Setting Sail on a Bahamian Adventure

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that can bring families closer together while creating unforgettable memories. So, when I heard about the opportunity to swim with pigs and spot sea turtles in the Bahamas, I knew it was a must-do for our family. We set off on a bright and sunny morning, ready to embark on this exciting adventure.

Our journey began with a short 25-minute boat ride from Nassau. The boat, named Delfinini, was clean and comfortable, with new upholstery and a vibrant color scheme that set the mood for a fun day ahead. Our crew, Jarno, Vano, and CJ, were not only skilled but also incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. They had a knack for balancing the perfect amount of time at each stop, ensuring we got the most out of our experience without feeling rushed.

The first stop was Atholl Island, where we were greeted by the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. With snorkel gear in hand, we dove into the underwater oasis, surrounded by colorful fish and coral reefs. The kids were thrilled to spot a sea turtle gliding gracefully by, a moment we captured with our waterproof phone cover. It was a magical start to our day, and the rum punch served on the boat was a delightful treat for the adults.

Piggy Time at Rose Island

After our snorkeling adventure, we headed to Rose Island, where the highlight of the tour awaited us – swimming with the pigs! The Pig Beach crew gave us a thorough safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of feeding the pigs with a stick and keeping our arms up when finished. It was fascinating to learn that the pigs are not free-roaming on the beach at all times, which explained the cleanliness of the area.

As the pigs swam out to greet us, the kids squealed with delight, and we couldn’t resist capturing the moment with our cameras. The pigs looked healthy and well-cared for, and it was heartwarming to see them enjoying the interaction as much as we did. Unfortunately, a sudden storm rolled in just as the pigs were brought out, but the crew handled it with professionalism, ensuring everyone’s safety.

Once the rain cleared, the crew kindly brought out a mama pig and her baby for photos, much to the kids’ delight. While the beach crew seemed a bit reserved, the overall experience was nothing short of amazing. We spent the rest of our time on Rose Island lounging on beach chairs, soaking in the Caribbean sun, and playing a friendly game of beach volleyball.

Tips for a Perfect Day

Reflecting on our adventure, I wanted to share some practical tips to help other families make the most of their experience. First, bring a waterproof phone cover to capture those underwater moments, especially when visiting the turtles. It’s also essential to use reef-proof sunscreen to protect the marine environment.

Baby powder is a handy trick for getting the salty stickiness off your skin and feet after a day in the water. Don’t forget to bring cash for tips, as the crew truly deserves it for their hard work and dedication. We tipped $100 for the three of us for the boat crew and $20 per person for the pig island crew.

Lastly, if you plan to have lunch on the island, be prepared for a bit of a walk to the restaurant. While we didn’t eat there, the food looked delicious, and it’s worth considering if you have the time.

Overall, our Bahamas tour was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family bonding. It’s an experience I highly recommend to any family looking to create lasting memories in a stunning tropical paradise. Until our next adventure, happy travels!