From Nassau: Swim with Pigs Safari

The main event is exactly as advertised: you board at Nassau’s Woodes Rodgers Walk, cruise past Atlantis, then step ashore to feed pigs that paddle through clear Bahamian water. The small boats make this feel more personal than a large cruise excursion, and the crew keeps the mood light with music, drinks, and easygoing conversation.

I especially like the two snorkeling stops, including sightings of turtles, barracuda, and tropical fish, plus the free photos and videos. Guides including TJ, Taye, Captain Teggy, and Ricco have earned praise for being attentive and fun. The main consideration is the tight two-hour schedule, which leaves limited time at each stop and can feel short if you want a long beach stay.

Key points at a glance

• Swimming pigs at Athol Island: Feed the pigs, watch them paddle, and take photos with piglets.
• Atlantis Tunnel cruise: Pass the resort’s tunnel and waterfalls as part of the boat ride.
• Small-group feel: Boats commonly carry about six to eight people, though group size can vary.
• Snorkeling with sea life: The route can include fish, turtles, and other marine life near Pearl Island.
• Drinks and photos included: Water, soft drinks, local beer, rum punch, light snacks, Wi-Fi, and complimentary photography are provided.
• Easy cruise-port meeting point: Find the staff on Woodes Rodgers Walk, just before Señor Frog’s.

What this Nassau pig safari is really like

This is a compact sea outing built around three pleasures: a fast, scenic boat ride, a close encounter with pigs, and a short snorkeling session. You are not signing up for a long island expedition. You are booking a lively two-hour taste of the Bahamas that fits neatly into a cruise day or a short stay in Nassau.

The tour leaves from Woodes Rodgers Walk, a handy waterfront location near the cruise port. Staff from Bahamas Water Toys and Tours meet you just before the entrance to Señor Frog’s, check your reservation, and direct you to the correct boat. If you are coming off a ship, this location saves you a long taxi ride and makes the start less stressful.

The boats are described as well maintained, with coolers, ice, music, Wi-Fi, and life vests for all ages. You should still expect a proper open-water boat outing, not a quiet harbor cruise. Wind, spray, and changing weather are part of the deal, so wear a swimsuit and bring a towel, sunscreen, and a small amount of cash or a card for purchases along the way.

Large bags and luggage are not allowed. That is sensible on a small boat, but it means you should leave your suitcase and bulky beach gear elsewhere.

The Atlantis Tunnel adds more than a photo stop

The first major sight is Atlantis Bahamas, viewed from the water as the boat passes through the Atlantis Tunnel area. The stop lasts about 30 minutes and includes sightseeing, a guided look, and photo opportunities.

This section is less about getting off the boat and more about seeing the resort from a different angle. You get scenic views of the tunnel and waterfalls while the guide shares information and keeps the ride moving. It gives the trip a clear sense of place before the animals and snorkeling begin.

I like this opening because it breaks up the ride and gives you something to photograph before reaching Pig Beach. The tradeoff is that it is a pass-by experience, not a full Atlantis visit. If you want the resort’s aquarium, pools, or major attractions, you would need a separate ticket and much more time.

The crew also uses the boat ride to set the tone. Captain Teggy and first mate Ricco have been singled out for playing good music and sharing information along the route. TJ and Taye are also named as guides who keep the trip friendly and organized. Guide assignments can change, but the tour clearly depends on an active crew rather than a silent transfer.

Meeting the swimming pigs at Athol Island

Pig Beach is the heart of the excursion. At Athol Island, you have about 30 minutes for photos, a guided visit, and time near the swimming pigs. Food is provided so you can feed them, and the pigs may paddle through the shallow turquoise water or perform the familiar tricks that have made this attraction famous.

The experience is simple and photogenic. You stand near the water, hold out food, and watch the pigs trot or swim toward you. Piglets are part of the appeal, and the crew may help you get a closer photo. One crew member has been praised for helping people skip a line for pig food and arranging a picture with a piglet.

That personal help matters. Pig Beach can become crowded, and a small boat may get you onto the island with less waiting than a large group. The tour is promoted as avoiding overcrowded boats, and several outings have had only a handful of people onboard. One group even had the boat to itself. You should not assume a private charter, but the usual group size is described as roughly six to eight people.

The pigs are friendly animals, but this is still a wildlife encounter. Follow the crew’s instructions, feed only what is provided, and give the animals room. Children may love the activity, but parents should stay close because the excitement can get lively around food and water.

Thirty minutes passes quickly. You have enough time for the main photo and feeding experience, but not for a slow beach afternoon. If your priority is lounging on sand, this tour may feel rushed. If you want a memorable animal encounter without giving up the rest of your Nassau day, the short stop works well.

Snorkeling near Pearl Island

After Pig Beach, the boat heads toward Pearl Island for a longer 45-minute stop that combines swimming and snorkeling. Snorkeling gear and life vests are supplied, so you do not need to pack your own equipment.

The underwater part is a useful counterweight to the pig visit. Instead of staying on land, you get into the water and look for tropical fish, coral, turtles, and other marine life. One outing included two snorkeling locations, with one spot focused on fish and another where turtles were seen. Another group spotted a barracuda.

