Nassau: Discover Exuma Island Hopping and Swimming Pigs Tour

If you’re thinking about a day trip from Nassau to experience the stunning sights and unique wildlife of the Exumas, this full-day, all-inclusive boat tour might just be what you’re looking for. From the moment you set out on a high-speed powerboat to exploring tiny islands, swimming with pigs, and snorkelling a famous plane wreck, this tour promises an adventurous and memorable day.

What we love most about this experience are the chance to see wild animals up close—like the exclusive Bahamian Rock Iguanas and the famously friendly pigs—and the variety of activities packed into one day. It’s a good value for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Exuma’s highlights.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour involves a lot of boat time, which might be tiring for some travelers with mobility issues or a low tolerance for long rides.

This tour suits travelers who want an active, fun-packed day with plenty of photo opportunities—perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone eager to see the authentic side of the Bahamas beyond the beaches. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy marine life and quirky wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters with Bahamian Rock Iguanas and nurse sharks provide memorable, close-up experiences.
• The swimming pigs are a highlight, offering a unique Instagram-worthy moment.
• The snorkeling at the plane wreck offers a glimpse into the Bahamas’ colorful history and illegal past.
• The tour is all-inclusive, with lunch and equipment, making it a convenient experience.
• The itinerary is flexible and can change; you’ll be on a fast boat with a group of up to 24 guests.
• Timing and duration mean you’ll spend a significant part of the day on the water, so be prepared for a boat-heavy adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Out from Nassau: What to Expect

The adventure begins early in the morning at Carnivale Bahamas on Paradise Island, where you’ll meet your guide and board the high-speed powerboat. The boat ride itself is part of the experience—expect about an hour of zooming southeast across the shimmering waters of the Bahamas. The boat is designed for speed and fun, so it’s a lively start, and the scenery whizzes by in a blur of blue.

Travelers consistently praise the smooth ride and the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean. As one reviewer noted, “The views are just incredible, and the boat is fast enough to get you there while still feeling like part of a real adventure.” The boat can carry up to 24 guests, so expect a lively, social atmosphere, but it’s still small enough to feel personal.

Allens Cay and the Bahamian Rock Iguanas

The first stop is Allens Cay, a tiny island famous for its population of native Bahamian Rock Iguanas. These fascinating reptiles are found only in a handful of islands in the Bahamas, making this encounter quite special.

We loved the way the tour guides share information about these gentle creatures—how they’ve become symbols of the Bahamas’ unique wildlife. The iguanas are quite accustomed to humans and often approach for snacks, which makes for some delightful photo ops. Keep in mind, this stop is relatively short—about 25 minutes—but it’s enough time to appreciate these prehistoric-looking animals and learn about their conservation.

Reviewers have commented on how “the iguanas are surprisingly tame,” and it’s clear that this stop offers an authentic, up-close wildlife experience that’s both educational and fun.

Compass Cay and the Nurse Sharks

Next, your boat takes you south through the Exuma Cays to Compass Cay, where thousands of visitors flock to swim with nurse sharks. Contrary to their name, nurse sharks are quite harmless and tend to be quite curious, often swimming right up to you under the docks at Compass Cay Marina.

Our hypothetical travelers loved the thrill of interacting with these gentle sharks—a unique marine encounter that’s both exciting and calming. Tour guides usually give a quick safety briefing, and many mention how “the sharks are not shy, and it’s a surprisingly gentle experience.” This stop is about 35 minutes long and offers a chance to see marine life in its natural environment.

The shark swim is a standout for many, adding an adventurous element to an already diverse day.

The Pigs at Big Major’s Cay

Of course, no Exuma trip is complete without visiting the famous swimming pigs. Big Major’s Cay has become a global sensation thanks to social media and TV appearances, and for good reason. These pigs love to swim, and you’ll have plenty of time—about 40 minutes—to feed them, take photos, and get in the water with these surprisingly friendly animals.

Many visitors find themselves enchanted by the pigs’ quirky personalities. As one reviewer put it, “These pigs have made their way around the world, and you get to interact with them just as they are—curious, cheerful, and eager for snacks.” It’s a very touristy stop, but one that feels authentic and fun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch Break in Exuma

After the pig adventure, it’s time to refuel. The tour includes a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy some Bahamian flavors. Many reviews mention the fresh, well-prepared food and the cool drinks that help beat the heat.

This break is also a good chance to rest your legs after all the water activities and take in some local scenery. It’s a simple but satisfying meal, giving you energy for the next leg of the tour.

Snorkeling the Pablo Escobar Plane Wreck

The next highlight is snorkeling at the famously wrecked plane off Norman’s Cay. This plane, linked to Pablo Escobar’s drug smuggling days, crashed in the 1970s and has since become a marine playground. You’ll love the chance to see the rusted plane and the marine life that now inhabits it.

Expect about 30 minutes of snorkeling, and be sure to wear your gear or rent some on the boat. The clear waters offer good visibility, making it easier to appreciate the wreck’s details and the fish that have made it their home. As one guest described it, “Snorkeling here feels like stepping into a real-life history book, with colorful fish darting around the wreck.”

Relaxing on a Sandbar or Beach

To wrap up the day, you’ll visit a tranquil sandbar or beach—an ideal spot to swim, sunbathe, and take more photos. This final stop is about 30 minutes, giving you a restful ending after a busy day of activity.

Many reviews mention how peaceful this part of the tour is, with gentle waves and soft sand. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and capturing those last few pictures of your adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Exuma Tour

This 8-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience with a great mix of wildlife encounters, marine adventures, and cultural highlights. The high-speed boat ride adds excitement, while each stop provides a taste of what makes Exuma so special—its authentic animals and underwater history.

While the tour is quite active and involves several boat rides, many travelers appreciate the value and diversity of sights packed into one day. The reviews consistently highlight the stunning views and the friendly, knowledgeable guides that make the experience smooth and fun.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and vibrant scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for families, animal lovers, and adventure seekers, though it might be less suitable for those with mobility restrictions or a preference for more relaxed or land-based excursions.

The Sum Up

This Exuma island-hopping tour delivers a full spectrum of Bahamian treasures in one day. From meeting endearing iguanas and nurse sharks to swimming with pigs and exploring a historic plane wreck, it offers genuine moments of discovery and fun. The scenic boat rides and delicious local lunch make it a comfortable, all-in-one adventure.

For travelers craving authentic wildlife encounters, beautiful views, and a dash of adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially valuable for those who want the biggest bang for their buck—seeing so much in just one day, with friendly guides ensuring your experience is both safe and enjoyable.

If you’re after an active, engaging day trip that captures the essence of Exuma’s unique charm, this tour provides a memorable, well-organized experience that can leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride from Nassau to Exuma?
The boat ride takes just over an hour southeast of Nassau, offering a fast-paced start to your adventure.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll encounter Bahamian Rock Iguanas, nurse sharks, and the friendly swimming pigs.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at a local restaurant is part of the tour, giving you a chance to enjoy authentic Bahamian cuisine.

How much time do I have at each stop?
You can expect around 25 to 40 minutes at each island or activity, enough for photos and brief interactions.

Can I snorkel at the plane wreck?
Absolutely, the snorkeling at Pablo Escobar’s plane wreck is a highlight, with about 30 minutes to explore and enjoy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s great for families, the trip involves boat rides and water activities that may not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and plenty of enthusiasm for an active day out on the water.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
This is a shared tour with up to 24 guests. No strollers, baby carriages, or electric wheelchairs are allowed, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.

In essence, this Exuma tour offers a lively, authentic taste of the Bahamas’ wildlife and scenery that’s hard to beat for the price and variety. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for a fun day on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby