Nassau: Discover Exuma Island Hopping and Swimming Pigs Tour

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that marries wildlife encounters, striking scenery, and a taste of Bahamian culture, the Exuma Island Hopping and Swimming Pigs Tour might just be what you need. Based out of Nassau, this 8-hour trip offers a mix of unique experiences that appeal to travelers craving authentic moments away from the usual tourist spots. From playful pigs to historic wrecks, there’s plenty to see and do — making it a popular choice with an impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating from 22 reviews.

What we particularly like about this tour is its carefully curated itinerary, which balances adventure with relaxation. The stops at Allens Cay and the swimming pigs on Big Major’s Cay are highlights, but the visit to the Pablo Escobar plane wreck and the chance to meet Bahamanian Rock Iguanas add layers of excitement and cultural intrigue. A potential drawback, however, is that it’s a shared tour**, meaning you’ll be sharing your day with up to 24 other travelers — which can sometimes mean a little less flexibility.

This tour suits those eager to experience the most iconic sights of Exuma without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, all-inclusive day with plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife encounters, and tropical relaxation.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with nurse sharks and feed the world-famous swimming pigs.
• Historical Interest: Snorkel at Pablo Escobar’s sunken plane wreck from the 1970s.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy a hearty Bahamian buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
• Varied Scenery: Experience island wildlife, beaches, sandbars, and colorful reefs.
• Time Management: Well-structured itinerary with a good balance of activities.
• Group Size & Comfort: Up to 24 guests with shared transportation; some might find the boat ride speed a bit bumpy.

The day begins on Paradise Island at Carnivale Bahamas, where you’ll meet your guide and board a high-speed powerboat. The boat ride itself is a thrill — clocking in at just over an hour as you head southeast across the turquoise waters toward your first stop, Allens Cay. Here, the highlight is undoubtedly the Bahamanian Rock Iguanas. These quirky creatures are exclusive to a few small islands, and seeing them in their natural habitat is a genuine treat.

The journey continues south through the Exuma Cays, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and stunning islands. The next stop, Compass Cay, is famous for friendly nurse sharks that comfortably swim under the docks of the marina. According to reviews, this is a highlight: “We were at the really swimming pigs on Exuma. Also fed iguanas and stroked small sharks,” shares one happy traveler. The sharks are accustomed to human interaction, making this a safe and memorable experience.

The famous swimming pigs at Big Major’s Cay are next. These pigs have become global icons thanks to social media and TV appearances, and their adorable antics will likely steal your heart. Many visitors love the chance to feed and swim with them, capturing plenty of photos — just don’t forget to bring your camera. One reviewer called it a “huge experience,” emphasizing how much fun they had.

After working up an appetite, you’ll head to a local restaurant for a buffet lunch. The chance to enjoy Bahamian flavors in a relaxed setting is a perfect pause before the afternoon activities.

Post-lunch, the tour shifts gears into snorkeling. The highlight here is Pablo Escobar’s sunken plane, which crashed in the 1970s and is steeped in colorful stories of drug trafficking. Snorkelers can expect to see the aircraft wreck, which has become a vibrant artificial reef hosting marine life. For many, this stop offers both a historical curiosity and an opportunity to observe underwater life.

The final stop is a tranquil sandbar or beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and take photos. It’s a peaceful way to wind down after an action-packed day, with stunning views and clear waters perfect for a last swim.

Starting at Carnivale Bahamas, the adventure kicks off with the speedboat ride—roughly an hour — a lively ride that sets the tone for the day. The boat’s speed is part of the fun, but some reviewees mention that it can feel a bit fast, especially for those prone to motion sickness or with back sensitivities. Once at Allens Cay, the iguanas are a highlight. These only found on a handful of islands, and seeing them bask in the sun adds a wild touch to the trip.

Next, the boat glides to Compass Cay. Here, the nurse sharks are not only accustomed to humans but actively waiting under the docks, offering a chance to safely swim with sharks in shallow waters. Reviewers consistently praise this stop, describing it as “a super experience.” It’s a perfect mix of excitement and education — sharks are often misunderstood creatures, and the gentle nurse sharks are non-aggressive.

