Exuma Day Away – Original Swimming Pigs Excursion

If you’re considering a trip to Nassau, the Exuma Day Away tour offers an immersive glimpse into the Bahamas’ most iconic wildlife and scenic islands. This popular full-day power boat adventure is packed with opportunities to see swimming pigs, nurse sharks, Bahamian iguanas, and picturesque cay landscapes—all in one memorable journey.

From the enthusiastic reviews, it’s clear that many find this tour an excellent value for how much you see and do. We love the way it combines wildlife encounters with the stunning scenery of the Exumas, making it perfect for first-time visitors eager to tick off multiple highlights in a single day. However, the tour’s long hours and full schedule mean it might not be ideal for everyone—especially those preferring a slower, more relaxed pace.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience the Bahamas’ most famous sights without multiple separate trips. If you’re comfortable on a boat, enjoy wild natural encounters, and want an all-in-one adventure, this experience ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure with multiple island stops and wildlife encounters
• Includes lunch and round-trip transportation from Nassau
• Highlights include swimming with pigs, sharks, and feeding iguanas
• Water views of the iconic Exuma Cays are breathtaking
• Group size generally capped at 36, ensuring a lively but manageable experience
• Weather dependence is key—bad weather can lead to cancellations or changes

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Montagu Beach, Nassau

The adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am. Expect a lively start with your crew greeting you at Montagu Beach, ready for a day on the water. The departure is via a power boat—a fast, open vessel that offers unobstructed views and an adrenaline rush, but also a reminder to pack some patience for the bumpy ride.

Stop 1: Great Guana Cay—A Glimpse of Bahamian Wildlife

Your first stop is to visit a wildlife reserve where the shy but fascinating rock iguanas call home. These creatures are accustomed to visitors but can be cautious, so don’t expect to get instant selfies—more like a natural encounter that offers a chance to observe these unique reptiles in their environment. Reviews mention feeding iguanas as a highlight, giving you a rare chance to interact with wildlife in the wild.

Stop 2: Compass Cay—Swim with Sharks

Next, you head to Compass Cay, famous for its shark interactions. This is the most adventurous part of the day, where you can swim with nurse sharks in shallow and deep water. The reviews describe this as “the highlight for many,” with some saying, “holding nurse sharks like puppy dogs in crystal blue water” was unforgettable.

The experience is safe and controlled, but it’s not for the faint of heart. If you’re nervous about sharks, the shallow water options may be more comfortable. The crew is experienced and helpful, making sure everyone feels confident.

The Main Event: Pig Beach at Big Major Cay

Of course, the star attraction is Pig Beach—the original swimming pigs site at Big Majors Cay. The 45-minute stop here allows plenty of time to feed and splash around with these famous animals, often regarded as the “main reason” many book this tour. Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and eager the pigs are, and some share tips like “talk with authority” as the pigs respond best to confident visitors.

Stop 4: Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park—Sandbars and Scenic Views

The tour includes a visit to a sandbar, where the shifting sands at low tide create a surreal landscape. The captain picks a sandbar during transit, so the exact location varies. This stop is appreciated for giving a sense of remote, untouched natural beauty, and the shallow waters are perfect for wading or snapping photos.

Optional: Pablo Escobar Sunken Plane Wreck

A quick view of the world-famous plane wreck near Norman’s Cay offers a fascinating scene for photography buffs or history enthusiasts. Although brief, it’s an iconic glimpse into the Bahamas’ intriguing past.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour price of $438 per person covers a lot—and when you analyze the reviews, it’s clear many see it as good value for a full day packed with activities. Included are:

• Round-trip transportation from Nassau
• Bottled water and alcoholic beverages for those who want to toast the day
• Delicious Bahamian lunch at Black Point Yacht Club—much appreciated by reviewers for its tasty, local flavors
• Wildlife encounters like iguana feeding, swimming pigs, and sharks
• Land and sea sightseeing around the Exuma Cays
• Entry fees for iguana feeding and shark interaction

Towels are not included, so pack one if you plan to swim, and don’t forget sunblock—the sun can be relentless. Vegetarian options are available if requested at booking, catering to dietary preferences.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

Wildlife encounters truly are the highlight. Many reviewers describe the nurse shark swim as “the best part” of the trip, with the opportunity to hold sharks in clear waters, feeling surprisingly gentle. The swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, often described as “the main event,” are just as charming in person as in photos.

