Part of our Bahamas guide.
Swimming with pigs excursions in the Bahamas take you to the Exuma Cays, where you’ll meet the famous swimming pigs on their home beaches. The experience is a short boat ride from Staniel Cay or a longer charter from Nassau, and it’s the main reason many visitors come to this part of the islands.
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Staniel Cay Travel Guide - Exuma Cays, Bahamas
Staniel Cay sits in the heart of the Exuma Cays, an archipelago of turquoise waters and white sandy beaches known for its marine life and untouched beauty. The island is home to Thunderball Grotto, an underwater cave system made famous by the James Bond movie "Thunderball," and it draws snorkeling, diving, and boating enthusiasts year-round.
The pig encounter typically happens on Big Major Cay, a short boat ride from Staniel Cay. Most tours depart from Staniel Cay’s marina, and you can also arrange a private charter from Nassau, which takes about 2–3 hours by boat. The pigs wade into the water when they see a boat approach. The best time to go is in the morning when the water is calm and the pigs are most active. You can feed them fresh fruit or vegetables—many tours include a stop for food—but avoid feeding them anything processed or salty.
Beyond the pigs, Staniel Cay offers a glimpse of local Bahamian life. The Staniel Cay Yacht Club is a good spot for a meal or a drink after your swim, and you can rent a golf cart to explore the island’s small roads. If you’re staying longer, consider booking a vacation rental or a room at the club. For those who want to extend their trip, you might also want to apply for a Bahamas tourist visa in US if you’re a non-citizen planning a longer stay, though most visitors from the US do not need one for short visits.
How Can I Buy Casino Chips As A Souvenir
Casino chips hold more than monetary value—they represent a lasting memento of a visit and a tangible piece of gambling culture found in destinations from Las Vegas to Macau to the Bahamas.
If you’re in the Bahamas and want to buy casino chips as a souvenir, visit the gift shop at one of the major resorts, such as Atlantis on Paradise Island. Many casinos sell sets of chips in a display case, or you can ask at the cashier’s cage—they often have commemorative chips for sale. Some visitors buy chips from the tables and keep them as keepsakes, but note that chips from different casinos may have different designs, so pick ones that appeal to you. If you’re not staying at a casino resort, you can still visit the public areas and purchase chips from the shop.
Your Guide To Swimming With Pigs In The Bahamas
In the Bahamas, you have the unique opportunity to swim with these friendly creatures. The swimming pigs have become a distinctive attraction, drawing visitors from around the world and turning the Exumas into a must-visit destination for animal lovers and adventure seekers.
When you book a swimming pigs excursion, you’ll typically meet your guide at a designated dock, often in Nassau or on Staniel Cay. The boats are usually small, carrying a dozen or so passengers, and the ride can be bumpy on open water, so consider taking motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness. Once you arrive, you’ll have about 30–45 minutes in the water with the pigs. They’ll swim around you, and you can pose for photos or just float and watch them. Wear water shoes—the sea floor can be rocky—and bring a waterproof bag for your phone and valuables. Most tours include snorkeling gear, so you can also explore the nearby reefs after your pig encounter.
