Nassau: Sun Cay and Swimming Pigs Boat Trip with Lunch

Travelers looking for a fun, memorable day in the Bahamas often gravitate toward the storybook image of swimming pigs and pristine beaches. This 5-hour boat trip from Nassau promises just that — a chance to get up close with the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach, relax on a beautiful private island, and enjoy a home-cooked Bahamian lunch.

We’ve not experienced this tour ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it seems like a smooth, friendly, and well-organized outing suitable for those craving a mix of iconic photo ops and beach relaxation.

Two things we love are the knowledgeable guides, who make the trip engaging and informative, and the opportunity to interact with the pigs, which sounds both adorable and hilarious. On the flip side, some travelers have noted potential issues with lunch logistics and stairs to board the boat, so a bit of planning is helpful.

This tour is perfect for families, animal lovers, and beach enthusiasts who want a lively yet relaxed experience that combines nature, fun, and culture in one outing.

Key Points

• Iconic Experience: Interact with the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach, a highlight for many travelers.
• Beautiful Setting: Enjoy relaxing on white-sand beaches of Sun Cay, with plenty of space and amenities.
• Authentic Meal: Savor a traditional Bahamian lunch, including BBQ chicken, fish, rice and peas, and coleslaw.
• Engaging Guides: Tour guides are frequently praised for their friendly, informative, and lively approach.
• Flexible Activities: Optional upgrades like snorkeling, kayaking, and iguana feeding offer added fun.
• Good Value: The combination of transportation, guides, lunch, and access to multiple attractions provides a solid experience for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Setting Out from Nassau

The adventure begins with a short walk to the designated dock on the ocean side of Nassau’s plaza, where the tour guides check you in. The meeting point at coordinates 25.078100204467773, -77.33800506591797 is central and easy to find, especially if you’re already exploring Nassau.

The boat ride itself lasts about 25 minutes, offering scenic views of the harbor, luxury homes on Paradise Island, and the open sea. Passengers frequently remark on the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, making the start of the day smooth and enjoyable. As one reviewer notes, “The boat ride to Pearl Island and Pig Beach was a great experience. The captain and tour guide were very informative and interactive,” setting a positive tone for the trip.

Visiting Sun Cay (Pearl Island)

Sun Cay, also called Pearl Island, is where you’ll spend most of your relaxing time. The island boasts stunning white-sand beaches with lounge chairs and umbrellas, making it easy to settle in and soak up the sun.

This part of the tour is about chilling out, but it also has a few surprises. You can jump into the ocean, swim, or explore the island’s facilities. Travelers frequently mention how everything feels well-organized, with plenty of chairs and space for everyone. It’s a great spot for pictures, unwinding, and sampling Bahamian hospitality.

The Pig Beach Experience

The moment many travelers await is the visit to Pig Beach — the place where swimming pigs wade into the surf, eager for snacks and attention. For around 40 minutes, you’ll get to feed and play with the pigs, which are described as delightful and well-trained by tour staff.

Several reviews highlight that the pigs are friendly and clean, and the staff often share fun facts about these unique animals. One guest said, “Sharing snacks and riding the waves with the pigs was so fun, I wanted to stay longer.” The experience is as quirky as it is adorable, and it’s clear that guides keep the encounter safe and respectful.

More Great Tours Nearby

Beach Relaxation and Optional Activities

After the pig adventure, the focus shifts to relaxation. You can lounge on the beach, take photos, or join optional activities for an extra charge, such as snorkeling, kayaking, water trampolining, or iguana feeding. These upgrades allow you to tailor your day, whether you want to explore the reef, paddle around, or just bask in the sun.

Many travelers find that the included lounge chairs and umbrellas provide plenty of comfort, especially since the island has a well-stocked beach restaurant serving authentic Bahamian cuisine.

The Bahamian Lunch

No Bahamian experience is complete without local flavors, and this tour delivers with a home-style lunch. The meal features BBQ chicken, fish fingers, rice and peas, and coleslaw, served at the island’s beach restaurant. Guests can purchase beverages from three bars, making it easy to cool down and enjoy the laid-back vibe.

One review notes, “Great food and drinks, with friendly staff. The lunch was a highlight,” emphasizing how the meal complements the day’s fun.

Shopping and Extras

Beyond the main activities, there’s the opportunity to visit a straw market for souvenirs, get a massage, or sample conch at the nearby station. These are optional, but they add a local, authentic touch to the experience for those wanting a bit extra.

Returning to Nassau

As the day winds down, the boat returns to the original meeting point. The trip overall lasts about 5 hours, giving plenty of time for each activity without feeling rushed. The reviews consistently praise the punctuality and professionalism of the crew, making the experience enjoyable and reliable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The highlight of this experience is undoubtedly the swimming pigs — something you won’t find on every Caribbean tour. The friendly guides ensure safety and fun, making the encounter memorable for all ages.

The scenic boat ride offers impressive views of Nassau’s coastline and the water’s vibrant hues, giving travelers a chance to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the Bahamas.

The beach at Sun Cay is a true gem — soft sands, calm waters, and plenty of space for everyone to unwind. The lunch provides a taste of local cuisine and adds value to the overall experience, especially given the combination of transportation, activities, and food.

Considerations for Travelers

Some reviews mentioned difficulty finding the dock if you’re not a cruise passenger, so plan to arrive early or confirm directions. A few guests noted stairs needed to board the boat, which might be important for travelers with mobility issues, though most found it manageable.

The lunch logistics can occasionally cause delays if not well-managed, as one guest experienced, but overall, the staff seems responsive and attentive.

Who Would Enjoy This Trip?

This tour is ideal for families with children over 6, animal lovers interested in the pigs, and anyone seeking a combination of fun, relaxation, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of optional activities makes it suitable for those who want a little adventure or a mostly chill day.

It’s a great fit for travelers who value authentic experiences and well-organized tours with friendly guides that prioritize safety and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, the tour offers a balanced mix of unique encounters, scenic views, and good food, making it a solid value in Nassau. The well-reviewed guides, combined with the chance to snack with pigs and lounge on pristine beaches, make this a memorable day for many guests.

However, if you’re sensitive to logistics or stairs, or if you’re seeking a purely cultural or historical experience, this might not be your best fit. But if you want a lively, picture-perfect adventure with plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation, it’s hard to beat.

This tour will suit adventurous families, animal enthusiasts, and beach lovers looking for a lighthearted, authentic escape from Nassau’s busy streets.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the boat ride from Nassau to Sun Cay is part of the tour, starting from the designated dock.

How long does the boat ride take?
The boat ride to Pearl Island lasts approximately 25 minutes, giving you a scenic view of the Nassau coastline.

Can I participate in the optional activities?
Yes, activities like snorkeling, kayaking, water trampolining, and iguana feeding are available as upgrades on the day.

Is the lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, a traditional Bahamian lunch—including BBQ chicken, fish fingers, rice and peas, and coleslaw—is included.

Are children under 6 allowed?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under six years old, mainly because of safety and activity considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and cash for drinks and souvenirs. Food and drinks are not permitted to be brought onto the island.

This boat trip from Nassau offers an engaging blend of iconic animal encounters, scenic beaches, and local cuisine. With friendly guides and plenty of opportunities to unwind or explore, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a lively yet relaxing slice of the Bahamas.

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