Spend a full day from Nassau exploring the Exuma Cays by powerboat: swim with pigs at Big Major Cay, snorkel with nurse sharks at Compass Cay, and visit the Norman’s Cay wreck. This long-distance day trip covers 150+ nautical miles and combines wildlife encounters with classic Bahamian culture.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning breaks over Nassau and the harbor hums as a powerboat slides free of its moorings, engines carving a wake that brightens the Bahamas’ turquoise lanes. The Exuma Day Away is a full-day, long-distance sea safari — roughly 150+ nautical miles round trip and about 8½ hours aboard — that stitches together rock-strewn cays, shifting sandbars and the famous pig beach at Big Major Cay.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—able to climb in/out of boats and swim in shallow open water.
Wildlife
History
The Exuma Cays are low coral islands with recent history tied to 20th-century maritime trade and, in places like Norman’s Cay, notorious smuggling activity; these stories are part of local lore.
Conservation
Operators advise limited feeding and supervised interactions to reduce stress on animals; visitors should use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral to help protect fragile marine ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Exuma Day Away - Original Swimming Pigs Excursion today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect skin and coral—use reef-safe SPF and reapply frequently during the day.
Medicate for seasickness
Long open-water transits mean rough chop at times; take antiemetic medicine before departure if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Water shoes for rocky shores
Be prepared for uneven rock and coral when boarding or exploring cays—lightweight water shoes improve footing.
Carry small cash
Bring local cash for tips, souvenirs, or optional purchases at Black Point Yacht Club.
Swimsuit & towel
Quick-dry swimwear and a towel for multiple swim stops and on-boat comfort.
summer
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and local coral ecosystems during extended sun exposure.
summer
Lightweight water shoes
Improves traction on rocky beaches and when stepping from boats to sandbars.
Mask/snorkel (personal)
Brings clearer views and a more comfortable snorkeling experience than rental gear.
summer