Full Day Exuma Swimming Pigs – Group Boat Tour From Nassau

If you’re looking to see some of the most iconic sights in the Bahamas in one day, this full-day group boat tour from Nassau promises a memorable adventure. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback, it’s clear this experience offers a blend of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and relaxed beach time—perfect for those wanting a taste of authentic Bahamian life without the hassle of multiple bookings.

Two aspects that stand out for us are the chance to interact with wildlife (like the famous swimming pigs and nurse sharks) and the opportunity to enjoy a delicious Bahamian lunch at a local spot. However, some travelers might find the schedule tight or prefer more time at each stop. This tour suits active travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring Exuma’s highlights in one go, especially those eager for fun photo ops and unique wildlife experiences.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters such as swimming with nurse sharks and petting the famous pigs
• Stunning scenery including sandbars, beaches, and the sunken Pablo Escobar plane
• Cultural and historical touches through visits to Allen Cay and Norman’s Cay wrecks
• Convenient full-day itinerary with meals included
• Small group size (up to 15 travelers) for a more personalized experience
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind for weather concerns

Contents

• Key Points
• An Introduction to the Exuma Pigs Tour Experience
• What We Love About This Tour
• The Itinerary in Detail
• Stop 1: Allen Cay – The Iguanas and Birdlife
• Stop 2: Norman’s Cay – The Sunken Plane
• Stop 3: Compass Cay – Nurse Sharks
• Stop 4: Pig Beach – The Famous Swimming Pigs
• Stop 5: Black Point Yacht Club – Bahamian Lunch
• Stop 6: Exuma Sand Bar – Tranquil Beach Time
• Transportation & Group Size
• Pricing and Value
• Weather and Cancellation Policy
• Who Would Love This Experience?
• The Sum Up
• FAQ
• Our Top Picks in New Providence Island
• More Boat Tours & Cruises in New Providence Island
• More Tours in New Providence Island
• More Tour Reviews in New Providence Island
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in New Providence Island we have recnetly reviewed

An Introduction to the Exuma Pigs Tour Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the Bahamas’ most iconic sights in just one day. It’s designed for those who want to experience wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and a taste of local flavor without the need for multiple trips or expensive private tours. The journey from Nassau takes about eight hours, with a packed itinerary that hits all the high points.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the way it balances adventure and relaxation. You’ll get your adrenaline fix with swimming alongside nurse sharks and playful piggy pals, then unwind on pristine sandbars or enjoy hearty Bahamian food. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who thrive on variety and want a genuine taste of island life.

A potential consideration is the timing—since the tour moves quickly across several stops, those hoping for more leisure time at each site may find it a bit rushed. But for most, the value and diversity packed into this day make it worth the effort. It’s most suited for active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to create a trove of fun photos.

What We Love About This Tour

The wildlife encounters are a definite highlight. Swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay is both safe and surprisingly calming, giving you a chance to get up close with these gentle creatures. Then, meeting the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach is a surreal, playful experience that’s become a Bahamas hallmark. Plus, the chance to feed the ancient iguanas on Allen Cay and explore the sunken plane wreck of Pablo Escobar adds layers of interest, blending nature and history.

Another big plus is the scenic boat ride itself. Traveling through the Exuma Cays offers spectacular views of turquoise waters, tiny islands, and open ocean—perfect for snapping memorable photos. The lunch at Black Point Yacht Club provides a hearty, local-style meal, giving travelers a taste of Bahamian flavors in a relaxed setting.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Allen Cay – The Iguanas and Birdlife

Starting the day early, the tour heads to Allen Cay, where you’ll see magnificent, ancient rock iguanas. The experience is quite tame but fascinating—these iguanas are used to humans, so you can observe them up close without disturbing their natural behaviors. The surrounding birdlife adds to the island’s charm, making it a peaceful spot in the morning.

Travelers comment that while the iguana viewing is brief (about 30 minutes), it’s a worthwhile introduction to the island’s unique fauna. The admission is free, and the experience sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Stop 2: Norman’s Cay – The Sunken Plane

Next, the boat takes you to Norman’s Cay to see a famous wreck—the plane of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar. This wreck, now a coral-covered skeleton resting on the ocean floor, offers a fascinating glimpse into recent history and a chance for snorkelers to explore underwater. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, so if you’re a history buff or keen on underwater photography, this will be a highlight.

