Published 4 September 2024 | Updated 13 October 2026 by Kate Acaster
Can you really swim with pigs in the Bahamas? You may have seen the pictures: pigs paddling in tropical water and dozing on sunny beaches. They demand attention, but is this really what it seems? Here is the reality.
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The Origin of the Swimming Pigs
Our porcine pals are primarily found on Big Major Cay, a serene, uninhabited island in the Exuma Cays. The story of how these pigs came to inhabit the island is as intriguing as their current antics. Some say they were left by sailors who intended to return for them, only to never come back. Others suggest the pigs were brought by local fishermen. Regardless of their origins, these pigs have become stars of the island, turning Big Major Cay into a unique animal attraction.
The Experience
Imagine this: You’re cruising in a boat through the Exuma Cays, and suddenly, you spot a beach that seems to have a splash of pink among the white sands. As you get closer, you see it’s not a mirage but a group of pigs frolicking in the water. This is the reality of a pig-swimming adventure!
Most tours will whisk you away to Big Major Cay, where you’ll have the chance to interact with these friendly swine. Picture yourself feeding them (only what your guide hands you), taking selfies, and splashing around with them in the crystal-clear waters. It’s not just an animal encounter, it’s a full-on beach party with some very photogenic guests.
Booking a Tour
Several operators offer trips to see the famous pigs, and many of these tours can be booked online before your trip. Prices vary, from roughly US$260 per person for a speedboat day trip from Nassau to about US$300 to US$350 from Staniel Cay, so it’s a good idea to compare options and see what fits your budget. Some tours also include other stops, such as snorkelling or visiting nearby islands, so you might get more bang for your buck.
Ethical and Environmental Concerns
While the idea of swimming with pigs sounds like a blast, it’s crucial to be mindful of the impact on both the pigs and their environment. The increase in visitors has raised concerns about the welfare of these animals and their habitat. When you visit, make sure to follow guidelines that help keep the pigs happy and healthy. This means feeding only what your guide provides (fruit and vegetables, never processed food), no disturbing their natural behaviour, and keeping the beaches clean.
If swimming with pigs sounds fantastic but you’re curious about other adventures, the Bahamas offers a range of exciting alternatives. How about swimming with sharks or stingrays? These thrilling encounters also provide a unique way to connect with marine life, and many tours combine these experiences for a full day on the water.
So, can you really swim with pigs in the Bahamas? Absolutely. It’s a real, delightful experience that combines sun, sea, and a splash of swine. As long as you approach this adventure with respect for the animals and their environment, you’ll be in for a truly memorable time.
Kate Acaster is Chief Editor at Flight Tribe. She writes about practical travel planning, budget airlines, baggage rules, city breaks, beach holidays and good hotels that do not cost daft money.
Kate has travelled through Europe, South America and beyond, usually with a notebook, a half-formed plan and a strong opinion on airport snacks. At Flight Tribe, her work focuses on helping UK travellers understand what is included, what costs extra, and whether a trip is worth booking at the price shown.
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Kate checks the details that can change the value of a trip, including cabin-bag rules, airline fees, hotel location, seasonality, travel dates and booking conditions. She is especially interested in offers that look useful on the surface but need a proper reader-first check before they are worth recommending.
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