Rose Island Private Beach: Swimming with the Pigs

Planning a trip to the Bahamas and looking for something beyond the usual sunbathing and lounging? This swimming with pigs tour at Rose Island may just be what you need—an adventurous, fun-filled day that combines snorkeling, feeding friendly pigs, and relaxing at a private beach. Officially rated 4.5 out of 5 based on 78 reviews, this tour offers a balanced mix of activities that appeal to many types of travelers.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines nature, quirky animal encounters, and beautiful scenery all in one outing. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary get high praise, making it clear that this is a service that cares about quality and safety. That said, a few guests have raised concerns about overcrowding and communication issues, so it’s worth keeping those in mind if you’re considering booking. Overall, if you’re after a fun, relaxed day on the water with a touch of whimsy, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience suits travelers looking for an authentic Bahamas adventure that’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone wanting a mix of wildlife, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. It’s also a fantastic way to see some of the island’s marine life and enjoy exclusive access to a private slice of paradise. Just prepare for the possibility of crowds and ensure your expectations match the lively, social vibe of the tour.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines snorkeling, pig-feeding, and private beach relaxation.
• Excellent guides: Well-reviewed staff who make the day fun and informative.
• Value for money: Includes food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and pig encounters.
• Private location: Exclusive access to Rose Island’s 007 Beach Club offers a secluded feel.
• Varied activities: Suitable for families, first-time snorkelers, and animal lovers.
• Potential downsides: Can get crowded and communication issues have been reported.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Overview and Setting

This tour from Nassau to Rose Island delivers a multi-layered experience that covers marine life, animal interaction, and relaxing beach time—all packed into approximately 4 to 5 hours. Starting from Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Bahamas, the trip takes you on a lively powerboat ride to the private Rose Island, a lesser-visited haven away from the crowds. The main draw is the exclusive 007 Beach Club, a secluded spot on the island’s far east side, offering a peaceful environment with plenty of loungers, hammocks, and shaded areas.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

First Stop: Rose Island Reef Snorkeling (2 hours)

The journey begins with a snorkeling adventure at Rose Island Reef. The reef is described as beautiful and teeming with colorful fish and marine life. Guides provide snorkel equipment and instructions, making it accessible even for beginners. Several reviews highlight the quality of the reef and the friendly staff who help enhance the experience. Some travelers, like Evgenii, call it an “amazing tour for snorkeling,” while others mention that the reef is “pretty” but not overly crowded.

A notable highlight is the effort to find sea turtles at Green Cay, where you might encounter about 5 to 7 turtles—an experience that many reviews cite as thrilling. One reviewer enthusiastically shared how seeing the turtles made them “excited enough to forget taking pictures,” but appreciated the guides’ help in capturing moments for them.

Second Stop: Feeding and Swimming with Pigs

The next part of the trip is the most talked-about activity: feeding the pigs at the private beach. Guests are provided with hotdogs to feed the pigs while they stand in the water—an adorable and quirky encounter. Reviews consistently praise the gentle, friendly pigs, with Colette_L describing her 4-year-old’s ease and enjoyment around the animals. The pigs are well-cared-for, with guides explaining how they are kept in a clean, safe environment; some negative comments about the pigs being “locked away” are addressed by the tour operators, emphasizing their care and regular attention.

While some guests hope for an opportunity to swim with the pigs in the ocean, the rough water conditions sometimes limit this, and pigs are typically fed in shallow water or near the wall. Still, feeding them and watching their playful antics is a highlight for many.

The Private Rose Island Beach Club

After the pig encounter, guests enjoy lounging on the private beach—a peaceful, well-maintained stretch with hammocks, floats, and shaded cabanas. The lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers is grilled fresh and served amid a lively, friendly atmosphere. Many reviewers note how ample seating and shade mean no worries about overcrowding, a stark contrast to nearby public beaches. Guests can also float in the water, kayak, or just soak up the sunshine.

The unlimited soft drinks and bottled water keep everyone refreshed, with some reviews mentioning optional exotic cocktails available for purchase, adding a splash of Bahamian flavor.

Additional Details: Accessibility & Practical Info

The tour departs from Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and is designed for small groups—generally no more than 15 travelers—ensuring a personalized experience. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the commitment to free cancellation up to 24 hours provides flexibility.

Participants should bring sunscreen and towels—though towels are not included—and water shoes are recommended, especially for the pig-feeding area or rocky parts of the island. Service animals are permitted, and most travelers will find this tour suitable; however, some reviews mention that it’s not ideal for very young children, especially if they are sensitive to sand fleas or rough waters.

The Return and Overall Experience

The return trip features music, lively chatter, and the same sense of adventure that began the day. Many travelers echo reviews praising the well-run operation, friendly crew, and fun atmosphere. Some have shared concerns about overcrowding and poor communication, especially when delays occur, but these are often outweighed by the overall enjoyment.

One standout review even offered a special offer of free tickets to compensate for a booking mishap, showing how committed the operators are to customer satisfaction.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The combination of activities—snorkeling in clear waters, feeding and interacting with pigs, and relaxing on a secluded beach—creates a balanced day of adventure and relaxation. The exclusive location means you won’t be crowded out by other travelers, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff add a layer of comfort and fun.

The value is noteworthy: at $139 per person, it includes snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and animal encounters—a package that many reviews consider worth the price, especially given the quality of the guides and the picturesque setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, animal lovers, and those new to snorkeling who want a friendly, low-pressure environment. It’s also suitable for groups of friends looking for a lively day on the water. If you’re after serene, quiet beaches, this may be more energetic than you want, but if you enjoy social, fun-filled outings, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a diverse, engaging day that mixes marine life, playful animals, and private beach relaxation, this tour offers real value. The friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized activities make it a standout choice for many visiting Nassau.

While the potential for crowding and some communication hiccups are worth noting, the overall experience tends to shine through, especially given the fun animal interactions and stunning snorkeling spots. It’s a great way to get a taste of the Bahamas’ natural beauty and quirky charm in a single, well-priced package.

If you’re after a lively, memorable, and all-inclusive adventure that suits most travelers—and are okay with a bit of social buzz—this swimming with pigs and snorkeling tour at Rose Island is highly recommended.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling at Rose Island Reef, feeding pigs at the private beach, bottled water, light snacks like hamburgers and hotdogs, and use of snorkeling equipment.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting from Nassau and returning to the same meeting point.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Bahamas at 2 Marina Drive, Paradise Island.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide snorkel gear and instructions. Many reviews mention that even first-timers enjoyed the reef.

Are towels provided?
No, towels are not included, so bring your own if you want to dry off or sit on the sand comfortably.

Can I swim with the pigs?
You’ll feed the pigs in shallow water, but swimming with them in the ocean depends on water conditions, which can be rough.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, but young children should be comfortable around animals and water. Some reviews note that kids enjoyed feeding the pigs and lounging on the beach.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water shoes, a towel, and a waterproof bag for your valuables.

Is the tour crowded?
It’s generally a small-group experience, but some reviews mention overcrowding or delays, especially during busy times.

How do I book?
You can book via Viator or directly through the tour provider. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This tour is a fantastic mix of fun and relaxation, offering a slice of Bahamian charm that plenty of travelers find well worth the price. Whether you’re chasing snorkeling adventures, animal encounters, or just a beautiful day at the beach, it’s a trip that promises lasting memories.