3 Islands Tour, Swim with Pigs, Turtles, Snorkelling & lunch

Introduction

Our review looks at the popular 3 Islands Tour offered by BahaWaterTours on New Providence Island, Bahamas, which has earned rave reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating from nearly 300 travelers. If you’re craving a mix of snorkelling, wildlife encounters, and sun-soaked beaches, this tour delivers just that — in about four hours for $175 per person.

What we especially like about this experience is how it combines adventure and relaxation. You’ll get to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside sea turtles, and then head to Rose Island for some iconic pig-swimming — a picture-perfect moment. Plus, the professional guides and value-packed lunch make it stand out.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as some reviews note, the actual time spent at each site can vary, especially if weather affects visibility or conditions. It’s important to go into this with flexible expectations and a sense of adventure. This tour suits travelers looking for a fun, family-friendly day exploring the natural beauty of the Bahamas with a bit of quirky charm thrown in.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and beach relaxation in a single trip.
• Great Value: For $175, you get multiple stops, snorkel gear, and lunch included.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The crew, especially guides like Lee, TJ, and Rio, are praised for their friendliness, patience, and local insights.
• Flexible & Fun: Schedules are adaptable, and the mix of activities appeals to a broad range of travelers.
• Authentic Encounters: Swimming with turtles and pigs makes for memorable, once-in-a-lifetime moments.
• Weather-Dependent: Some reviews mention that weather can influence how much you see, especially at the reefs.

A Full Breakdown of the 3 Islands Tour Experience

Overview of the Tour

This tour is a well-rounded way to see some of the Bahamas’ highlights in a short window — roughly four hours for $175. It’s designed for those who want more than just lounging on the beach; it offers snorkeling, wildlife interactions, and scenic boat rides. The tour uses a mobile ticket system and is operated by BahaWaterTours, a company that seems to run multiple boats to keep things smooth and reliable.

Starting Point: Atlantis Bahamas

Your adventure begins with a boat ride from the Atlantis Bahamas, a striking sight. The highlight here is the boat passing through the iconic Atlantis tunnel, perfect for photos and setting the tone for a fun day. This part is quick — around 30 minutes — but it’s a great way to get excited about the islands ahead. It’s free to explore the Atlantis area from the boat, offering a glimpse of the luxurious resort backdrop.

Stop 1: PEARL Island & Coral Reefs

The second stop takes you to PEARL Island, where the focus is on snorkeling among coral reefs. Here, you’ll see exotic fish and marine life, which many reviews describe as “amazing” and “beautiful.” The reefs are shallow enough for an easy snorkel, even for beginners, and the provided masks and life jackets make it straightforward.

Reviewers consistently mention the vivid fish and reefs, with one noting “we saw a big sea turtle,” though some travelers report not always spotting turtles during their trip. The coral reefs are clearly a highlight, and the free admission makes this stop a particularly good value.

Stop 2: Green Turtle Cay — Swimming with Turtles

Next, the boat heads to Green Turtle Cay for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat. This is one of the tour’s most praised features — many reviewers mention how enchanting it is to be so close to these gentle creatures.

The experience typically lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to snorkel and observe the turtles. Guides are attentive, ensuring safety and respect for the wildlife, which is key for such encounters. Several reviews describe it as “a really great experience,” with some noting that the guides personally scout for turtles until they find them, demonstrating a high level of care and patience.

Stop 3: Rose Island — Swimming Pigs & Beach Relaxation

The final and most iconic stop is Rose Island, where you get the chance to swim with the famous Bahamas pigs. It’s a crowd-pleaser, often described as “tons of fun” and “a picture-perfect moment.” The pigs are friendly, and although some reviews mention they can be a little aggressive if food is involved, guides are always watching for safety.

This stop lasts a generous two hours, allowing plenty of time to feed the pigs, take photos, and enjoy the secluded beaches. Many visitors also opt for kayaking or paddleboarding, which are available for added fun. Some travelers note that the pigs can be big and fast, so a bit of caution is wise, especially for children.