The guides consistently receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety-conscious approach. Several reviews mention the crew’s “lively personalities” making the long day enjoyable and engaging.

The water views across the Exuma Cays are described as “breathtaking”—a reminder of just how stunning the Bahamas’ turquoise waters and limestone islands are.

The food gets high marks—local Bahamian fare at Black Point Yacht Club was described as “delicious” and a great break from the boat’s activity.

Cons

The main drawback is the long hours—the tour lasts about 8 hours 30 minutes, with over 200 miles of boat travel. Some reviewers note that about 5 hours of that is spent on the boat, which can feel “bumpy” and tiring, especially for those prone to seasickness. Be prepared for a fast-paced schedule with minimal downtime at each stop.

Weather is a factor—poor conditions can lead to cancellations, as noted by a reviewer who experienced a last-minute cancellation due to safety concerns. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible.

Group size, generally up to 36 travelers, keeps the experience lively but not overly crowded. Smaller groups might be available via private options, but these come at a premium.

Analyzing Value for Money

At $438 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but reviews indicate many see it as worth the cost. The inclusion of lunch, wildlife encounters, and transportation simplifies planning and adds value. The ability to see and do so much in one day—from iguana feeding to swimming with sharks—means you’re gaining a comprehensive Bahamas experience that might otherwise take multiple separate trips.

While some mention long boat rides—over an hour each way—these are part of the adventure, offering scenic views and anticipation for the stops. Reviewers also comment on the friendly crew and excellent organization, which makes the long day manageable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re animal curious—and not just content to admire wildlife from a distance—this trip delivers. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a curated taste of the Bahamas’ most famous attractions. The water-based itinerary suits those comfortable on boats and eager for adventure, not relaxation.

Families with children (minimum age 3) and adults alike find plenty to enjoy, especially since the day is full of photo opportunities and interactive wildlife. However, those prone to seasickness or seeking a slower pace might find the long boat rides challenging.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This full-day Bahamian adventure offers a rich blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and local culture, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to maximize their time in Nassau. The friendly guides, diverse stops, and delicious lunch elevate the experience beyond a simple boat tour.

The tour’s value hinges on your interest in animals and scenic exploration—if that’s your thing, this trip provides a memorable, photo-worthy day that’s hard to beat. Be prepared for the schedule’s intensity, and pack your sunblock and towel.

In essence, it’s a well-rounded, entertaining, and exciting day, especially suited to those who want a taste of everything the Bahamas has to offer—wildlife, scenery, and a sprinkle of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book about 8 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunblock, and a sense of adventure. Towels aren’t included, and the sun can be strong. Also, consider bringing a waterproof camera or phone protector for photos.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Yes, the shark interaction has options for shallow water, making it accessible even for non-swimmers. Just inform the crew if you prefer the shallow part.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 36 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group, though private options may be available for smaller, more intimate experiences.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 3 and up can join, but parental discretion is advised regarding the boat ride’s length and activity intensity.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can cause cancellations or schedule changes. If canceled due to unsafe conditions, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

To sum it up, the Exuma Day Away tour is an enriching, fun-packed way to experience some of the Bahamas’ most famous animals and landscapes. With a focus on wildlife, scenic water views, and local cuisine, it’s a trip that promises memories to last a lifetime—especially for those eager for adventure and wildlife encounters. Just remember to pack your sunblock, bring a sense of patience for the boat rides, and get ready for an unforgettable day.