Nassau: Private Rose Island, Turtles & Gilligan's Island Charter

Private Nassau boat trip with turtles, Rose Island beaches, fishing and Gilligan’s Island stops

You’ll ride out from Nassau on your own private boat, watch wild turtles surface at Green Cay, swim or snorkel at Rose Island’s soft beaches, and maybe try fishing or lunch at a local bar & grill along the way. Expect small surprises—like turtle sightings or friendly locals—and moments of quiet beauty you’ll carry home long after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore beaches, turtles, fishing, and island

• Arrive at Green Cay to view turtles
• Enjoy white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at Rose Island
• Relax, explore, or snorkel at Gilligan's Island
• Try fishing for Grouper, Wahoo, Mahi, and barracuda

The Experience

I actually forgot my sunglasses in the rush to get down to the marina — which I regretted about ten minutes into the ride out of Nassau. The sun bounced off that turquoise water like it was showing off. Our captain, Dwayne, just laughed and handed me a spare pair (“happens every day,” he said). So yeah, we started out a little squinty but honestly? That first blast of salty air woke me up better than coffee ever could.

We drifted up to Green Cay and everyone got quiet for a second — except for this one little kid who kept pointing at the water. Suddenly there were these turtle heads poking up all around us, blinking like they were as surprised as we were. You can’t swim with them (which is fair), but watching them from the boat felt almost better somehow. There was this slow hush over the group until someone’s phone went off with a ringtone that sounded like steel drums. I still think about that peaceful moment whenever I hear that sound now.

Afterwards we hit Rose Island — sand so soft it squeaked under my feet. A couple of us tried snorkeling (I mostly flailed around), while others just lounged or wandered down the beach toward the bar & grill. Lunch isn’t included but you can grab something there; I had grilled fish that tasted way better than it looked (sorry chef). There was volleyball going on too, and some locals joined in — I didn’t even try because last time I played beach volleyball I ended up face-first in the sand.

Gilligan’s Island (they call it Sandy Cay too) was our last stop. It’s weird seeing a place you’ve only known from Instagram actually stretch out in front of you. The light there is different — almost blue-white — and everything feels slowed down. We tried fishing off the edge for a bit (caught nothing but seaweed) before heading back. Honestly, if you’re looking for a private charter near Nassau that doesn’t feel rushed or touristy, this is it. Just don’t forget your sunglasses.

Top questions

Can I swim with turtles on this Nassau private charter?

No, swimming with turtles isn’t allowed at Green Cay—you’ll watch them from the boat.

Is lunch included on the Rose Island & Gilligan's tour?

No, lunch is not included but you can buy food at a beach bar & grill during the trip.

Does this tour include swimming with pigs?

No, swimming with pigs is not included unless you pay extra to add it on.

What activities are possible on this private charter?

You can snorkel, try inshore fishing, relax on beaches, visit Gilligan's Island and see turtles at Green Cay.

Are snorkeling equipment and fishing gear provided?

Yes, both snorkeling equipment and inshore fishing gear are included in your day trip.

Is this Nassau charter suitable for families with kids?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller and all fitness levels are welcome.

How long do we spend at each island?

The timing is flexible since it’s a private charter—your group can decide how long to stay at each stop.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water plus use of all provided snorkeling equipment and inshore fishing gear; you’ll also have time to buy lunch or drinks at a local beach bar & grill before cruising back toward Nassau in the afternoon.