Lunch and Relaxation: The floating bar at Rose Island offers good food and drinks, with options like burgers, chicken, and wings. Reviewers frequently mention the delicious food and friendly service, which adds to the overall value. Be aware that drinks can be pricey, but credit cards are accepted, making it easier to indulge.

What We Loved About the Tour

The guides and crew consistently receive praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge. Many reviews mention Captain TJ, Captain Lee, and Rio as being particularly attentive, fun, and helpful, which keeps the trip smooth and enjoyable even if minor delays occur.

The variety of activities—snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and beach lounging—keeps the tour engaging. The authentic interactions with wildlife, especially swimming with turtles and pigs, stand out as memorable highlights. Several reviewers remark on how these moments are “once in a lifetime,” emphasizing the unique charm of this trip.

The value for money is another strong point. For $175, you not only get several stops and activities but also snorkel gear, lunch, and drinks included. The reviews frequently mention that the price is reasonable given the scope of experiences.

Practical Considerations: What to Expect

The tour lasts around four hours, which flies by if you’re engaged in the activities. While most travelers find the schedule well-paced, some reviews note that time at Rose Island can sometimes feel shorter than planned, especially if the weather isn’t ideal.

The group size is capped at 29 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The boat itself is described as nice and comfortable, making the journey part of the fun rather than a chore.

Weather can influence the visibility at the reefs and the ability to swim with pigs or turtles. Several reviews mention that if the water is murky or cold, guides may choose not to take you to certain sites for safety and enjoyment reasons. Flexibility and understanding from travelers are appreciated here.

The Value of This Experience

At $175, this tour offers quite a full day of adventure packed into just four hours. The all-inclusive approach—covering gear, lunch, and multiple stops—means fewer surprises or extra costs along the way. Many guests consider it excellent value, especially considering the quality of wildlife encounters and the professionalism of guides.

The positive reviews reinforce that this tour is well-organized, fun, and family-friendly, with many travelers saying it exceeded their expectations. The ability to see turtles in the wild, feed pigs in a natural setting, and enjoy beautiful reefs makes this a standout.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a fun-filled day that combines wildlife, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. It suits those with a sense of adventure and patience, as weather conditions can affect which activities are possible on the day.

If you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one experience that doesn’t skimp on sights or fun, this tour checks all the boxes. Those who value local guides and authentic encounters will find themselves especially pleased.

The Sum Up

The 3 Islands Tour by BahaWaterTours offers an excellent way to explore some of the Bahamas’ most iconic sights in a short time. It’s packed with memorable moments: swimming with turtles, feeding pigs, and snorkeling among vibrant reefs. With friendly guides and a good value for the price, it’s a trip that suits travelers craving a well-rounded, adventurous day in the Bahamas.

While weather can influence how much you see and do, the overall experience seems to deliver consistent joy and authentic encounters. It’s best for those who enjoy active outings, wildlife viewing, and a mix of relaxation and fun. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or solo, this tour provides a lively taste of island life that’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves plenty of time to relax afterward.

What is included in the price?
For $175 per person, the tour includes snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, and the boat ride. The stops at reefs, turtle habitat, and pig island are all part of the package.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews describe it as family-friendly. However, children should be cautious around the pigs due to their size and speed, and parents should consider weather conditions affecting snorkeling.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Be prepared for some activities to be adjusted if visibility or water conditions are poor.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 29 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and less crowded.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
While masks and life jackets are provided, you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer a specific fit or mask style.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks at the floating bar can be pricey, but credit cards are accepted, and tips for guides are appreciated.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a lively, engaging day that covers the Bahamas’ highlights with friendly guides, great wildlife encounters, and good value.

In essence, this tour offers a vibrant, fun, and varied day out that captures the spirit of the Bahamas — perfect for adventure-seekers and wildlife lovers alike.