Stop 3: Compass Cay – Nurse Sharks

The heart-pounding moment for many is at Compass Cay, home to dozens of nurse sharks. The tour allows you to swim or snorkel among these gentle creatures, which are harmless but surprisingly close. We loved the way the guide explained that nurse sharks are quite docile and unlikely to bother you, making this a safe yet exhilarating experience.

The 45-minute stay gives enough time to relax in the water, take photos, and marvel at the marine life. If you’re nervous about sharks, rest assured—they’re more curious than aggressive.

Stop 4: Pig Beach – The Famous Swimming Pigs

No trip to the Bahamas is complete without visiting Pig Beach, where free-roaming pigs paddle in the shallow waters. Once ashore, you can walk or swim among these friendly animals, petting and feeding them. Visitors often find it adorable—”Once the boat docked, I couldn’t stop smiling,” one reviewer noted.

This stop lasts around 40 minutes, perfect for some playful photos and a lighthearted break. Keep in mind that the pigs are accustomed to visitors but are still animals, so treat them gently.

Stop 5: Black Point Yacht Club – Bahamian Lunch

Midday, the tour pauses for a buffet-style lunch at Black Point Yacht Club. The menu offers a variety of local dishes—think fresh seafood, rice, and Bahamian specialties—served in a casual, friendly setting. The included meal is a nice break from the busy morning, and most travelers find the food satisfying and authentic.

Stop 6: Exuma Sand Bar – Tranquil Beach Time

The final stop takes you to a beautiful sandbar in the middle of the ocean. Here, you can relax, swim, or just enjoy the tranquility and the view of endless water. It’s a perfect place to unwind after a busy morning and capture some last photos of the day.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses a group boat, with a maximum of 15 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and personal space. The boat ride itself is quite scenic, and the small group size helps keep the experience intimate. Pickup is from Nassau, with the tour starting at 8:00 am from Elizabeth on Bay, making it convenient for most travelers staying in Nassau.

Pricing and Value

At $489 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it provides a lot of value. With all entrance fees, lunch, and transportation included, you’re covering a well-rounded experience that would take multiple separate trips to replicate on your own. Considering the variety—from wildlife encounters, historical wrecks, to stunning beaches—most travelers will find the cost reasonable, especially given the convenience.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is weather-dependent; if the weather turns poor, you might face cancellations. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, which is reassuring given the unpredictability of outdoor activities. It’s wise to check the forecast and confirm plans accordingly.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, and families with kids who enjoy interactive experiences. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day trip with varied sights and activities, without the time or expense of private tours. If you’re keen on photo opportunities and underwater adventures, this trip ticks all boxes.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Exuma Swimming Pigs tour from Nassau offers a well-organized, diverse snapshot of what makes the Bahamas special. You’ll meet friendly pigs, swim with nurse sharks, explore historic wrecks, and relax on pristine sandbars—an excellent mix of nature, history, and leisure.

While the busy schedule might feel rushed for some, most will appreciate the value of seeing so many highlights in one day. The small group size and included meals add to the overall comfort and convenience. Travelers seeking a fun, wildlife-filled excursion that captures the essence of the Exuma Cays will find this tour hard to beat.

For those eager to check off bucket-list experiences in a single trip and gather countless photos, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for a full day of activity and the occasional early start. It’s a fun, lively way to experience the best of the Bahamas on your schedule.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Nassau around late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, all listed stops, wildlife encounters, and a buffet lunch at Black Point. Entrance fees for the stops are included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy animals and water activities will likely love it. Check with the provider if you have younger kids.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, which is helpful if weather conditions are poor.

What should I bring?
Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, camera, waterproof bag for valuables, and a hat are recommended for comfort and safety.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour mentions that all stops, meals, and fees are included in the price.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Yes, the boat is designed for comfort, with enough space for all travelers, and offers scenic views during the journey.

What’s the main highlight?
Most travelers rave about swimming with nurse sharks and visiting Pig Beach, both of which are unique and memorable.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wildlife and natural scenery suggests a responsible approach. Always follow guide instructions to minimize impact.