Swimming with the pigs and shark in Exuma Bahamas is another one for you bucket list and was on mine too for a while before we finally realized this dream.
The first question when planning your trip is how to get there and where to stay?.
The best option if you are in the Miami area to get to Staniel Cay is flying with “Watermarkers Air” from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, If you are a Staniel Cay Yacht Club cottage guest you can receive a discounted airfare. Approximately $500 round-trip. If you do not see flights on the day or time you are looking for, you can call to the office and they accommodate your desired dates of travel.
Staniel Cay Yacht club offers waterfront bungalows, ranging from $185-$460 depending on season and bungalow chosen. Staniel Cay Yacht club does also offer packages which include 3 meals a day, bikes, snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards and access to a 13’ or 17′ skiff, including fuel. The best option to explore the neighboring island for yourself.
“Maybe pigs don’t fly, but they certainly can swim!”
The highlight of our stay and one of the main reasons we came to Staniel Cay was to swing with the pigs on the neighboring island. A short boat ride landed us to a Pig Beach-Big Majoy Cay where the only inhabitants walk on four legs and had funny noses. Don’t forget some veggie snacks and water and they’ll come right to you!
Warning! Beware with “Big Mama Karma” like karma she will bite you in the butt.
TIP: So if you want to avoid being with a lot of people and to be able to take better pictures, it’s worth arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the tours left.
Meeting the locals
Our next stop was Compass Cay and mingle with the locals, the locals of course being these guys, the pets.
I was very nervous at first but after swimming with Nurse Sharks I can honestly say it’s more fun than scary and is a great way to have a unique adventure that can’t be found everywhere you go.
Tips: There is a dockage fee to swim with the sharks. You must bring cash. $10 p.p.
James Bond Time
Just off of Staniel Cay lies Thunderbolt Grotto, an underwater cave system. The grotto got its name back in 1965 from the James Bond movie “Thunderball” which was shot here.
At low tide, is the only time snorkelers can get into the cave. Entering at high tide is possible with diving equipment. Thunderbolt Grotto is a popular spot for underwater cave diving, but diving is not required to have an amazing time. Expect to see exotic marine life.
Paradise Found
We also stopped at the most beautiful sandbar of the Bahamas that look out of the world.
Have you been to the swimming pigs and sharks yet or is it on your bucket list also ?
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