The Exuma Island Hopping & Swimming Pigs Tour From Nassau promises an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Exuma Cays. Departing from Paradise Island, this guided powerboat journey offers the chance to witness Bahamian rock iguanas, swim alongside docile nurse sharks, and even interact with the famous swimming pigs. With a traditional Bahamian-style lunch and opportunities to snorkel a shipwreck, this excursion provides a well-rounded experience of the region’s unique natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re seeking an up-close encounter with wildlife or simply a day of island exploration, this tour might just be the perfect way to discover the Bahamas’ captivating beauty.
Key Points
- A guided powerboat tour through the Exuma Cays, departing from Paradise Island, showcasing diverse natural attractions and wildlife.
- Highlights include seeing Bahamian rock iguanas, swimming with nurse sharks, and visiting the famous swimming pigs on Big Major Cay.
- The full-day excursion includes a traditional Bahamian-style lunch, snacks, water, and snorkeling equipment.
- Opportunities to observe the physical features, adaptations, and behavior of the endangered Bahamian rock iguanas in their natural habitat.
- Chance to swim with the calm and non-aggressive nurse sharks in the shallow coastal waters of Compass Cay.
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Overview of the Tour
This guided tour from Paradise Island takes visitors on a powerboat journey through the Exuma Cays, showcasing the region’s diverse natural attractions and wildlife.
Key highlights include seeing rare Bahamian rock iguanas, swimming with nurse sharks, and visiting the famous swimming pigs. Travelers will also have the chance to snorkel around a shipwreck and spend time relaxing on the beach.
The full-day excursion includes a local Bahamian-style lunch, as well as snacks, water, and snorkeling equipment.
With a maximum capacity of 25 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and immersive experience in the stunning Exuma archipelago, departing daily from the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal.
Highlights of the Itinerary
The tour begins at Allen Cay, where travelers can spot the rare Bahamian rock iguanas that call this island home.
Next, the group heads to Compass Cay, where they’ll have the chance to swim among the docile nurse sharks.
After a delicious Bahamian-style lunch on Great Exuma, it’s off to the famous Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach, to feed and swim with the friendly swimming pigs.
The final stop is Normans Cay, where travelers can snorkel around a shipwreck and explore the vibrant marine life.
Throughout the day, guests will enjoy snacks, local beer, and ample time to swim, relax, and soak up the stunning Exuma scenery.
Visiting Allen Cay and Iguanas
After exploring the nurse sharks at Compass Cay, the tour heads to Allen Cay, home to a unique population of Bahamian rock iguanas.
These prehistoric-looking lizards can be spotted basking on the rocks or scurrying across the island’s sandy shores. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these rare creatures up close and learn about their fascinating biology and behavior.
The guide provides insights into:
- The iguanas’ physical features, including their spiny skin and long tails
- Their adaptations to the island’s hot, dry environment
- Their social structures and communication methods
- Conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable species
Seeing the iguanas in their natural habitat is a highlight of the island hopping adventure.
Swimming With Nurse Sharks
Next, the tour heads to Compass Cay, where visitors have the opportunity to swim alongside a group of docile nurse sharks. These large, sedentary sharks are known for their calm demeanor and pose little threat to humans. Guided by the tour operator, guests can enter the shallow water and observe the sharks’ graceful movements up close, learning about their unique adaptations and the importance of shark conservation efforts in the Bahamas.
| Shark Traits | Habitat | Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| Large Size | Shallow Coastal Waters | Calm and Non-Aggressive |
| Flat Bodies | Coral Reefs | Sedentary and Slow-Moving |
| Rounded Snouts | Estuaries | Scavenger Feeding Habits |
| Smooth Skin | Mangrove Ecosystems | Importance in Ecosystem Balance |
| No Teeth | Bahamas Archipelago | Conservation Efforts Needed |
Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Following the visit to Compass Cay, the tour participants make their way to a local restaurant on Great Exuma for a traditional Bahamian-style lunch.
The menu features a range of regional specialties, providing travelers with an opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of the Exuma Islands. The lunch spread may include:
- Conch salad – a fresh, bright dish featuring the local conch seafood
- Peas ‘n’ rice – a classic Bahamian side dish made with pigeon peas and rice
- Cracked lobster – succulent lobster prepared in the island’s signature style
- Guava duff – a sweet dessert pastry filled with the tropical guava fruit
The hearty, flavorful lunch fuels the group for the remainder of their island hopping adventure.
Feeding the Swimming Pigs
From the local restaurant, the group makes their way to the famous Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach, to interact with the renowned swimming pigs.
Travelers are greeted by these friendly, curious creatures who eagerly await the arrival of visitors bearing their favorite snacks. The tour guide provides instructions on how to properly feed the pigs, advising guests to approach slowly and offer the food gently by hand.
Visitors can then get up close and personal, petting and posing for photos with the pigs as they playfully splash in the shallow waters. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness these unique animals in their natural habitat and interact with them in such an intimate setting.
Snorkeling Around the Shipwreck
Leaving the swimming pigs behind, the group proceeds to Normans Cay to explore the remains of a shipwreck just off the island’s coast.
Donning their snorkeling gear, travelers glide effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the diverse marine life that has made the submerged vessel its home. From colorful schools of tropical fish to the occasional reef shark, the wreck site offers a captivating glimpse into the underwater world.
The tour highlights include:
- Observing a vibrant coral reef that has formed around the wreck
- Spotting schools of angelfish, parrotfish, and other tropical species
- Exploring the nooks and crannies of the partially submerged vessel
- Encountering curious marine life that have made the wreck their habitat
Beach Time and Sandbar Swimming
After exploring the shipwreck, the group heads to a nearby sandbar for some relaxing beach time and swimming.
They wade into the shallow, crystal-clear waters, feeling the soft, powdery sand beneath their feet. The group takes time to soak up the sun, snap photos, and enjoy the tranquil Bahamian setting.
The shallow water is perfect for swimming and wading, allowing everyone to cool off and simply relax. With the stunning turquoise hues of the ocean as the backdrop, the sandbar provides an idyllic spot to unwind after the day’s adventures.
Guests have the chance to take in the natural beauty of Exuma before heading back to Nassau, satisfied with the incredible experiences of the day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is 25 travelers. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as participants explore the islands, swim with nurse sharks, and interact with the famous swimming pigs.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for this tour. Visitors are advised to wear casual, comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for getting wet. Swimsuits, hats, and sunscreen are recommended to make the most of the water activities.
What Happens in Case of Bad Weather?
In case of bad weather, the tour operator will reschedule the trip or provide a full refund. They prioritize the safety and comfort of guests, so the tour won’t proceed if conditions are unsafe or unpleasant.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snorkeling equipment if preferred, though the tour provides quality snorkeling gear for all participants. This allows everyone to fully enjoy the underwater sights without hassle.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?
The tour includes all necessary fees and taxes. No additional costs are required during the tour, as the package covers admission fees, equipment, and transportation. Travelers can enjoy the experience without worrying about extra charges.
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Recap
The Exuma Island Hopping & Swimming Pigs Tour from Nassau offers an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery in the Bahamas.
Guests can observe rare iguanas, swim with nurse sharks, savor a local lunch, feed the famous swimming pigs, and snorkel around a shipwreck – all while immersed in the islands’ stunning natural beauty.
This tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Exuma Cays’ unique ecosystems and vibrant Bahamian culture.
