5-Day Bahamas Swimming Pigs and Wildlife Adventure
The Exuma Cays have become famous for wildlife encounters found nowhere else on Earth. Swimming pigs wade out to greet your boat, docile nurse sharks swirl around your legs, endangered rock iguanas bask on sun-warmed rocks, and sea turtles glide through mangrove creeks. This five-day itinerary connects the dots between these remarkable animal encounters.
Each stop brings a different species and a different experience, from the comical charm of Big Major Cay's pigs to the prehistoric presence of iguanas on protected cays within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Your crewed catamaran times arrivals to avoid crowds and positions you for the most rewarding encounters with the Bahamas' wild residents.
Nassau to Shroud Cay
Depart Nassau and sail 40 nautical miles to Shroud Cay within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Kayak through mangrove creeks where juvenile sea turtles, lemon sharks, and rays glide beneath your hull. The protected waters here serve as a nursery for countless marine species. End the day at a secluded beach accessible only by water.
Overnight: Shroud Cay North Anchorage
Shroud Cay to Warderick Wells
Sail 15 nautical miles south to Warderick Wells, headquarters of the marine park. Hike to the island's highest point for panoramic views, then visit the beaches where endangered Bahamian rock iguanas bask in the sun. These prehistoric-looking reptiles are found only in the Bahamas and are remarkably unafraid of respectful visitors.
Overnight: Warderick Wells Mooring Field
Warderick Wells to Compass Cay
A 12-nautical-mile sail brings you to Compass Cay Marina, home to a resident population of nurse sharks. Wade into the marina's shallow waters to swim alongside these gentle creatures, often called the puppy dogs of the sea. The sharks are accustomed to visitors and will swim right up for a photo opportunity.
Overnight: Compass Cay Marina
Compass Cay to Staniel Cay and Big Major Cay
Sail 8 nautical miles to Staniel Cay and continue to Big Major Cay, world-famous home of the swimming pigs. Arrive early morning before day-trip boats appear. Wade into the shallows as friendly pigs swim out to greet you, hoping for apple slices and vegetable treats. Afternoon snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto completes the day.
Overnight: Staniel Cay Yacht Club
Staniel Cay to Nassau
Begin the 80-nautical-mile return passage to Nassau after a leisurely breakfast. Your chef prepares a celebratory brunch as you reflect on the week's wildlife encounters. The crew may spot dolphins riding the bow wave during the crossing. Arrive at Palm Cay Marina by late afternoon.
Overnight: Palm Cay Marina, Nassau
Trip highlights
- Swimming with the famous pigs at Big Major Cay before the crowds
- Wading with docile nurse sharks at Compass Cay Marina
- Encountering endangered Bahamian rock iguanas at Warderick Wells
- Kayaking mangrove creeks with sea turtles and juvenile sharks
- Exploring the protected Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
Frequently asked questions
- Are the swimming pigs safe to interact with?
- The pigs are generally friendly and accustomed to visitors, but they are wild animals. Keep hands flat when feeding to avoid accidental nips. Maintain a safe distance from larger pigs and never chase or corner them. Bring apples, carrots, or lettuce rather than processed foods.
- Are nurse sharks dangerous?
- Nurse sharks are docile bottom-dwellers that pose virtually no threat to humans. They have small mouths designed for crushing shellfish, not hunting large prey. The sharks at Compass Cay are habituated to visitors and will swim alongside you calmly.
- Can we see the iguanas up close?
- Yes. The Bahamian rock iguanas at Warderick Wells are unafraid of respectful visitors. However, they are a protected endangered species. Do not feed them human food, which can harm their health. Observe from a reasonable distance and let them approach on their own terms.
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Every charter is private and tailored — we'll adapt this route to your dates, pace and interests.
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