Rose Island Swimming Pigs & Beach Snorkeling Experience Nassau.

If you’re heading to Nassau and want to add something truly memorable to your trip, a tour involving the iconic swimming pigs and vibrant coral reef snorkeling might just be your best bet. While there are many options available, this 3-hour adventure offers a unique blend of adorable animal encounters, scenic boat rides, and underwater exploration.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the up-close interaction with friendly pigs eager for cuddles, the chance to snorkel among colorful marine life, and the breathtaking views of Nassau’s waterfront on the boat trip. Plus, the affordability at just $79 per person makes it accessible for most travelers.

One aspect to consider is the pace of the tour—some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed, especially if you want ample time to enjoy the pigs or explore the reef at leisure. That said, this tour suits those looking for a fun, quick getaway that combines wildlife, water, and sightseeing in one package.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic, family-friendly experiences and isn’t too fussed about spending extra time at each stop, this tour will likely tick your boxes.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point offers great value considering the animals, snorkeling, and scenic boat ride included.
• Authentic animal interaction with friendly swimming pigs that are eager for cuddles.
• Beautiful coral reef for snorkeling, teeming with colorful marine life.
• Expert guides and crew who are praised for their helpfulness and friendliness.
• Short but sweet experience, perfect for those on a tight schedule or seeking a quick adventure.
• Potential for feeling rushed, so plan your expectations accordingly.

What to Expect from the Tour

This 3-hour experience from Nassau packs in quite a bit, starting with a scenic boat ride that offers views of Atlantis and Ocean Club Estates, plus a quick pass by Pearl Island. These parts of the journey alone set a luxurious tone, giving you a glimpse of Nassau’s waterfront splendor.

Upon reaching Rose Island, you’ll be greeted by friendly swimming pigs. These animals are the highlight for many—adorable, social, and eager for interaction. One reviewer noted, “The pigs were the cutest! So friendly. Amazing staff as well. Love the whole experience.” Expect a lively, relaxed atmosphere where you can snuggle with the pigs, take photos, and enjoy their playful antics.

After the pig encounter, the tour shifts gears to underwater exploration. You’ll grab your snorkel gear included in the price and head into the crystal-clear waters, where a vibrant coral reef awaits. Expect to see colorful fish, maybe a stingray or turtle, as some reviewers pointed out. One guest shared, “Spent almost an hour snorkeling the reef, and it was very nice.” The reef experience is usually leisurely, giving you time to appreciate the marine biodiversity.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Scenic Boat Ride & Passing Landmarks

The tour kicks off with a harbor cruise that offers excellent views of Nassau’s waterfront, including Atlantis, Ocean Club Estates, and a quick look at Pearl Island. These vantage points evoke that classic Bahamas postcard scenery, setting a relaxed, tropical mood.

Rose Island & The Swimming Pigs

Arriving on Rose Island, the main event is the swimming pigs. They’re not just for Instagram—they’re loved for their friendly, playful nature. According to reviews, guides like Tina and Marcus are praised for their helpfulness and enthusiasm, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Some guests mentioned that time feels limited, with only about 25 minutes to interact with the pigs and get ready for snorkeling. Reviewers say, “We loved the island, the guides, and the boat captains,” but also noted the rush to fit everything in. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit hurried, but it’s perfect if you’re after a quick, fun highlight.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

After pig cuddles, it’s time to hit the water. The coral reef at Rose Island is described as vibrant, with clear visibility and a variety of marine life. Spending about an hour snorkeling seems common, giving you enough time to float among fish, see turtles, or perhaps even spot a stingray. The reef’s proximity to the beach makes it easy to access, and the snorkel gear is included for convenience.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Group Size

This tour lasts around three hours, making it ideal for those with limited time or who prefer shorter excursions. Group size is capped at 99 travelers, which means it’s generally well-organized, but it can get busy during peak times. Most reviews mention friendly guides who keep things moving smoothly, but some mention feeling a bit rushed.

Price & Value

At $79 per person, this tour offers a good value for the experience—covering transportation, animal encounters, snorkeling gear, and land/river fees. Compare that to private or longer tours, and you’ll see it’s a budget-friendly option for a snapshot of all the Bahamas has to offer.

Additional Costs & Tips

While the tour includes admission, landing, and snorkeling gear, items like alcoholic drinks and lunch are available for purchase, so bring cash if you plan to indulge. It’s also wise to arrive early to ensure you have enough time to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

Since the experience relies heavily on good weather, it can be canceled if conditions are poor, with a full refund or rescheduling available. Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, so keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Multiple guests praised the knowledgeable guides and the friendly crew, which significantly enhanced their satisfaction. One reviewer mentioned how the guides made the pig interaction particularly fun and memorable, noting, “The staff was very helpful and friendly, making the experience even better.”

Others appreciated the value for money, especially considering the included snorkel gear and the scenic boat ride. A guest emphasized, “The price was right, and the experience was worth every penny.”

However, some felt the time constraints limited their overall enjoyment, with one stating they only had 25 minutes for the pig encounter, which felt a little rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with kids, couples, or group travelers eager for a quick, fun-filled day exploring Nassau’s best-known attractions. It offers photo opportunities, wildlife interaction, and underwater adventure—all in a manageable timeframe.

If you’re someone who values authentic animal encounters and snorkeling in clear waters, this tour delivers. However, if you prefer more relaxed visits or longer durations at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a scenic boat ride from Nassau’s Downtown Harbor to Rose Island.

What’s the total tour duration?
It lasts approximately three hours, including boat rides, pig interaction, and snorkeling.

Are snorkel masks and gear provided?
Yes, snorkel equipment is included in the price, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What do I need to bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a towel, and cash if you want to buy drinks or snacks. The tour provides all necessary gear.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially since the pigs are friendly and the snorkeling is suitable for all skill levels.

How many people typically join?
Group sizes can be up to 99 travelers, but reviews indicate the crew does a good job managing the groups to keep things smooth.

Final Thoughts

This Nassau tour offers a fun, compact package combining wildlife, water, and scenic views. The friendly guides, beautiful reef, and adorable pigs make it a standout for anyone wanting a memorable Bahamian experience without spending all day doing it.

While some may find the limited time at each stop a bit rushed, most guests leave feeling pleased with the value and authenticity of the experience. It’s especially well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or those with tight schedules who want a taste of everything Nassau has to offer in just a few hours.

If you’re seeking a lighthearted, scenic adventure that’s easy to book and enjoy, this tour is a solid choice that delivers both fun and picture-perfect moments.

Happy adventuring in Nassau, and don’t forget your camera!