Private Charter for snorkeling, swimming pigs, turtles & fishing….

Thinking about a day out on the water in the Bahamas? This private 4-hour boat trip on New Providence Island offers a mix of snorkeling, swimming with pigs and turtles, and fishing, all tailored to your group’s interests. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but a detailed review of the offerings and reviews suggests it’s a flexible experience with both highlights and some caveats.

What we love about this trip are the opportunity for personalized activities—whether you’re into snorkeling, relaxing on white sand beaches, or hanging out with friendly pigs and turtles. The boat itself is modern and well-equipped, offering a comfortable space to enjoy the day.

A notable advantage is the full private experience, meaning you’re not sharing your adventure with strangers, which can make for a more relaxed and flexible outing.

A possible drawback is the mixed reviews—some travelers have expressed concerns about the long boat ride and safety during the trip. Accuracy in expectations is key here, especially regarding the quality of the island stops. This tour might be best suited for those who prioritize private, customizable outings and are comfortable with the idea of a longer boat ride to some of the attractions.

If you’re looking for a flexible, adventure-packed half-day at sea that you can tailor, this tour could be a good fit—just keep an eye on your expectations, especially regarding logistics and safety.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, providing a relaxed, customizable day.
• Versatile Activities: Options include snorkeling, swimming with turtles or pigs, fishing, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches.
• Modern Vessel: The 35′ Donzi Marine boat features a bathroom, Bluetooth, lounge space, and seating for comfort.
• Cost and Value: At $850 per group (up to 8), it offers a private, flexible day out, but be aware that some reviews report safety concerns during the boat ride.
• Included Gear: Snorkeling and fishing equipment are provided, along with bottled water and ice.
• Duration: Around four hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

A Detailed Review of the Experience

The Boat and Crew

You’ll start your adventure from the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, boarding a well-maintained 35-foot Donzi Marine center console. The boat design emphasizes comfort and safety, with a dedicated restroom inside the console—a thoughtful feature after a few hours on the water. The boat’s multimedia system with Bluetooth means you can listen to your favorite tunes while cruising, adding a personal touch to your outing.

Capt. Javano and his crew are tasked with making your experience enjoyable. From reviews, it’s clear that the crew aims to be helpful, but the quality of the trip can vary depending on weather and sea conditions. The boat can comfortably cater to up to 6 anglers, but with a group of 8, there’s still room to spread out.

Itinerary and Activities

The customized nature of this private charter means your day can be tailored to your preferences. Generally, the trip includes options such as:

• Snorkeling: You’ll be given snorkeling gear, and the crew can guide you to spots with decent marine life, making the most of the Bahamas’ clear waters.
• Swimming with Turtles or Pigs: Depending on your interests, you might visit spots where pigs swim freely, or turtle-friendly areas—though one review indicates some disappointment with the pig interaction, citing a long boat ride to an island that’s costly to access.
• Fishing: The boat is equipped with fishing gear, promising a chance to catch local species if you’re into angling.
• Beach Relaxation: For those who prefer lounging, the boat can cruise to white sandy beaches or quiet islands, ideal for soaking up sun and enjoying the scenery.

Experience Quality and Authenticity

The flexibility of this tour is its main strength. You and your group can choose what activities appeal most, which is perfect for families or groups with varied interests. One reviewer appreciated this, noting, “Captain Javano will do his best to make sure you have a fun day full of fishing, snorkeling, swimming pigs, and turtles, or whatever you choose.”

However, some reviews have raised safety concerns, especially regarding the long boat ride to some islands. One traveler mentioned, “Sped back causing my family to be shot up and slam back down on the boat causing two injuries,” which underscores the importance of safety awareness. Always discuss safety protocols with the crew before setting out.

Pricing and What’s Included

At $850 for a group of up to 8, this experience offers excellent privacy and customization, assuming you prioritize these features. The price includes:

• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Fishing gear
• Cooler with bottled water and ice
• A full bathroom in the console
• Multimedia system for entertainment

What’s not included are alcoholic beverages and food, unless you request them in advance. There’s also an optional $30 per person fee for swimming pigs, which some may find worthwhile, though some reviews suggest the pig encounter may not meet expectations given the long ride to the island.

Duration and Logistics

The trip lasts approximately 4 hours, which is enough time to enjoy multiple activities without feeling rushed. Starting at the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, the tour ends back at the same point, making logistics straightforward. The tour is booked mostly 10 days in advance, indicating good demand, but it’s advisable to plan ahead.

Review Insights

Of the 7 reviews, most are neutral or positive, with a few noting minor issues. One reviewer said, “Long boat ride to an island that cost $ to even step on,” highlighting that some stops may not be worth the extra time or expense. Conversely, others appreciated the flexibility, with one stating, “You get to choose from snorkeling, swimming with turtles or pigs, fishing, or just relaxing.” The mixed feedback emphasizes that this tour’s value depends heavily on expectations and preferences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Bahamas boat trip is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience on the water. It’s perfect for groups that prioritize privacy, enjoy snorkeling and fishing, or want to visit beaches and spots that aren’t crowded. However, it might not be the best choice for those seeking a structured tour or worried about safety on longer boat rides.

It’s also suited for travelers who are comfortable with the occasional unpredictability, understanding that some stops may not meet all expectations, especially regarding the pig swim. If you’re looking for a straightforward, relaxing day with options to customize, this tour could fit the bill.

Final Thoughts

This Bahamas private boat tour offers an appealing mix of activities and the chance to create a day tailored to your group’s interests. The boat’s modern amenities and the flexibility to choose stops make it a compelling option for an authentic water adventure. Still, it’s wise to go into it with realistic expectations, especially regarding safety and the quality of island stops.

The cost reflects exclusivity and customization, making it worthwhile for those wanting a private experience rather than a crowded group tour. If you’re eager to enjoy snorkeling, possibly swim with turtles or pigs, and do some fishing—all in a relaxed, private setting—this trip could be a memorable highlight of your Bahamas visit.

FAQs

Is this a private tour? Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, which allows for personalized activities and a relaxed atmosphere.

What activities are included? You can choose snorkeling, swimming with turtles or pigs, fishing, or simply relaxing on beaches. Equipment for snorkeling and fishing is provided.

How long is the trip? About 4 hours, giving enough time for multiple activities without feeling rushed.

Are food and drinks included? Not unless requested; the tour provides bottled water and ice but not food or alcohol.

What are the safety concerns? Some reviews mention safety issues during the boat ride, so discuss safety measures with your captain and stay alert during the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This private Bahamas boat tour can be a fun, adaptable way to explore some of the island’s highlights, especially if you value privacy and customization. Just remember to clarify safety protocols and set realistic expectations, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable day on the water.