Exuma Island Hopping Swimming Pigs Tour with Lunch from Nassau

If you’re planning a trip to the Bahamas and want a fun, full-day adventure that covers multiple highlights in one go, this Exuma Island Hopping Tour with swimming pigs from Nassau could be just what you’re after.

It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see the famous swimming pigs, interact with local wildlife, and explore the stunning islands aboard a speedy powerboat. Our review synthesizes what travelers love, what to expect, and how to get the most value from this experience.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the variety of stops—ranging from iguana sightings to shark swimming—and the delicious Bahamian-style lunch. These elements contribute to a well-rounded day that balances adventure, wildlife encounters, and relaxation.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long boat ride to reach the Exumas, which can be quite a stretch for those prone to seasickness or with limited stamina. The tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of a cruise and are comfortable with a full day on the water.

This experience tends to appeal most to those who want a comprehensive Bahamian adventure that packs in multiple attractions, perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone keen on experiencing the iconic swimming pigs without multiple separate trips.

Key Points

• All-in-one day adventure that covers several islands and wildlife encounters
• Speedy powerboat transportation saves time and increases fun
• Wide variety of stops including iguanas, nurse sharks, pigs, and a sunken plane wreck
• Delicious Bahamian lunch included, with options for drinks and snacks
• Tour is well-reviewed for staff friendliness, organization, and value
• Long boat ride to Exuma is part of the experience, so be prepared

The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

This tour, operated by Born Free Charters, offers a well-organized, full-day itinerary that begins early in the morning (check-in at 8:30 am) and returns in the late afternoon. From the moment you arrive at the marina, you’re in for an exciting day of island-hopping, wildlife encounters, and scenic views.

The Journey Begins: Fast-Paced Travel

Starting from Nassau’s Sterling Marina, the first thing that hits you is the speed of the boat—be ready for a thrill. The powerboat zips across the water, making the journey between islands swift and exhilarating. This rapid transit is what allows you to visit so many spots within a single day, but it also means the ride can be quite windy and chilly, so bringing a light jacket or scarf is a smart move.

Allen Cay: Meeting the Bahamian Iguanas

Your first stop, Allen Cay, is a tiny island where Bahamian rock iguanas roam freely. These unique creatures are endemic to just a few islands, making this a rare wildlife sight. They’re quite accustomed to visitors, and many travelers enjoy feeding and photographing these prehistoric-looking lizards. The experience is relaxed, and it’s easy to spend about 20 minutes observing these fascinating animals. Reviewers appreciate how well-maintained and accessible this stop is, describing it as a chance to see something you can’t find elsewhere.

Compass Cay: Swimming with Nurse Sharks

Next, the boat heads to Compass Cay, famed for its friendly nurse sharks. Contrary to their intimidating reputation, these sharks are gentle and used to human interaction. Swimmers can feed and snorkel alongside them, which many describe as a surreal experience. The shallow waters make it accessible for most, and the staff often help newcomers feel comfortable. Reviewers frequently mention the ““amazing”” feeling of swimming with sharks in such calm surroundings and appreciate how the crew makes the encounter safe and fun.

Exuma: Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

After a couple of wildlife stops, it’s time for some sustenance. The tour includes a Bahamas-style buffet lunch at a local restaurant on Great Exuma. The meal is described as delicious and filling, providing a good break before the day’s main event. Many reviews highlight the high quality of the food, with some calling it ““amazing”” and ““worth every penny.”” The lunch also provides a chance to unwind and mingle with fellow travelers, sharing excitement about the upcoming pig encounter.

Pig Beach: The Iconic Swimming Pigs

The highlight for most visitors is the swimming pigs at Big Major’s Cay, affectionately called “Pig Beach.” These adorable animals have gained worldwide fame thanks to TV shows and social media. Here, you’ll get approximately 45 minutes to feed, swim, and take photos with the pigs. Many reviews praise the pigs’ friendly nature and the fun of watching them wade into the water eager for treats. Some mention that the pigs can be quite the photo op, making this a memorable part of the trip.

Norman’s Cay: Snorkel at a Wreck

Next, you’ll visit Norman’s Cay, where you can snorkel around a plane wreck that’s said to have belonged to Pablo Escobar’s drug smuggling days. The wreck is accessible and provides an interesting underwater scene. Several travelers mention the wreck as a fun, quirky highlight, and some even find the story behind it adds a little extra intrigue to the experience.

Final Relaxation: Beach or Sandbar Stop

To cap off the day, the boat makes a final stop at a scenic sandbar or quiet beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or take more photos before heading back to Nassau. Reviewers love this peaceful pause, which offers a chance to soak in the stunning scenery and enjoy some leisure time after a busy day.

How the Itinerary Comes Together

This tour offers a balance of wildlife encounters, scenic stops, and a hearty meal. Each location is given enough time—around 20 to 45 minutes—to explore without feeling rushed. The long boat ride to the Exumas is part of the adventure, and travelers often comment on the surprisingly smooth ride despite the speed, thanks to the experienced crew.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with onboard amenities such as restrooms, snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks. The staff receives frequent praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness, making even those new to such excursions feel at ease.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention how well-organized and value-packed this tour is. For instance, one happy traveler said, “From the moment you check in till the moment you step back on the dock, you have nothing but fun. The entire crew was fantastic.” Others highlight the quality of the lunch and the wide variety of wildlife they encountered.

The speedboat rides earn mixed reactions—most love the thrill, but some find it a bit chilly or loud, especially on windy days. Pack accordingly if you’re sensitive to cold or wind.

Several reviews mention that time at each stop feels just right—neither too rushed nor too long—thanks to the efficient schedule and knowledgeable guides. However, a few travelers felt the long ride meant less time at each attraction, which is something to consider if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more leisurely stops.

Value and Pricing: Is It Worth It?

At around $438.90 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but many reviews agree it offers great value given the number of attractions, the quality of the guides, and the included lunch. The combination of wildlife, scenic beauty, and entertainment in one day provides a comprehensive Bahamian experience. For travelers eager to check off multiple bucket-list sights in a single trip, this tour offers a convenient, well-organized option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for those who don’t mind a full day on the water and want to see as much as possible in a single trip. It’s especially suitable for wildlife lovers, families, and travelers who enjoy adventure and scenic vistas. It’s less ideal for cruise ship passengers or anyone with limited mobility or seasickness concerns, given the long boat ride and active stops.

Final Thoughts

This Exuma Island Hopping Tour delivers a balanced blend of adventure, wildlife, and local flavor. It stands out due to its speedy transport, allowing you to visit multiple islands and attractions in just one day. The wildlife encounters, especially with the swimming pigs and nurse sharks, are authentic and memorable, while the included lunch adds good value to the overall experience.

While the boat ride is lengthy, the smoothness and professionalism of the crew help make it more enjoyable. The stops are well spread out, giving enough time for photos, snorkeling, or simply relaxing. If you’re looking for an active, fun-filled day that captures the essence of the Bahamas’ natural beauty and playful spirit, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially for those with children who can enjoy wildlife encounters and beach time. Just note the boat ride can be long, so bring snacks and be prepared for wind and sun.

How long is the boat ride to the Exumas?
The ride is approximately 2 hours each way, which is part of what makes it a full-day tour. Prepare for some wind and possibly bring a jacket.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a towel, sun protection, a hat, and a light jacket or sweatshirt for the boat ride. Some guests also find a waterproof camera helpful.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a Bahamian-style buffet lunch is included, along with snacks, soda, bottled water, and local beers (for those over 18).

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Most stops are around 20 to 45 minutes, enough to get a good experience without feeling rushed.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkel gear is provided, and you can snorkel at Norman’s Cay around the plane wreck.

Are pets or pregnant travelers allowed?
Pregnant travelers are not recommended for this tour, likely due to the long boat rides and active stops.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour typically accommodates up to 25 travelers, maintaining a personalized experience.

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

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.

In sum, this tour offers a lively, well-rounded taste of the Exumas’ best-loved sights, wildlife, and flavors, wrapped up in a single, energetic day. It’s a great pick for those who love adventure, animals, and scenic beauty—all in one memorable package.