The trip then takes a scenic ride to Big Major’s Cay, home of the swimming pigs. These pigs are the star of the show, with photos and videos often flooding social media — and for good reason. Feeding and swimming alongside them creates lasting memories. Many travelers mention how much they enjoyed these interactions, with one reviewer saying, “Värerne var så gode til få en til føle sig for tilpas hele dagen,” highlighting the attentive care from guides.

Lunchtime is a welcome break, with a buffet at a local restaurant. While details about the menu aren’t specified, many travelers note the deliciousness and generous portions as part of the value. The opportunity to relax, refresh, and enjoy local flavors adds a genuine cultural touch.

The afternoon is dedicated to snorkeling at Pablo Escobar’s plane wreck. The aircraft’s crash in the late 70s, linked to drug trafficking, adds intrigue to the underwater scene. The wreck is a vibrant reef, home to colorful marine life, and provides a unique historical perspective. Many reviews mention the good visibility and variety of marine creatures.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to a quiet beach or sandbar. The calm waters here are perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun. It offers a peaceful finale after a day full of activity.

The group size can be up to 24 guests, which is a manageable number for a tour of this scope. The shared nature of the experience means that some travelers might find the pace a bit crowded or the boat rides a little bumpy — but it also fosters a lively, social atmosphere. Transportation to the check-in point isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying at a different location in Nassau.

What to bring? A towel and sunscreen are essentials. The tour isn’t suitable for young children under 2, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility or health issues, mainly due to the boat rides and swimming activities.

At a price point that includes all activities, lunch, and equipment, many find the tour quite good value, especially considering the diversity of experiences packed into a single day. The all-inclusive aspect means you won’t be surprised by extra costs, which is a relief for budget-conscious travelers.

Most reviews are glowing: “Superbe,” says Éric from Canada, emphasizing the overall quality. Angela from Spain calls it a “nice experience,” while Martina from Denmark raves about it being a “huge experience” and describes the guides as attentive. Günter from Austria highlights the swimming pigs and shark encounters as unforgettable, and Valerie from Italy appreciated the opportunity to interact with creatures in a respectful way.

One consistent theme is the stunning views across the islands, which many travelers say are worth the price alone. The bright blue waters, sandy beaches, and lush wildlife make every moment picture-worthy.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an action-packed day that combines wildlife encounters, historical sites, and beach relaxation. It suits those who appreciate authentic experiences and aren’t afraid of a boat ride or a busy schedule. Families with children over 2, couples, or solo travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of Exuma will find this tour rewarding.

It’s particularly suited for those who love photos and social media moments, given the iconic pigs and beautiful scenery. If you’re interested in a balanced mix of adventure and culture in a single day, this tour offers good value and memorable sights.

The Discover Exuma Island Hopping and Swimming Pigs Tour delivers a well-rounded adventure, blending iconic wildlife, historical intrigue, and stunning scenery. It’s a fantastic way to experience the highlights of Exuma without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or renting a boat yourself.

You’ll love the opportunities to swim with sharks and pigs, the remarkable underwater wreck, and the picture-perfect beaches. The tour is especially rewarding for travelers who enjoy interactive wildlife experiences and want to learn a bit about the area’s history and natural environment.

While the shared nature and speedboat rides may not suit everyone, most find the value, variety, and authenticity worthwhile. If you’re after a full day of memorable moments in the Bahamas with minimal fuss, this tour is hard to beat.

What is the starting point for the tour?
It begins at Carnivale Bahamas on Paradise Island at the Born Free Charters desk. Contact them for directions if needed.

How long is the boat ride?
The initial speedboat ride from Nassau takes just over an hour. Subsequent rides vary between 10 and 70 minutes depending on the stop.

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

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant is part of the tour.

Can I swim with the pigs?
Absolutely. The pigs are well-known and friendly, making for a fun and safe interaction.

Are snorkel gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for the wreck site.

How many people are in the group?
Up to 24 guests share the tour, making it lively but not overly crowded.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a towel and sunscreen. Comfortable clothing and water shoes can also be helpful.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation to Nassau’s check-in point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Carnivale Bahamas.

This full-day tour provides a balanced mix of wildlife, history, and relaxation in the beautiful setting of Exuma, making it a worthy addition to your Bahamas itinerary.