Nassau: Self-Drive Speedboat Ride and Pig Swimming Encounter

The best Nassau thrills come with a steering wheel. This two-hour outing lets you drive a two-person speedboat across New Providence’s clear waters, then stop at Anthol Island for swimming pigs, snorkeling, and beach time. I like the freedom of handling the boat yourself, and I especially like the early departures, which can bring you to the pigs before larger boats arrive.

I also like the small-group setup, limited to 10 people, and the friendly guides, including Kelly, King, Serena, and Andy on different departures. The main drawback is practical: transportation from the cruise port may not be included, and the meeting point can change with the option you book. Also, the pigs can be pushy, and rough weather may alter the boat portion.

Key points to know before booking

• You really can drive the speedboat: Each boat carries two people, with a guide nearby to help and take over if needed.
• Early morning is the smart choice: The 10 a.m. departure has often reached the pig beach before larger groups.
• The island visit is more than a photo stop: You have time to feed the pigs, swim, snorkel, and relax on the beach.
• The small group keeps things personal: With no more than 10 participants, guides can pay close attention to each boat.
• Bring protection for your belongings: You will get wet, so a waterproof case or bag is useful for phones and cameras.

What the Nassau speedboat and pig trip is really like

At $120 per person, this is one of Nassau’s more active water excursions. You get a speedboat ride, time with the swimming pigs, snorkeling equipment, a beach area, and a banana boat ride within a two-hour outing.

The strongest part is the combination of control and scenery. Many boat excursions leave you sitting on a bench while someone else handles the route. Here, you get a chance to take the wheel and feel the boat respond as it moves through the waves.

The boats are small, but that is part of the appeal. A two-person craft feels more direct and playful than a large ferry. You should expect spray and a bumpy ride, especially if the water is choppy. If you prefer a calm, dry boat trip, this is not the right pick.

The tour is offered with live guides in English, French, or Spanish. The group limit of 10 matters because the guide can keep an eye on the boats and give help when needed. If you feel unsure at the controls, the guide can assist. One family member reported that Kelly drove for her when she was uncomfortable, while other members of the group took turns driving their own boats.

Getting from Nassau to the water

The meeting point depends on the option you book, so check your confirmation carefully before setting out. Transportation from the cruise port is not consistently included, and this is the one part of the outing that requires extra planning.

Some cruise passengers walked to the meeting area. One person described it as about a 25-minute walk from the port, while another found a taxi easier and more comfortable. The walk can be hot, and the route may not feel especially scenic. I would use a taxi if you are carrying beach gear, traveling with children, or working with a tight cruise schedule.

If you take a taxi to the meeting point, ask the driver about a return ride and keep the number if possible. One excursion booking included no return transportation, which created a headache after the activity. Another guide dropped a cruise passenger directly at a ship, but you should treat that as a helpful exception, not a guaranteed service.

Cruise passengers need to leave enough time on both ends. The activity itself lasts two hours, but the transfer to the meeting point and the return trip are separate matters. The tour operator accommodated one group that came late off its ship, but you should not rely on that when all-aboard time is fixed.

Taking the wheel across New Providence waters

After the guide checks everyone in and handles the required waiver, you receive instructions for the small speedboats. The exact amount of driving time can vary with conditions and the group, but taking the wheel is a central feature rather than a token turn.

You normally share the boat with one other person. That works well for couples, friends, and families who want to switch drivers. It can be less convenient if you are traveling alone, since the boats are designed for two people.

The ride gives you a different view of Nassau than a standard city tour. Several routes pass by grand waterfront homes, yachts, and the Atlantis area. One group even drove through the Atlantis waterfalls and canals, while another stopped to see the foundations at Atlantis on the way back. The exact route can change, so think of these sights as possible extras rather than promised stops.

The guides remain nearby and help the group keep together. That support makes the activity accessible to people who have little boating experience, though you still need to be comfortable with motion, spray, and the responsibility of steering a small craft.

The boats can get wet inside and out. Put your phone, wallet, cruise card, and spare clothes in a waterproof case or dry bag. A waterproof phone pouch is not just a nice extra here. It protects the one item you are most likely to use for photos.

Reaching Anthol Island and the pig beach

The island stop is the heart of the outing. You arrive at a small beach area, then spend time feeding and swimming near the pigs. The setting is simple rather than polished, with a narrow beach, clear water, and an easygoing Bahamian feel.

The pigs are the obvious stars, but they are not stuffed animals. Some are large, and one person warned that they can be aggressive when food appears. Keep your fingers clear, listen to the guide, and do not crowd an animal for a better photograph.

The food is generally melon, according to one detailed account. You can feed the pigs from the shoreline and take photos as they move through the shallow water. The scene can be funny and chaotic, especially when several pigs decide that your hand is the most important object on the island.

Timing makes a major difference. The 10 a.m. slot has been especially popular because the first group may have the beach almost alone for 30 to 45 minutes. Larger boats arrive later, so an early start gives you quieter photographs and more room around the animals.

That early access also changes the mood. Instead of lining up behind a large crowd, you can take your time, watch the pigs come out, and swim after feeding them. I would choose the earliest available option if your schedule allows.

The island is not only about pigs. Reports also describe wild peacocks and sea turtles nearby, as well as clear water around the beach. These sightings are not guaranteed, but they add interest for anyone who enjoys simple nature encounters.

Snacks and drinks may be available on the island, but bring water if you can. The outing takes place outdoors in sun, wind, and spray, and two hours can feel long if you arrive without hydration.

Swimming, snorkeling, and the included water activities

After feeding the pigs, you have time to swim and use the provided snorkeling equipment. This gives the stop some breathing room. You are not rushed from boat to pig beach and straight back again.

