Exotic half day private charters to Rose Island, Pigs and Turtles

Planning a trip to Nassau and looking for an adventure that combines wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and personalized service? This private boat tour to Rose Island offers just that—an intimate four-hour escape where you can swim with pigs, spot sea turtles, and relax on your own slice of Bahamian paradise.

It’s a popular choice, consistently rated 5 stars by travelers who want a memorable, authentic experience without the crowds.

We love that this tour is fully private, meaning your family or group can enjoy the day without noisy strangers. The guides, Antoine and Chris, earn high praise for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the day both fun and informative. Plus, the chance to see some of Nassau’s most beautiful sights from the water—luxury homes, lush golf courses, and vibrant harbors—adds a special touch.

A potential consideration is the cost—at $1,020 for up to 9 people, it’s not the cheapest option around. However, given the exclusivity, personalized service, and unique experiences, most find it offers excellent value, especially for those seeking a flexible and memorable day on the water.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize privacy, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting an authentic Bahamian adventure with the convenience of a private boat.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Exclusively for your group, with a dedicated captain and flexible itinerary.
• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with pigs and spot sea turtles in calm, shallow waters.
• Stunning Views: Pass luxury homes, golf courses, and Nassau’s harbor from the water.
• Includes Snorkeling & Snacks: Use of snorkeling gear, bottled water, snacks, and Bahama Mamas are all included.
• Flexible & Relaxing: Four hours of freedom to explore, relax, and enjoy without rushing.
• Cost & Booking: Priced at $1,020 for up to 9 guests, booked on average 17 days in advance.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Tour Overview

Your adventure begins at Bayshore Marina on East Bay Street in Nassau. From there, your captain will escort you to the boat, setting the scene for a smooth, relaxed start. Before leaving Nassau’s busy port, you’ll get a quick sightseeing tour—glimpse luxury homes, upscale hotels, and Nassau’s scenic golf courses. This gives a taste of the local landscape and sets the tone for the day ahead.

Rose Island and the Scenic Boat Ride

Once underway, the boat ride itself becomes part of the excitement. The water views are impressive, with a chance to appreciate Nassau’s skyline from the sea. This part of the trip is perfect for snapping photos of the turquoise waters and perhaps catching sight of marine life if you’re lucky.

Stop 1: Feeding the Pigs on a Secluded Island

The star of the trip is the visit to the island where you can feed the famous swimming pigs. For around $40 at the location, you’ll get the chance to see these friendly animals up close and even splash around with them. The experience of standing in shallow waters with pigs swimming around you is both surreal and joyful. As one reviewer put it, “We went to an island to feed the pigs, and it was one of the most memorable moments of our trip.”

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Next, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters, exploring the vibrant underwater world. The provided snorkeling gear makes it easy to see fish, coral, and perhaps even the elegant presence of a sea turtle. We loved the way guides help point out interesting marine features, making the experience accessible for all skill levels.

Visiting a Private Beach

One of the highlights is relaxing on a private beach where you’ll have the space to unwind without crowds. The reviews consistently mention how beautiful and peaceful the setting is—an ideal spot for lounging, taking photos, or just listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.

Encounter with Sea Turtles

Spotting a sea turtle in its natural habitat is often a highlight for visitors. The tour emphasizes gentle, respectful wildlife viewing, which contributes to a sense of harmony with nature. The presence of turtles often relaxes visitors, creating an almost meditative experience.

Return and Ending the Tour

After roughly four hours, your boat will head back to Nassau, passing by more scenic sights. The relaxed pace ensures you’re not rushed, and the crew is happy to answer questions or share stories along the way.

What Travelers Say

The overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect the quality of the guides and the unique nature of the experience. One guest called it “the highlight of our trip,” praising Antoine and Chris for their hospitality and knowledge. Many mention the “beautiful, private beaches” and the “relaxing, fun day” that was perfect for families. The ability to customize the experience makes this tour appealing—whether you want to snorkel, feed pigs, or simply lounge.

The tour’s value lies in its exclusivity and the chance to create personal memories. For families or small groups seeking a more intimate, authentic adventure, this trip offers a wonderful balance of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and relaxed luxury.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation & Meeting Point: The tour departs from Bayshore Marina, easily accessible from Nassau. The boat is private, with comfortable seating for up to 8 guests, ensuring everyone has plenty of space.

Duration & Timing: Lasts about 4 hours, allowing enough time for multiple stops without feeling rushed. Booking 17 days in advance is common, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.

Pricing & Value: At $1,020 for up to 9 people, the price breaks down to roughly $113 per person—considerable value given the personalized service, wildlife encounters, and exclusive beaches.

What’s Included: Snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks, and unlimited Bahama Mamas mean you can focus on enjoying the day without extra expenses. Note that lunch is not included, but with such a relaxed schedule, many guests bring their own or plan to eat after the tour.

Weather & Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent; in case of poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available if you book at least 24 hours in advance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want more than just a typical sightseeing cruise. If you’re interested in wildlife, enjoy snorkeling, and value private, flexible experiences, you’ll find this tour perfect. Families with kids love the safe and friendly environment, while couples or small groups will appreciate the exclusivity and personalized attention.

Those looking for a laid-back, scenic day with the chance to meet pigs, turtles, and enjoy pristine beaches will find this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowded tourist spots and instead seek a genuine, memorable encounter with Nassau’s waters.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families. The relaxed pace and friendly nature of the experiences make it a good choice for kids, especially those who enjoy wildlife and water activities.

How many people can fit in the boat?
The boat comfortably seats 8 guests, making it perfect for small groups or families. The price is for the entire boat, so you won’t be sharing with strangers.

What is the cost for swimming pigs?
Feeding the pigs costs an additional $40 at the location, which is separate from the main tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, towels, and any personal items. Since snacks and water are provided, you can skip packing extra unless you want specific drinks or food.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are free, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if needed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. The tour stops at a beachside restaurant where you might choose to dine after the tour.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 17 days ahead, so plan early to secure your preferred date, especially during peak seasons.

To sum it up, this private tour to Rose Island offers an excellent blend of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation—all in a small, intimate setting. It’s a standout choice for travelers seeking a personalized Bahamian adventure that goes beyond the usual. Whether you’re excited to swim with pigs, see turtles, or just unwind on a remote beach, this experience delivers genuine fun and beautiful memories.