Bahamas Rose Island: Swimming Pigs, Snorkeling & Beach Lunch

Summary

Swim with pigs in the bahamas snorkel coral reefs lunch at rose island

You’ll jump right into Bahamian life—snorkeling colorful reefs near Nassau, swimming alongside the famous Rose Island pigs (yes, really), grabbing a laid-back lunch at a local beach bar, and spotting wild sea turtles from the boat. Expect laughter, sandy toes, and moments you’ll remember long after your skin stops smelling like saltwater.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you first step onto a boat and the salt air just hits different? That’s how it started for us at Paradise Island—kind of sleepy-eyed but already grinning. Our guide, Marcus, gave this quick rundown (he’s got that Bahamian warmth, you’ll see), and suddenly we were skimming over turquoise water so clear it almost didn’t look real. The boat ride out to Sandy Cay was breezy—my hair was a mess in two minutes flat—and Marcus pointed out where they filmed Gilligan’s Island. I tried humming the theme song but nobody joined in. Fair enough.

The snorkeling stop came next. I hesitated at first—the water looked cold but wasn’t—and then I was floating above these wild patches of coral, fish darting around like confetti. My mask kept fogging up and I probably swallowed half the sea before getting the hang of it. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for my own breathing and the distant sound of someone laughing on the boat. I still think about that view under the surface sometimes.

Then Rose Island: honestly, swimming with pigs is weirder than you’d expect. They’re just there—snuffling around your legs like oversized dogs looking for snacks (which Marcus handed out). One piglet tried to eat my wristband; Li laughed so hard she nearly dropped her phone in the water. The guides were patient with everyone’s questions (“Do they bite?” “What do they eat?”) and made sure nobody got trampled by an eager snout. Afterward we wandered up to this little beach bar for lunch—grilled fish for me, burger for Li—and a cold beer that tasted perfect after all that sun. There were kids building lopsided sandcastles while their parents just melted into beach chairs with mojitos.

On the way back we cruised past Green Cay to spot sea turtles (they popped their heads up like they were checking us out), then drifted through Nassau Harbour past those massive cruise ships—felt tiny in comparison. Back at Paradise Island I realized my skin was salty and my hair hopelessly tangled but honestly? Wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Swimming pigs, snorkeling, and lunch

• Check in at Carnivale Bahamas
• Visit Sandy Cay for photos
• Snorkel at coral reef
• Swim with and feed pigs
• Lunch and relax at beach bar
• Spot wild sea turtles at Green Cay
• Cruise through Nassau Harbour

Top questions

Where does the swimming pigs tour start?

The tour departs from Carnivale Bahamas restaurant on Paradise Island.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, masks and snorkels are provided onboard for all guests.

Can I feed or swim with the pigs on Rose Island?

Yes, you can swim with and feed the pigs under guide supervision.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

Yes, lunch at a local beach bar is included along with one beverage.

Will we see sea turtles on this Bahamas tour?

You’ll visit Green Cay where wild sea turtles are often spotted from the boat.

Are drinks included in this half day swimming pigs tour?

Your day includes bottled water, soda/pop, local beer or canned mojitos (for adults).

How long does this Rose Island swimming pigs trip last?

This is a half-day excursion; exact timing depends on your departure slot.

Is pickup included from my hotel?

No hotel pickup; you meet at Carnivale Bahamas restaurant on Paradise Island.

What’s included

Your day includes snacks onboard plus bottled water, soda or pop as well as local beer or canned mojitos if you’re over 18; all landing fees are covered; use of snorkeling equipment is provided; lunch at a relaxed beach bar comes with your choice from their menu and one drink before heading back through Nassau Harbour to Paradise Island.