Self Drive Speedboat and Swim with the Pigs

Introduction

If you’re craving a mix of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a touch of the unusual, the Self Drive Speedboat and Swim with the Pigs tour on New Providence Island might just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a memorable blend of fun, adventure, and adorable animal encounters.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to drive your own speedboat—no license needed—adds a level of independence and excitement many travelers crave. Second, the opportunity to interact with friendly pigs on a private island offers a quirky, authentic moment that’s hard to find elsewhere. Third, the scenic routes along the island are praised for their great views and friendly guides.

One consideration? The tour lasts about 2 hours, so it’s a relatively quick adventure, but with plenty packed in. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, discovering new scenery, and making fun animal memories—all at a reasonable price point of $130 per person.

Good To Know

• Self-Driving Freedom: No boating license required, making it accessible for most ages over 5.
• Authentic Animal Encounter: Swim, feed, and take photos with friendly pigs on a private island.
• Scenic Route: Guides show the best views around New Providence, providing great photo opportunities.
• Adrenaline Rush: Driving your own speedboat adds an exciting, hands-on element.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, maintaining a personal and manageable experience.
• Value for Money: At $130, it offers a good mix of adventure, scenery, and unique animal interactions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point and Check-In

The adventure begins at Malcom’s Park at Atlantis Bridge in Nassau, a handy location close to public transportation. Check-in is described as straightforward, and the crew has a reputation for being hospitable and professional. One particularly helpful insight from reviews is that the crew is patient, even when some participants find the speedboat challenging at first—an important detail for nervous first-timers.

Getting Briefed and Learning to Drive

Once onboard, you’ll receive quick, clear instructions on how to operate your speedboat. The process is designed to be simple and accessible, with no previous boating experience needed. Reviewers mention that the guides are helpful, supportive, and willing to answer questions, making this part of the tour less intimidating than it might seem.

The Speedboat Ride

The core thrill is the self-driving element, where you take the wheel and control your own boat. Expect an exhilarating ride as you follow your guide around the island’s beautiful coastlines. The route offers fantastic vantage points of Nassau’s skyline, nearby hotels, and the iconic bridges—perfect for snapping some photos or just soaking in the scenery.

One reviewer recounted that high winds made driving challenging at times, but with patience and the guidance of the crew, they managed to reach the private island. The guides’ professionalism and support are frequently praised, which helps turn any initial nerves into genuine fun.

Private Island and Pig Encounter

The highlight for many is arriving at the private island, home to the famously friendly pigs. Here, guests can feed the pigs, take pictures, and even swim with them if they wish. The pigs are described as friendly and well-behaved, and the water is noted to be clear and clean.

Reviewers who have visited mention that the pigs are quite used to humans, and some even prefer to hang around near the feeding spots, making for great photo opportunities. One reviewer shared that the pigs didn’t want to go into the water because they had no more food, highlighting how their behaviors can vary, but overall, the animal interaction is a genuine, memorable part of the experience.

Return Journey

After spending some time with the pigs, the boat returns to Nassau, completing the roughly 2-hour tour. The journey back provides one last chance to enjoy the views and chat with guides about the history and highlights of the islands.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

• Duration and Group Size: Just about 2 hours, with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Price and Value: At $130 per person, this tour balances affordability with a mix of adventure and animal encounters.
• Age Restrictions: Suitable for travelers 5 years and older; drivers must be 18+ without needing a license.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible in poor conditions. If canceled, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.
• What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, waterproof clothing, and a camera—perfect for capturing the highlights of this fun trip.

The reviews highlight the friendly guides and smooth organization, making it suitable for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a lively Bahamas activity. The ability to drive your own boat adds a sense of independence, while the pig encounter guarantees a unique story.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Considering the cost, you’ll receive a balanced experience packed with adventure, scenic views, and the chance to engage directly with some of the Bahamas’ most charming animals. The tour’s reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, largely because of the approachable guides and well-maintained facilities. The private island visit provides a sense of exclusivity, making it feel more special than just a standard boat ride.

On top of that, the tour’s inclusion of self-driving makes it stand out from more passive activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a hands-on experience without the need for prior skills or licenses. The short duration still leaves you with plenty of memorable moments—no long days required.

Who This Experience Is Best For

This tour appeals most to adventure lovers who want to take control and feel the thrill of driving a speedboat. It’s also ideal for animal enthusiasts eager to interact with pigs in a natural setting. Families with children over 5 will appreciate the safe, guided environment that caters to all ages, while solo travelers and small groups will find it a fun, engaging way to explore Nassau’s waters.

If you’re after a unique photo opportunity or a quirky story to tell, this activity delivers. However, if you’re looking for a long, leisurely cruise or a more relaxed experience, you might prefer other options. Still, for a quick, fun-filled adventure, this tour ticks many boxes.

The Sum Up

The Self Drive Speedboat and Swim with the Pigs tour combines adventure, stunning scenery, and adorable animal encounters into a compact package. The opportunity to drive your own boat adds a personal thrill, while the chance to interact with pigs on a private island creates memorable moments that stand out from standard Bahamas excursions.

Great guides, flexible scheduling, and a reasonable price make this experience accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or simply after a fun photo story, this activity offers genuine value—delivering excitement and authentic animal interactions in just a couple of hours.

For those seeking a lively, hands-on adventure with a touch of the quirky Bahamas, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to add some splashy fun to their island getaway.

FAQ

Do I need a boating license to drive the speedboat?
No, you do not need a boating license or prior experience. The crew provides quick, easy instructions to get you comfortable behind the wheel.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Malcom’s Park at Atlantis Bridge, Nassau, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby or using public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including the boat ride, pig interaction, and return journey.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can join, but they cannot drive the boat—they must be passengers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of poor conditions, it may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Is there any food or drinks included?
The tour primarily focuses on the boat ride and pig encounter; food or drinks are not included in the price.

How should I prepare?
Bring sunscreen, waterproof clothing if desired, and a camera to capture the fun moments. Wear appropriate attire for water and outdoor activities.

In summary, this Bahamas adventure is a spirited blend of driving, scenic sightseeing, and animal interaction, making it a standout experience for those wanting a lively, memorable outing.