Swimming Pigs, Turtles & Reef Snorkel in Nassau-Champion Tours

Planning a trip to Nassau and looking for an experience that combines wildlife encounters, beautiful scenery, and a touch of adventure? This Swimming Pigs, Turtles & Reef Snorkel tour offered by Champion Tours promises just that. With a perfect 5-star rating from 15 reviewers, it’s clearly a favorite among visitors, who praise its knowledgeable guides, flexible schedule, and authentic island charm.

But is it worth the $205 per person? Let’s explore what makes this excursion stand out, what to expect, and how to decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its personalized approach—allowing guests to customize and choose when to leave each stop—and the high standard of safety and professionalism. The presence of medically trained staff and certified captains reassures travelers, especially families with kids.

Another bonus is the stunning scenery you’ll encounter on the boat ride, with crystal-clear waters and panoramic island views.

A potential consideration is that some stops are optional, like Pig Island (which has a $45 site fee), so if you’re not keen on the pigs, you might want to plan accordingly. Also, the tour does not include lunch, so you’ll want to budget for a meal at your own expense.

This tour suits travelers looking for a fun, flexible day in the Bahamas—particularly families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager for a mix of adventure and picturesque island hopping. Let’s get into the details.

Key Points

• Customizable Experience: You have control over your schedule and stops, making the tour adaptable to your interests.
• Knowledgeable Guides & Safety: Professional guides, medical personnel, and certified captains ensure a secure and informative journey.
• Wildlife & Reef Snorkel: Expect to see turtles, feed fish, and snorkel vibrant reefs—all with provided snorkel gear.
• Iconic Wildlife Encounters: Swim, feed, and photograph the famous pigs at Pig Island, with an optional visit.
• Luxury & Comfort: Fully licensed vessels, clean and modern boats, with amenities like bottled water, snacks, WiFi, and an optional drone photographer.
• Cost & Value: At $205, it’s a premium experience with high value, considering the personalized service, multiple island stops, and wildlife encounters.

How the Tour Works: Step-by-Step

Starting Point and Duration

This private tour begins at the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Development on Nassau’s E Bay St. and lasts about four hours. The tour operates daily, with start times conveniently scheduled throughout the day, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing flexibility to fit your plans.

What’s Included

• Bottled water and rum punch to keep you refreshed
• Snacks and WiFi onboard, making the journey comfortable and fun
• Use of snorkeling equipment to explore reefs and wildlife
• The ability to customize your experience with private guides and optional activities like jetskiing or drone photography

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Island Hopping & Sightseeing:
Your adventure kicks off with a ride aboard a luxurious, well-maintained speedboat. You’ll visit Rose Island, Pearl Island, and Green Cay, where you’ll have the chance to feed turtles and observe local marine life. These stops aren’t just scenic—they’re interactive. We loved the way guides shared informative tidbits about each island’s history and environment, making the experience both fun and educational.

2. Snorkeling & Wildlife Encounters:
While at these islands, snorkeling is highly recommended, with snorkeling gear provided. You’ll likely see colorful fish, coral reefs, and perhaps even a curious turtle or two. One reviewer shared that the guides were very helpful and patient, especially with children, guiding them safely around the reefs.

3. Pig Island (Athol Island):
This is the iconic stop for swimming, feeding, and snapping photos with the famous pigs. At $45 per guest, the site fee adds extra value to the experience, making it an interactive encounter with friendly pigs that seem to enjoy the water just as much as visitors do. If pigs aren’t your thing, this stop is optional, and the tour can be tailored to your preferences.

4. Lunch on the Water:
A highlight for many is relaxing at the Antiki floating bar, enjoying a leisurely water-based lunch or drinks. Although the tour doesn’t include food, this stop offers the chance to unwind and soak in the views.

5. Scenic Return & Optional Extras:
As the tour winds down, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride back over clear waters, with panoramic views perfect for photos. Optional add-ons like jetskiing or a drone photographer can elevate this experience, providing extra adrenaline or memorable footage.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The Emphasis on Personalization and Flexibility

Unlike larger, cookie-cutter tours, this experience is private and customizable. You can decide how long to stay at each island, whether to snorkel or just relax on the boat, or skip certain stops altogether. This flexibility allows you to tailor the day to suit your pace and interests.

Safety and Professionalism

The tour boasts fully licensed and insured vessels, with certified captains and trained guides. The presence of medical personnel and lifeguards means safety is a priority, which is especially reassuring for families or less confident swimmers.

High-Quality Amenities

From WiFi and bottled water to snacks, the tour ensures comfort and entertainment. The optional drone footage adds a modern touch, capturing your adventure from above—ideal for creating lasting memories.

Value for Price

Considering the inclusion of multiple island stops, wildlife encounters, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and flexibility, many would agree that the $205 price offers good value. Think of it as an all-in-one day trip that balances adventure with comfort, and personalized service.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Reviewers consistently mention “professional and knowledgeable guides,” who go out of their way to ensure safety and enjoyment. One family noted, “The crew was helpful and patient with the kids,” highlighting how accommodating and family-friendly this tour is. Another appreciated the stunning views and the chance to swim with turtles and pigs, making it memorable for wildlife lovers.

Some travelers also cite the flexibility as a key benefit—they could choose when to leave each stop, maximizing their experience. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and WiFi means you’re well-cared-for during the trip, not just ferried around.

The optional extras, like jetskiing or drone footage, receive praise for elevating an already fantastic outing, though they are not included in the base price.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book well in advance—the tour is often booked 92 days ahead—especially during peak seasons.
• Bring your sunscreen, towels, and personal items, since these are not provided.
• Consider whether you want to visit Pig Island or skip it—it’s optional and has an additional fee.
• If you’re interested in memorable photos or videos, ask about the drone option beforehand.
• Make sure to communicate your preferences with your guide, as this tour is highly customizable.
• Be prepared to enjoy a mix of snorkeling, wildlife, and scenic views—bring your swimming gear and a sense of adventure.

The Sum Up

This Swimming Pigs, Turtles & Reef Snorkel tour by Champion Tours offers an engaging, flexible way to explore Nassau’s highlights in just half a day. It’s well-suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone craving a personalized island adventure. The combination of professional guides, stunning scenery, and interactive wildlife encounters makes it a worthwhile choice for those wanting authentic Bahamas experiences without sacrificing comfort.

While it’s a premium-priced excursion, the thoughtful touches—like the ability to customize your stops and the safety features—add to its value. Whether you want to snorkel vibrant reefs, feed playful turtles, or take iconic photos with pigs, this tour delivers a memorable day on New Providence Island.

If your goal is a seamless, engaging, and flexible adventure with plenty of wildlife and scenic charm, this private Nassau tour ticks many boxes—and leaves plenty of room for special moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is kids-friendly, and guides are helpful and patient with younger travelers, making it a good choice for families.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 hours long, covering multiple island stops, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. There is a stop at a local restaurant, and guests can purchase food at their own expense.

What is the cost per person?
The price is $205, which covers the boat, guided visits, snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and WiFi.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. You can choose which stops to visit, when to leave each stop, and add optional activities like jetskiing or drone photography.

Is there a site fee for Pig Island?
Yes, there is a $45 attraction site fee per guest for Pig Island, payable at the site.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, so you can explore the reefs comfortably.

What safety measures are in place?
The vessels are fully licensed and insured, with certified captains and medical personnel onboard at all times.

Is pickup service available?
Pickup is offered, but it’s best to check with the tour provider for your specific location.

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

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty, making it a standout choice for anyone eager to experience Nassau’s natural charm in a flexible, enjoyable way.