Bahamas: Private Rose Island Snorkeling & Turtles Tour

Summary

Swim with turtles snorkel reefs and relax on Rose Island

You’ll cruise turquoise Bahamian waters by private boat with a local captain, snorkel colorful reefs near Nassau, swim alongside wild turtles at Green Cay, and unwind on Rose Island’s soft beaches. Enjoy snacks and drinks onboard plus time for lunch at a beach bar—this is your chance to feel both relaxed and wide-eyed all day long.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to look that clear — almost like someone had turned up the color settings in real life. We met our captain at the dock in Nassau, and he grinned when he saw my face. “Wait till you see Green Cay,” he said. The boat ride out was fast but smooth, wind whipping past as we pointed out celebrity homes (I’m still not sure if that pink mansion really belonged to who he said it did). Soda cans clinked somewhere behind me. I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air.

First stop: snorkeling over a reef that looked like a patchwork quilt, all purples and oranges. I fumbled with my mask at first — always do — but then it was just me and a thousand darting fish. Our guide dove down to point at something hiding in the coral; I think it was a lobster? Hard to say, but he seemed pretty excited about it. When we got back on board, everyone was laughing about how awkward we looked trying to climb the ladder with fins on.

Then Green Cay for the turtles. I’d seen photos before but seeing them glide by under my feet felt different — calmer somehow. There was this one moment where everything went quiet except for the sound of water lapping against the hull and someone’s quiet “wow.” After that we pulled up to Rose Island itself, which honestly felt like our own private beach for a while. Sand so soft it squeaked underfoot, sun hot enough that I kept dipping into the shallows just to cool off.

We grabbed lunch at Footprints Beach Bar (the conch fritters are worth it), chatting with some locals who told us stories about storms and shipwrecks around here. You can add swimming pigs if you want — we skipped it this time, but maybe next round. The whole day felt easygoing, nothing rushed or forced. I still think about floating there looking up at clouds, not really wanting to head back yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private 4-hour Rose Island charter

• Cruise through harbor, view landmarks
• Snorkel vibrant coral reef
• Visit uninhabited Gilligan’s Island
• See wild green turtles at Green Cay
• Explore Rose Island’s white sandy beaches
• Relax or swim at chosen beach spot
• Optional visit to Footprints Beach Bar & Grill

Top questions

How long does the private Rose Island snorkeling tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from departure in Nassau.

Are drinks and snacks included on this Bahamas charter?

Yes, soda, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and snacks are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Can infants or small children join this private boat trip?

Yes, infants can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Do you visit swimming pigs during this Rose Island trip?

A visit to see swimming pigs can be added for an extra cost if you wish.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No, lunch is not included but you can buy food at Footprints Beach Bar & Grill on Rose Island.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point in Nassau.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private boat charter from Nassau with a local captain guiding you between stops; use of snorkeling gear; complimentary soda, bottled water, alcoholic drinks, and snacks onboard; plus plenty of time exploring reefs, meeting wild turtles at Green Cay, relaxing on Rose Island’s beaches—and a stop at Footprints Beach Bar where you can purchase lunch if hungry before heading back.