HALF DAY Swiming Pigs and Sharks Tour (Nassau to Exuma by Plane)

Travelers looking for a compact yet comprehensive Bahamian adventure might find this Half Day Swimming Pigs and Sharks Tour to be a compelling option. Although it’s called a half-day, the reality is a full experience packed into roughly 7 to 9 hours, offering a taste of the islands’ most iconic sights and animal encounters—from the famous pigs to the resident sharks.

What we particularly love about this tour is its ability to blend adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re thrilled by the idea of swimming with pigs or prefer lounging on a private beach, this trip caters to a broad range of interests. The knowledgeable guides, the smooth flights, and the authentic local food elevate the experience far beyond mere sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the price point of $4,000 per group, which might seem steep at first glance, but it includes nearly all transport, food, and guided activities—making it a value-packed experience for small groups or families. It’s best suited for adventurous groups of up to four, who aren’t afraid of an early start and enjoy exploring multiple islands in a single day.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Island Experience: Visit 7 different Bahamian islands with a mix of animal encounters, snorkeling, and relaxing on secluded beaches.
• Exclusive Private Tour: Designed for small groups or families, ensuring personalized attention.
• Comprehensive Inclusions: Includes transport, lunch, drinks, and WiFi on board, providing convenience and comfort.
• Adventure with Comfort: Combines adrenaline-pumping activities like swimming with sharks and pigs with relaxing moments on pristine beaches.
• Authentic Local Food: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, choosing between classic American fare or Bahamian specialties such as conch and lobster.
• Professional Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides make each activity safe and engaging, as confirmed by past participants.

How the Tour Works: An In-Depth Look

This tour offers a well-structured day with seven stops that showcase the best of Exuma while maintaining a relaxed pace. From booking to return, it’s designed to maximize your Bahamas experience without feeling rushed.

Pick-Up and Flight from Nassau

Most travelers will start their day with a pickup from their Nassau hotel around 6:45 am, heading to the airport for a quick yet scenic flight. The small charter plane provides a cozy, intimate setting, with WiFi onboard, which can be a nice perk for catching up on emails or simply enjoying the views. Past reviews highlight the flight as smooth and enjoyable, giving a great vantage point of the islands’ coastline and turquoise waters.

Stop 1: Staniel Cay

Our journey begins with a short landing at Staniel Cay, home to the famed Staniel Cay Yacht Club. While the stop here is primarily for landing, it’s a neat first glimpse of the exclusive island vibe and sets the tone for the day’s luxury feel. It’s a quick 30-minute stop with free admission and offers fantastic photo opportunities of the local marina.

Stop 2: Pig Beach

Next, you’re headed to the world-famous Pig Beach—the highlight for many. Here, you’ll get about an hour to interact with the friendly swimming pigs, which have become iconic ambassadors of Exuma. Past visitors rave about how well-organized and friendly the encounter is, with some mentioning that the guides are great at managing the animals and ensuring safety. The experience is more than just a selfie; it’s about observing these intelligent animals in their natural environment, fed and cared for in a safe manner.

Stop 3: Compass Cay

From piggy fun, the next stop is Compass Cay, where you can see and swim with sharks. The resident sharks are known to approach boats and swimmers in shallow waters, offering an exciting yet safe experience—especially with guides present. Past reviews mention the sharks as calm and curious, providing an authentic chance to see marine life up close. It’s a favorite for those craving a bit of thrill mixed with education.

Stop 4: Thunderball Grotto

Made famous by a James Bond film, the Thunderball Grotto is an underwater cave filled with colorful fish and stunning rock formations. Snorkelers get around an hour here to explore the vibrant underwater scene. Reviewers loved the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful views beneath the surface. It’s a reminder of how much marine life the Bahamas delivers in a compact, accessible setting.

Stop 5: Gaulin Cay

A short visit to Gaulin Cay allows encounters with endangered Bahamian Iguanas. Past visitors appreciated the close-up view of these ancient reptiles and noted the free admission makes this a hassle-free stop. It’s a quiet moment to appreciate the fragile wildlife that calls the Bahamas home.

Stop 6: Great Exuma and Lunch

The tour’s lunch stop at BlackPoint on Great Exuma is a real highlight. Here, you can choose between a traditional burger and fries or sample local dishes like fish, conch, or lobster. Past guests have raved about the delicious food and the friendly local atmosphere. This sit-down meal provides a nice break from the activity, allowing time to relax and soak up local culture.

Return to Nassau

After lunch, the flight back to Nassau takes about 2 hours, with hotel pickups and drop-offs arranged for convenience. Past reviews note that the return flight offers more stunning views, and the smooth transportation helps round off the day.

What Value Does This Tour Offer?

While $4,000 might seem hefty, consider what’s included: all transport, guided activities, lunch, drinks, WiFi, and a private experience. The value lies in the convenience of visiting so many islands in a single day without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, more time at each stop, and a more intimate experience with the wildlife and scenery.

Many reviewers emphasized the professionalism of the guides, with some mentioning the knowledgeable staff who made the animals’ interactions safe and enjoyable. The local restaurant lunch was also a highlight, offering a taste of authentic Bahamian cuisine, which elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing.

The adventure and relaxation blend well—for thrill-seekers, swimming with sharks or pigs is a thrill, while those wanting downtime can lounge on private beaches or enjoy the stunning scenery from the plane. The WiFi on board also adds an extra layer of comfort, allowing some to share the experience in real time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families or small groups looking for a full, varied day of discovery. It’s perfect if you want to see multiple islands without the hassle of separate bookings, or if the idea of swimming with pigs and sharks appeals to your sense of adventure. Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find it manageable, as activities mainly involve some walking, snorkeling, and animal encounters.

However, if your group prefers a more leisurely, less activity-packed day, or if you’re seeking a luxury-only experience at a lower cost, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, since the trip is weather-dependent, it’s wise to have flexible plans around potential cancellations or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

This private, all-inclusive Bahamian tour offers a unique combination of adventure, wildlife encounters, and culture. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize their time and experience the essence of Exuma’s most famous attractions in one day.

You’ll love the guided insights, the chance to swim with iconic animals, and the delicious local cuisine. The seamless logistics and WiFi make it a comfortable choice for those unfamiliar with island hopping or looking to avoid the stress of planning individual activities.

For travelers craving a balanced mix of thrill and chill, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of the Bahamas’ natural beauty and playful spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activities are generally suitable for families, especially with guides who are experienced with children. However, travelers should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable with animal encounters.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers pick-up, flights, boat rides, guide services, lunch, bottled water, soda, and WiFi onboard. It’s a nearly all-inclusive experience, making it easier to budget.

How long is the total tour?
Expect around 7 to 9 hours, including transportation, island stops, and meals. The flight itself is part of the experience, providing scenic views throughout.

Are there any hidden fees or additional costs?
All major activities and meals are included. The only potential extra expenses would be souvenirs or optional activities not listed in the package.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and a hat. Remember that restrooms aren’t available on the boat, so plan accordingly.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund. Always check the forecast and communicate with the tour provider ahead of time.

This tour is a fantastic way to combine adventure, wildlife, and island culture into one memorable day in the Bahamas, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family eager to see as much as possible in a limited time.