Nassau in 1 Day for Families - Guided snorkeling over shallow reef teeming with marine life
In Collaboration with Secret Cays Bahamas . Updated on February 22, 2026.
Meet at Paradise Island and board a custom 35' Donzi for a 3.5-hour powerboat trip to nearby cays. The outing includes guided snorkeling over reef habitat, opportunities to see sea turtles in the wild, a stop at Sandy Cay (featured in the Gilligan's Island trailer), and a supervised interaction with swimming pigs. Snorkel gear, bottled water, and soft drinks are provided. Captain and guide onboard
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Secret Cays Bahamas , inspired by the tour Powerboat and Snorkel Experience with Swimming Pigs and Turtles. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided snorkeling over shallow reef teeming with marine life
- Supervised interaction with swimming pigs
- Turtle viewing in natural habitat
- Visit to Sandy Cay (featured in Gilligan's Island trailer)
- Custom 35' Donzi center-console with onboard restroom and guide
Itinerary
Day 1
Half-day powerboat experience (3 hours 30 minutes). Morning and afternoon departures available; example below follows the 09:00 departure.
Meet & check-in at Paradise Island Ferry Terminal
Arrive at the meeting point, check in with the guide and confirm headcount and equipment sizes. Restroom access at the terminal before boarding.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to complete check-in and get fitted for snorkel gear.
- Bring a small dry bag or waterproof pouch for keys, phone, and children’s essentials; stowable on the boat.
- Use the terminal restrooms before boarding — the boat has one small onboard restroom but terminal facilities are larger and easier for families.
Safety briefing & boarding (custom 35' Donzi)
Short safety talk, life-jacket fitting for children and adults, and demonstration of snorkel equipment. Board the center-console powerboat and stow belongings.
Tips from local experts:
- Make sure children are wearing the properly sized life jacket provided by the crew before the boat gets underway.
- If anyone in your group is prone to seasickness, take medication 30–45 minutes before departure; inform the crew if someone needs extra assistance.
- Keep sun-protection layers handy (rash guards/hats) — you'll board with them on, and the crew can advise when it's safe to remove for snorkeling.
Powerboat transit to nearby cay (wildlife watch)
Enjoy a powerboat transit along Nassau’s coast to the snorkeling and wildlife areas. Crew will point out sights and prepare guests for snorkeling.
Tips from local experts:
- Hold onto the boat rail when moving on deck; families with small children should stay seated during faster stretches.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen before leaving the dock to reduce re-application while on the water.
- Keep cameras in a secure strap or dry bag; the crew can assist with quick photo needs while underway.
Guided snorkel at shallow reef
Guided snorkeling session over a shallow reef suitable for confident beginners and children with flotation. Guide remains in the water to assist and point out marine life.
Tips from local experts:
- Ensure each snorkel mask is properly fitted and practice a quick mask-clear while close to the boat before swimming out.
- Younger children should use a flotation aid and stay within arm’s reach of their adult — guides stay nearby for support.
- Do not touch corals or marine life; photograph with wide-angle shots to avoid getting too close.
Swim with pigs and turtle viewing
Short transit to the sandy shallows for a supervised interaction with swimming pigs and natural turtle viewing from the boat or shallow water. Crew manages animal interactions and safety.
Tips from local experts:
- Listen to the crew’s instructions about approaching animals — do not feed pigs or turtles directly from your hand unless the guide instructs and supervises.
- Keep a safe distance if any animal appears stressed; the crew will guide the family to an appropriate viewing distance.
- Rinse off with fresh water on the boat after interacting with animals and before handling snacks or electronic devices.
Beach break on Sandy Cay & return to Paradise Island
Short beach time for families to relax, take photos, and dry off. Board for the return transit to Paradise Island Ferry Terminal with arrival and disembarkation.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a lightweight towel and hat for the short beach stop; shade is limited on small cays.
- Confirm the exact return time with the captain before disembarking at the cay to avoid delays for other guests.
- Secure wet gear in a designated area on the boat for the return; bring a change of clothes if traveling onward.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Experience, Transfer, Outdoor, Attraction |
