Nassau: Self-Drive Speedboat Ride and Pig Swimming Encounter

The best part of this Nassau outing is simple: you drive the speedboat yourself. Instead of sitting in a large boat while someone else handles the controls, you take the wheel for part of the ride to Anthol Island, then spend time feeding and swimming with pigs in clear Bahamian water. The boats carry two people, so you share the driving with a partner.

I like the small group size, capped at 10 people, and the early access to the pig beach. I also like that snorkeling equipment and a banana boat ride are included. The main catch is transport to and from the meeting point. It is not included, and the walk from the cruise port can be hot and longer than expected.

Key points to know before booking

• Drive your own two-person speedboat: A guide remains nearby, but you get the thrill of handling the boat yourself.
• Go early for a quieter pig beach: The 10 a.m. departure has often reached the island before larger boats arrive.
• Expect a short, active island stop: You have time to feed the pigs, take photos, swim, and snorkel, but this is not a full-day beach visit.
• Bring a waterproof case: Spray from the boat and swimming can leave phones, wallets, and clothes wet.
• Plan your own transport: Taxis are the practical choice from Nassau’s cruise port, and getting back afterward may need extra planning.
• Skip it if you are pregnant or have a pre-existing medical condition: The activity runs rain or shine and involves speedboats and water activities.

Driving from Nassau toward Anthol Island

This excursion packs a lot into two hours. After meeting the local team, you receive instructions for the small speedboats and set off toward Anthol Island. Each boat is designed for two people, making this feel more personal than a standard island transfer.

You do not simply sit back and watch the water. You get a chance to take the wheel and steer through the waves. That hands-on part is the main reason to choose this outing over a typical pig beach boat trip.

The exact amount of driving can depend on conditions and the guide’s instructions. Guides stay involved and can help if you feel unsure. One visitor had a guide named Kelly take over the driving when a less confident driver preferred to relax, while other people in the group drove with their partners.

That flexibility matters for families and mixed groups. A confident driver can handle more of the ride, while someone younger or nervous can still enjoy the boat without pressure. The small boats are fun, but they are not a smooth luxury transfer. Expect spray, movement, and a wet ride, especially if the water is choppy.

The route can offer more than open sea. Some outings pass impressive waterfront homes, the Atlantis area, its canals and waterfalls, and large yachts. These sights add a pleasant Nassau sightseeing element, though the exact route can change with conditions and the guide’s judgment.

The pig beach on Anthol Island

The island stop is the heart of the trip. You reach a small beach area where the pigs come into the water for food and attention. The setting is informal and attractive, with clear water, a narrow strip of sand, and a distinctly Bahamian feel.

Feeding the pigs gives you something to do right away. It also puts you close to the animals, so keep your food hand low and follow the guide’s instructions. Some pigs are small and cute, but some are large and can be pushy when food appears. That is worth knowing before you hand over a piece of melon.

The animal encounter is fun because it is active rather than purely observational. You can stand in the shallows, feed the pigs, and take photographs as they move through the water. Still, these are strong farm animals, not tame household pets. Give them space and do not let children crowd them.

Early timing makes a real difference. The 10 a.m. departure has reached the beach before larger boats on several occasions, leaving about 30 to 45 minutes with very few other people around. That gives you a much better chance at clear photos and calm time in the water.

Later departures may feel busier. The beach is small, and the pig encounter is more enjoyable when you are not competing for room at the shoreline. If your schedule allows it, I would choose the earliest available time.

The island can offer more than pigs. One outing included wild peacocks and sea turtles, while another included an eagle ray during the swim. These sightings are not guaranteed, so treat them as possible bonuses rather than promised parts of the itinerary.

Swimming, snorkeling, and the included water activities

After feeding the pigs, you can swim in the clear water around the beach. The activity includes snorkeling equipment, so you can look beneath the surface without bringing your own mask and fins.

The snorkeling portion appears to be a short add-on rather than a dedicated reef excursion. That suits you if you want a little time in the water after the pig encounter. It may disappoint you if you are booking mainly for serious snorkeling or a long reef session.

The included banana boat ride adds another splash of activity. The supplied details do not specify exactly when it takes place or how long it lasts, so ask the guide at the meeting point if this matters to your plans.

You may also want to bring your own drinking water. Snacks and drinks can be available on the island, but that is not the same as having refreshments included in the $120 price. A waterproof phone pouch or dry bag is especially useful. One person had a boat motor shut down briefly, but the larger point is that your belongings should be protected from spray and unexpected stops.

Why the small group makes a difference

The group limit is 10 people. That is a useful middle ground: you get the energy of a shared outing without being placed on a large party boat.

A small group also lets the guides adjust the pace. Some outings have stayed longer at the pig beach when conditions and timing allowed. Guides have helped nervous drivers, taken photographs, and made changes when weather affected the route.

