Bahamas: Private Rose Island Tour, Snorkeling & Swimming Pigs

Summary

Swim with turtles snorkel reefs unwind on Rose Island private boat

You’ll float beside sea turtles off Green Cay, snorkel through bright reefs, and walk barefoot along Rose Island’s soft beach. With private pickup and a local guide steering your small group, there’s time for cold drinks, laughs over rum punch, and maybe even swimming pigs if you want them. It’s relaxed — more like borrowing someone’s boat than joining a tour.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll see the turtles if you’re patient — they always come up for air,” Captain Dwayne said, grinning as he tossed a bit of lettuce overboard. I didn’t expect to be this close to them, honestly. We’d just left Nassau behind — the city noise swapped out for the slap of water against the hull and that salty breeze that makes your skin feel sticky but alive. The boat felt like ours for the day (it was just us and Dwayne), and I liked that nobody rushed us when we spotted our first turtle bobbing up by Green Cay. Its shell looked almost gold in the sun. I tried to take a picture but mostly just floated there, kicking gently, forgetting about my phone.

Dwayne handed out masks and fins — mine were a little too tight but whatever — and pointed toward a patch of reef where fish darted like confetti. The water was so clear it almost messed with my depth perception; you could see every ripple of sand below. At one point I heard someone from another boat laughing about the “Sweet Emily” rum punch (which really does sneak up on you). There was this moment when we all just drifted quietly, faces in the water, listening to our own breathing and the distant rattle of ice in a cooler somewhere above. It felt weirdly peaceful.

After snorkeling, we pulled up to Rose Island’s beach — powdery sand that squeaks under your feet. There’s a beach bar there if you want lunch (I got grilled fish; no regrets), or you can bring your own stuff if you’re picky. Some folks added swimming pigs to their tour — we watched from a distance as they splashed around with kids who couldn’t stop giggling. If you want that part, just ask ahead; it’s extra but looks fun. On the way back, Dwayne poured us another round of “Sweet Emily” and told stories about growing up here. He had this way of making everyone feel like an old friend.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and beach at Rose Island

• Travel roundtrip from Nassau
• Snorkel with turtles at Green Cay
• Snorkel with fishes at reefs
• Relax on white sandy beach at Rose Island
• Enjoy waters, sodas, snacks, and rum punch
• Optional stop at beach bar and grill

Top questions

How long is the private Rose Island tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is swimming with pigs included in the main price?

No, swimming pigs can be added at an additional cost.

Are drinks and snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water, sodas, snacks, ice, and signature rum punch are included.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, private roundtrip transportation is included in your booking.

Can I bring my own food or towels?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own towels, food, or drinks onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in the tour price.

Where do we have lunch during the tour?

You can purchase lunch at the Beach Bar & Grill on Rose Island or bring your own food.

How many people can join this private tour?

The pricing covers up to 8 persons maximum per booking.

What’s included

Your day includes private roundtrip transportation from Nassau hotels or port, use of snorkeling gear for both reef and turtle spots near Green Cay, plenty of bottled water and sodas on ice alongside snacks and their signature “Sweet Emily” rum punch. Lunch isn’t included but you can buy it at Rose Island’s beach bar or bring your own picnic if you prefer before heading back in comfort.