Nassau: Swimming Pigs, Turtles & Reef Snorkel with Lunch

Summary

Swim with pigs near Rose Island then snorkel reefs and spot turtles with lunch on a private beach

You’ll jump straight into Nassau’s wild side: snorkeling bright reefs near Atholl Island, watching turtles glide by at Green Cay Sanctuary, and sharing laughs with swimming pigs on Rose Island’s private beach. With lunch included and local guides who keep things lively (and safe), expect a day that feels as real as it is memorable.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway to Rose Island before I realized how salty the wind tasted—my hair was a mess but nobody cared. The boat crew (I think one guy’s name was Marcus?) handed out masks and cracked a joke about “not feeding the fish your breakfast.” When we stopped near Atholl Island, I could hear someone laughing underwater through their snorkel. The reef was brighter than I’d expected, little flashes of yellow and blue darting between rocks. Didn’t see a turtle at first—then suddenly there it was, gliding past like it owned the place. Our guide pointed it out so quietly I almost missed it.

Back on board, everyone compared what they saw (someone swore they spotted a stingray). We drifted toward Green Cay for turtle watching—no swimming allowed here since it’s protected, which honestly made sense once you saw how peaceful it looked. There was this moment when the engines cut off and all you could hear were birds and soft water slapping against the hull. Kind of meditative. Then someone’s phone rang and we all laughed because…well, real life doesn’t stop just because you’re in paradise.

I’d heard about these swimming pigs but seeing them trot down the sand—ears flopping, snouts sniffing for snacks—was something else entirely. Kids squealed louder than the pigs did. The guides showed us how to hold out fruit so they wouldn’t nip your fingers (I still got slobbered on). Lunch was simple but good: BBQ chicken, rice, some sweet punch that tasted like vacation. Hammocks everywhere; I almost fell asleep listening to waves until someone challenged me to beach volleyball (lost badly). It wasn’t perfect—sand in my shoes, sunburn on my nose—but honestly? That’s half the fun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel, Turtle Sanctuary, Beach Club

• Snorkel near Atholl Island or Green Cay
• Watch turtles at Green Cay Sanctuary
• Relax at private beach club on Rose Island
• Interact with swimming pigs
• Enjoy buffet BBQ lunch and drinks
• Play beach games or relax in hammocks

Top questions

How long is the Nassau swimming pigs tour?

The tour lasts approximately half a day, including boat transfers and activities.

Are snorkeling gear and lunch included?

Yes, snorkel mask and lunch are included in the price.

Can you swim with turtles at Green Cay Sanctuary?

No, swimming isn’t allowed at Green Cay Sanctuary due to protection laws; turtle watching is from the boat.

Where do you meet the swimming pigs?

The swimming pig interaction happens on a private beach on Rose Island.

Is there a vegetarian option for lunch?

The reference mentions BBQ lunch; specific dietary options aren’t detailed—contact provider for details.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No, only soft drinks and bottled water are included; alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at a cash bar.

Is this tour suitable for young children?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; moderate fitness is required due to walking uphill or stairs.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkel gear (mask only), bottled water and soft drinks throughout the trip, guided turtle watching from the vessel at Green Cay Sanctuary, interaction time with swimming pigs on Rose Island’s private beach club, plus a Bahamian-style BBQ lunch before heading back to Nassau—all with no surprise charges along the way.