priorities. As you listen to quick instructions on operating your speedboat, you’ll quickly realize that no prior experience or boating license is necessary. The guides are there to help, ensuring everyone feels confident before heading out.

Once on the water, the real fun begins. You’ll follow your guide along the coast, enjoying stunning views of Nassau’s shoreline, the Atlantis Hotel, and the surrounding islands. The ride itself is quite exhilarating—”hard driving at first,” as one reviewer put it—but most noted that they got better with practice and enjoyed the thrill of controlling their own boat.

About halfway through, you’ll arrive at a private island, the highlight of the tour. Here, pigs are eager to interact, be fed, and photographed, providing a delightful contrast to the high-speed boat ride. The pigs are described as friendly and well-cared for, with the water being clear and the environment tidy. Tourists often comment on the adorable baby pigs and the fun of trying to get close enough for photos.

The guides, referred to as patient and accommodating, are key to making the experience enjoyable. One review mentions “two young gentlemen” who went above and beyond to make sure everyone had a good time, even when the wind made driving tricky. It’s worth noting that the wind and water conditions can sometimes be challenging, so flexibility and patience are helpful.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, giving you an opportunity to reflect on a unique blend of adventure and animal fun.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the best parts of this experience is the balance between adrenaline and charm. The feeling of controlling your own speedboat is thrilling—many reviewers enjoyed the “fun experience” of handling the boat, especially after overcoming initial difficulty. Plus, the scenic cruise offers plenty of picture-worthy moments, from Nassau’s coast to the distant islands.

Another highlight is the opportunity to interact with the pigs. Unlike some more commercialized attractions, the pigs here are described as friendly and the environment well-maintained, which adds to the authentic feel. The opportunity to feed the pigs and snap photos makes for lasting memories that stand out among typical Bahamas excursions.

We also appreciate the value of this tour: for $130, you get approximately two hours of fun, with guides who prioritize safety and enjoyment. The fact that most travelers found it “a must-do activity” shows it’s highly regarded for its uniqueness and excitement.

Possible Considerations

The main consideration is weather dependency. If it’s windy or stormy, the boat ride can become more challenging, and the guides might need to delay or reschedule for safety reasons. This is mentioned in the cancellation policy, which offers full refunds if the activity is canceled due to weather. Travelers should also be prepared for some rough water conditions—especially for those prone to seasickness or nervous about boat handling.

Plus, since the tour involves driving your own boat, even though no license is required, it does demand a bit of alertness and coordination. Those looking for a very relaxed, sit-back experience might find this a bit too energetic.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This activity is well-suited for adventure enthusiasts who want a hands-on experience and enjoy a bit of adrenaline. Families with children over five will find it both fun and safe, provided they’re comfortable on boats. Animal lovers will particularly appreciate the chance to meet and feed the famous Bahamas pigs in a natural, friendly setting.

It’s also a good pick for those who are looking for a quick, memorable activity that combines scenic cruising with a quirky animal encounter—something different from traditional beach or snorkeling tours. Travelers who enjoy trying new things and don’t mind a bit of water spray will find this tour a worthy addition to their Nassau itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Self Drive Speedboat and Swim with the Pigs tour offers a charming combo of adventure, scenic views, and animal fun that’s hard to beat. For around $130, you get to take control of your own boat and visit a private island home to friendly pigs, all within a short, lively two-hour window. The guides are praised for their professionalism and patience, making even hesitant travelers feel at ease.

While weather can influence the experience, most reviews highlight the exhilaration of driving the boat and the joy of interacting with the pigs. It’s a great choice for families, thrill-seekers, and animal lovers eager to add a bit of playful adventure to their Bahamas trip.

If you’re after a fun, active, and memorable experience that combines scenic beauty with a touch of the unexpected, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast and book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boating license to participate?
No, you do not need a boating license or prior experience. The guides provide quick instructions to help you feel confident on the speedboat.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over the age of 5 can join, making it suitable for families. Keep in mind that driving the boat is only for those over 18.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, from check-in to return.

What should I wear?
Dress in casual, quick-drying clothing suitable for water activities. A swimsuit under your clothes is recommended, and don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is it crowded?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, which helps keep it personable and manageable, especially during peak times.

This tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Bahamas adventure—perfect for those wanting both a rush and a memorable animal encounter. Whether you’re steering your boat past Nassau’s coast or feeding pigs on a secluded island, it’s an experience that combines fun, scenery, and a touch of the unexpected.