The water is described as clear, and some groups saw sea turtles and an eagle ray while swimming. Those sightings depend on the day and conditions. The snorkeling is best viewed as a pleasant extra, not a full reef expedition with a long instructional session.

The supplied equipment means you do not need to pack your own mask and snorkel. You may still prefer personal gear if you have a strong fit preference, but the inclusion helps keep the $120 price reasonable.

A banana boat ride is also included. The supplied details do not specify exactly when it takes place, so ask the guide at the start if this activity is important to you. The same applies to the length of snorkeling time, since the group may need to adjust for wind, water conditions, and the return schedule.

The beach time is valuable because it gives you a chance to slow down. After the excitement of driving, feeding animals, and taking photos, you can simply kick back by the water before returning to Nassau.

The return ride and Nassau sights

The trip back is not merely a transfer. Depending on the route, you may pass the Atlantis area, waterfront homes, colorful buildings, large yachts, or working fishermen.

One memorable stop involved watching a fisherman open conch. That kind of brief local detail gives the return ride more character than a straight run back to the dock. Still, routes and pauses can vary, so do not book this specifically as an Atlantis sightseeing tour.

The return speedboat ride gives you another chance to drive. If you shared the controls on the way out, switch drivers for the return so both people get a turn.

A past outing had an engine that kept shutting down, though the participant still described the day as excellent overall. That sounds like an isolated mechanical problem, but it is worth remembering that small boats are working equipment, not theme-park rides. Weather and mechanical issues can affect the plan.

The experience operates rain or shine. Wind is more important than light rain because rough conditions can make the open-water crossing uncomfortable or unsafe. On one windy day, the operator used a ferry ride to reach the pigs and then offered self-drive boats in the harbor later. That flexibility saved the main parts of the day, but the original open-water ride was not possible.

Is $120 a good value in Nassau?

I consider $120 per person a fair price if you want several activities in one compact outing. You are paying for a speedboat ride, a chance to drive, the pig encounter, beach access, snorkeling equipment, and a banana boat ride. Comparable pig outings can cost much more, especially through cruise lines or hotels.

The price looks even better for couples and families who care about active participation. You are not only transported to a photo stop. You take part in the boat ride, choose who drives, feed the pigs, and have time in the water.

The value drops slightly if you need door-to-door transportation or a long, structured snorkeling session. Since the meeting point may require a taxi, add that cost and allow time for the return. Cruise-booked excursions may be simpler for transport, but this independent option can offer more control and a smaller group.

A family with children aged 6, 9, and 15 had a good time, with adults and older children sharing the boats. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or people with pre-existing medical conditions, and the operator should be told about any concern before booking.

Who will enjoy this most?

I would recommend this for couples, families with older children, and anyone who wants an active Nassau outing rather than a passive beach transfer. You should enjoy boats, water spray, animals, and a little hands-on adventure.

It is particularly good for cruise passengers who find the ship’s organized excursions too expensive or too crowded. The small group and early arrival can make the pig beach feel far more relaxed than a large group visit.

I would be cautious if you dislike unpredictable weather, have trouble with small boats, or want a quiet animal encounter. The pigs can be forceful around food, and the speedboat ride is not gentle in rough water.

The guides are a major part of the experience. Kelly helped one nervous driver, while Serena and Andy received special thanks for making another outing memorable. King was also praised for being welcoming and professional before departure. The exact guide varies, but the pattern is clear: attentive staff can make the driving feel manageable and the day feel personal.

Small details that make the day easier

Wear a swimsuit or quick-drying clothes. You will likely get wet from spray, swimming, or both.

Bring sunscreen, water, and a waterproof case. A towel and dry change of clothes are also sensible, though the supplied information does not confirm that towels are provided.

Pick the earliest time you can manage. The 10 a.m. departure has repeatedly offered the best chance of reaching the pigs before larger groups.

Ask where the meeting point is before leaving your hotel or ship. If you use a taxi, keep the driver’s contact information for the return.

Keep your cruise schedule visible. The activity lasts two hours, but transport is separate, and the return plan may require additional time.

Cancellation is flexible up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and you can reserve now while paying later. The exact starting time is based on availability.

FAQ

How long does the Nassau speedboat and pig encounter last?

The activity lasts two hours. That time includes the speedboat ride, the island visit, the pig encounter, and water activities.

What is included in the $120 price?

The price includes the speedboat ride, pig swimming encounter, snorkeling equipment, banana boat ride, and access to a beach area.

Can I drive the speedboat myself?

Yes. The boats are designed for two people, and you can take the wheel for part of the journey. A guide remains nearby and can assist if you are uncomfortable.

How many people are in the group?

The group is limited to 10 participants. The small size allows the guides to pay closer attention to the boats and the people in them.

What languages are available?

Live guides are available in English, French, and Spanish.

Is transportation from the cruise port included?

The meeting point may vary by booking option, and transportation is not consistently included. Some people walk from the cruise port, while others use a taxi. Check your specific booking details.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The activity operates rain or shine, but wind can change the plan. On one windy day, the group used a ferry to reach the pigs and later drove the speedboats in the harbor.

Should you book this Nassau excursion?

I would book it if you want the rare combination of self-drive boating and a pig beach without paying cruise-line prices. The early timing, small group, attentive guides, and extra snorkeling time make it a strong value at $120.

Book the earliest departure available, arrange your own return transportation in advance, and protect your phone from water. Skip it if you are pregnant, have a pre-existing medical condition, dislike small boats, or need a guaranteed open-water route in every kind of weather. For an active couple or family that wants more than a standard Nassau beach stop, this is a lively, memorable choice.