Names connected with the local team include Kelly, King, Serena, and Andy. The experience is conducted in English, French, or Spanish, depending on the guide and booking option. If language support matters to you, confirm the available guide language when you reserve.

The guide’s role is important here. You are operating a boat, handling animals, swimming, and moving through open water in a short period. Pay attention during the safety briefing and follow directions even when the outing feels casual.

Weather, safety, and comfort

This activity operates rain or shine. That policy is important in Nassau, where a quick shower may not ruin your day but can change the comfort level of a boat ride.

Wind is the bigger concern. One outing could not take the speedboats all the way to the pigs because conditions were too windy. The operator arranged a ferry ride to the island instead, then allowed the group to use the speedboats in the harbor afterward.

That backup plan preserved much of the fun, but it also shows that the advertised experience can change for safety. You should not book this expecting complete control over the route. The operator may replace the open-water boat ride with another transfer when conditions call for it.

The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or people with pre-existing medical conditions. The combination of speed, boat movement, swimming, and climbing in and out of small craft can be demanding.

You should also expect to get wet. Wear swimwear or quick-drying clothes, use sunscreen, and keep valuables sealed. The boat ride is part of the entertainment, so staying perfectly dry is unlikely.

Getting to the meeting point from the cruise port

Transport is the least polished part of the experience. The meeting point can vary by booking option, and transportation is not included in the listed package.

The cruise port is walkable for some people, but the walk can take around 25 minutes and may be hot. One route passes through an area some people may find run down, so a taxi is the easier choice if you have children, beach gear, or limited time.

A practical tip is to keep the taxi driver’s number after being dropped off. Finding a ride back after the excursion may take more effort than finding one at the port. Some guides have helped with drop-off arrangements, including a return to a cruise ship, but you should not assume that service is included.

Build in a time cushion if you are sailing the same day. The activity lasts two hours, but your total outing also includes the ride to the meeting point, check-in, and the return journey to your ship or hotel.

Is $120 a good value?

At $120 per person, this is not the cheapest way to see swimming pigs. It is a good value if you specifically want three parts in one outing: driving a speedboat, visiting the pigs, and spending time in the water.

A standard pig beach transfer may cost less, but it will not give you the same hands-on boat experience. This excursion also includes snorkeling equipment, a banana boat ride, and beach access, which strengthens the value.

The two-person boat arrangement is useful for couples, parents with an older child, or friends who want some control over the ride. Families with several children should check how the boats and seating will be arranged. The experience is limited to two people per boat, and the boat ride may be more enjoyable for children who can follow instructions and handle spray.

The price feels less attractive if you only want to feed pigs for a few minutes. The real value comes from the driving time and the small-group format. It also compares favorably with some higher-priced pig excursions, but remember to add your taxi costs and any island refreshments.

Who should book this Nassau excursion?

I would choose this for an active couple, a small family, or anyone who finds a self-drive boat more exciting than a passive transfer. It is also a smart option for cruise passengers who want something outside the ship’s standard excursion menu.

It suits you best if you enjoy variety. In two hours, you can drive, visit a small island, feed pigs, swim, snorkel, and take photographs. The pace is brisk, but you are not locked into a single activity.

I would be more cautious if you dislike getting wet, feel uneasy in small boats, or want a slow beach day. The pig beach is attractive, but the stop is fairly short. This is an outing built around action, not long hours under an umbrella.

It also requires a little independence. You may need to arrange taxis, protect your belongings, and adapt if wind or rain changes the plan. Those are manageable concerns, but they are part of the real cost and effort.

Should you book the self-drive pig encounter?

Book it if the words drive your own speedboat matter as much to you as the pigs. The combination is unusual, the group is small, and an early start can give you a quieter stretch of beach before larger boats arrive.

Choose the earliest departure you can manage, bring a waterproof case and drinking water, and arrange your return transport before setting out. If you want a gentle, dry, fully organized beach transfer, pick another excursion. If you want a lively Nassau outing with a strong hands-on element, this is a very good use of two hours.

FAQ

How long does the speedboat and pig encounter last?

The activity lasts two hours, including the speedboat ride, island visit, pig encounter, snorkeling, and return journey.

Can I drive the speedboat myself?

Yes. You can take the wheel of a two-person speedboat for part of the trip. A guide remains available to help, and a guide can drive if you feel uncomfortable.

What is included in the $120 price?

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

Is transportation from the Nassau cruise port included?

No. Transportation is not included in the listed activity. The meeting point can vary by booking option, and you may need a taxi or walk to the location.

What languages are available?

The live guide service is available in English, French, and Spanish.

Can I cancel if my plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, subject to the booking terms.