Exuma Cays: Swimming Pigs, Nurse Sharks & Plane Wreck Tour

Summary

Swim with pigs in the Exumas, meet nurse sharks and lunch at Black Point

You’ll swim with Exuma’s famous pigs, feed nurse sharks (if you dare), snorkel above a sunken WWII plane wreck, and share Bahamian lunch at Lorraine’s Cafe—all with local guides who know every cay by heart. Expect laughter, saltwater hair, and stories you’ll want to retell long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“You gotta watch out for Big Mama—she’s the boss pig,” our captain grinned as we pulled up to that bright strip of sand in the Exuma Cays. The water was so clear I could see my toes before I even jumped in. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this swimming pigs thing (felt a bit silly at first), but then one of them—muddy nose and all—just sort of paddled over like we were old friends. There was this weird mix of sunscreen, salt air, and…well, pig. Kids squealed louder than the animals. Someone tried to feed a carrot and missed by a mile. I still laugh thinking about it.

After that chaos, our guide—her name was Lianna—rounded us back onto the boat with a “Come on now, sharks next!” She’d grown up on Staniel Cay and told us little stories about each island we zipped past. The nurse sharks at Compass Cay looked way scarier than they felt; their skin is rougher than sandpaper but they just glide around you like sleepy dogs. It’s kind of peaceful if you let yourself trust it for a second. I got splashed by some kid jumping in behind me and lost my nerve for a minute—then Lianna just winked and said “They’re vegetarians.” That helped.

The last stop before lunch was this old WWII-era plane wreck near Norman’s Cay. You snorkel right above it—the metal is all soft edges now from years underwater—and tiny fish dart through the windows. It’s wild how something once dangerous can turn into part of the scenery here. Lunch at Lorraine’s Cafe in Black Point was loud and messy (in a good way). Bahamian rice, fried fish, cold beer—everyone talking over each other about which pig was their favorite or who chickened out on the sharks. The mojitos might’ve helped loosen tongues too.

I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed by the end—or so sunburned honestly—but there’s something about sharing food with strangers after swimming with pigs that makes you feel like you’ve been let in on an inside joke only The Bahamas could pull off.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Exumas and swim with wildlife

• Travel by speed boat to Exumas
• Interact with swimming pigs
• Learn about and interact with nurse sharks
• Snorkel at Norman's Cay Plane Wreck
• Enjoy Bahamian buffet lunch
• Relax at Exuma beach or sand bar

Top questions

How long does the Swim with Pigs tour from Nassau take?

The tour covers 5 cays over one full day, including travel by speedboat from Nassau to the Exumas.

Is lunch included on the Exuma swimming pigs tour?

Yes, a Bahamian buffet lunch at Lorraine's Cafe in Black Point is included.

Do I need to bring towels or drinks?

No need—complimentary use of towels plus unlimited beer and mojitos are provided onboard.

Can I interact with nurse sharks safely?

Yes, you'll meet friendly nurse sharks under guide supervision at Compass Cay.

What else do we see besides swimming pigs?

You’ll also visit rock iguanas and snorkel above a WWII-era plane wreck near Norman's Cay.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby for departure.

Are there weight or health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers over 275 lbs or those with spinal injuries or certain health conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes speedboat transfers across five Exuma cays, bottled water plus fruits or chips onboard, unlimited beer and mojitos to keep things lively, complimentary use of towels so you don’t have to pack your own, guided stops for swimming with pigs and nurse sharks, snorkeling gear for exploring Norman’s Cay plane wreck, plus a full Bahamian buffet lunch at Lorraine’s Cafe before heading back salty and happy.