Sightings depend on weather, water conditions, and luck. The tour promises access to underwater locations, not a guaranteed list of animals. That distinction is important. You might see turtles and unusual fish, or you may have a quieter session with smaller reef life.

The 45-minute window is enough for a proper swim, but it includes getting gear on and off, entering the water, and listening to safety instructions. I would treat it as a lively introduction to Bahamian snorkeling rather than a dedicated reef trip. Strong swimmers will have more freedom, while less confident swimmers can use the provided life vest.

Bad weather does not automatically cancel the fun. One group went out on a day with poor weather, and the crew adjusted the plan to include two snorkeling stops. Still, the sea can affect comfort and visibility. If you are sensitive to motion or hoping for calm water, check the forecast and keep your expectations flexible.

What is included for the $140 to $175 price

The supplied details show two prices: a headline price of $140 per person and another starting price of $175. Since activity prices can change by date, booking channel, and availability, check the live price before paying. That difference is large enough to affect the value calculation.

The package includes:

• Round-trip boat transportation
• A live English-speaking guide
• Access to Pig Beach and the pig encounter
• Snorkeling gear
• Life vests for all ages
• Water, soft drinks, local beer, and rum punch
• Light snacks
• Cooler and ice
• Wi-Fi
• Music and entertainment
• Complimentary photography
• Atlantis Tunnel sightseeing

Lunch is not included, although food can be bought at some stops. You should eat before departure or plan to purchase something if needed. The included refreshments are useful on a short boat trip, but they do not replace a meal.

At $140, the price looks strong for a small-group boat ride with two water activities, drinks, gear, and photos. At $175, the value still depends on how much you care about the pigs and the smaller boat. A large-group tour may cost less, while a private charter will usually cost more. The included photography also saves you from spending the entire trip trying to take pictures with a wet phone.

For cruise passengers, the convenient meeting point adds real value. You avoid the time and cost of arranging a separate transfer, though the tour does not include hotel or cruise-port pickup. You must walk to Woodes Rogers Walk on your own.

How the crew shapes the experience

The boat and route matter, but the crew can make or break a short excursion. With only two hours, there is no room for long delays or vague directions.

The staff names most often connected with the experience are TJ, Taye, Captain Teggy, and Ricco. You may not have all four on your departure, but the guide team handles the practical details: boarding, drinks, pig food, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and photos.

The strongest part of the service is its attention to small comforts. You can request water or other included drinks, listen to music during the ride, and leave some of the picture-taking to the crew. One group praised the free photos and videos because it allowed them to put their phones away and enjoy the outing.

That does not mean the trip is formal or polished like a luxury yacht charter. It is a relaxed, social boat tour with a party-like feel. Families enjoyed the music, and adults may appreciate the rum punch and local beer. If you prefer a quiet naturalist trip with long explanations, this may not be your style.

Who should book this tour

I would recommend it most strongly to cruise passengers, families, couples, and first-time visitors who want several classic Nassau activities in one short outing. You get an animal encounter, a sightseeing cruise, swimming, snorkeling, and refreshments without spending a full day away from the port.

It is also a good fit if you care about group size. The boats are not marketed as overcrowded, and the typical group can be as small as six to eight people. That gives you more room to ask questions, move around during the ride, and get help with photos.

Families should note that life vests are provided for all ages, and children have found the pigs especially memorable. Parents still need to supervise closely around the boat, the water, and the animals.

I would be more cautious if you are pregnant, since the activity is specifically listed as unsuitable for pregnant women. I would also think twice if you dislike boat motion, need a long, slow snorkeling session, or want a guaranteed turtle sighting.

Book at least 24 hours ahead if you want the option of a full refund for cancellation. The reserve-now, pay-later option helps keep your schedule flexible. Bring only what you need for the water, since large bags and luggage are not allowed.

Should you book the Swimming Pigs Safari?

Book it if you want an upbeat, efficient Nassau outing with a small-group boat, friendly crew, swimming pigs, and a chance to see turtles or tropical fish. The combination is hard to match in only two hours, especially with drinks, gear, and photography included.

I would choose it over a large cruise excursion when the price is close, provided the current rate is nearer $140 than $175. Just remember that Pig Beach is a quick stop, the snorkeling conditions can change, and the price shown at booking should be confirmed. For a lively first taste of the Bahamas rather than a full-day island escape, this tour makes a strong choice.

FAQ

Where does the tour meet?

Meet on Woodes Rodgers Walk, just before the entrance to Señor Frog’s. Bahamas Water Toys and Tours staff will greet you and help you board the correct vessel.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts two hours, including the boat ride, Atlantis Tunnel sightseeing, the Pig Beach visit, and snorkeling near Pearl Island.

What is the price?

The supplied information lists $140 per person and also gives a starting price of $175 per person. Check the current booking price for your chosen date.

What language is the tour offered in?

The live tour guide speaks English.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Unlimited water, soft drinks, local beer, and rum punch are included onboard, along with light snacks.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling gear and life vests for all ages are included.

Can I feed the pigs?

Yes. The Pig Beach visit includes interaction with the pigs, and food is provided for feeding them.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, but food can be purchased at some stops along the way.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You must make your own way to Woodes Rodgers Walk.

Can I bring luggage or a large bag?

No. Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour.