Nassau — the capital of the Bahamas — is a bustling city with a rich history of piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, it is known as a gateway to some of the Bahamas' most picturesque islands and cays.

You can explore the pristine coral reefs, clear waters and white sand beaches that surround the island on a boat tour from Nassau. Whether you want to snorkel, fish or relax, a boat trip from Nassau is sure to create lasting memories.

You will find below everything you need to know about boat tours, one of the most fun sightseeing tours in Nassau.

What are the most popular boat tours from Nassau?

There are several different options for boat tours from Nassau, depending on which activities you'd like to do and places you'd like to see.

Glass bottom boat, banana boat and snorkeling tour from Nassau

This tour allows you to see all of the creatures that call this stretch of the Bahamas home as you roam the seas in a glass-bottomed boat. You'll have the opportunity to see groupers, snappers and turtles in their natural habitat, which will keep you thoroughly entertained on your journey.

You'll head to a snorkeling spot where you'll be able to get closer to the shoals of fish that thrive under the sea. To make your trip even more memorable, your tour will end with a thrilling banana boat ride at Cable Beach.

Nassau catamaran sail and eco-snorkeling tour

This half-day tour takes place on a luxurious catamaran and heads towards the Sea Garden conservation area. Along the way, you'll see the most iconic sights of Nassau from a different angle, including its renowned harbor.

The tour operator is in favor of preserving healthy coral reefs and enables you to explore the ocean without causing harm to marine life.

The conservation area is abundant with vibrant tropical species of fish, as well as a plethora of other creatures, including turtles and rays.

Full-day private motorboat tour to Rose Island and Turtle Cay

If you want to escape the crowds, you should consider a private Nassau boat excursion. You'll sail to Rose Island, which is totally secluded and has pigs freely roaming its shores.

You'll enjoy a gourmet lunch on the beach or aboard your boat, before traveling to Green Turtle Cay for a spot of snorkeling.

As its name suggests, Green Turtle Cay is the perfect spot to swim with the beloved green creatures, among many other species of tropical fish.

How much do boat tours from Nassau cost?

The price of boat tours from Nassau varies depending on whether you decide to participate in a group excursion or a private trip.

Glass bottom boat tours cost approximately US$90, while catamaran trips cost between US$70 and US$100.

You can also participate in a fishing charter excursion, which costs between US$830 and US$2,860, depending on how long the tour lasts.

Private boat tours that visit Rose Island and Green Turtle Cay cost around US$4,000 for a group of up to 15 people. With the maximum number of participants, you'll pay just over US$250 per person.

Which places are visited with a boat tour from Nassau?

Green Turtle Cay

At just under 5 kilometers in length, Green Turtle Cay is one of the smallest islands in the Abaco archipelago. Despite its small size, the island is inhabited by roughly 450 people and has several beach-side bars and restaurants.

While the island is idyllic, its pristine waters are what bring tourists flocking. Green turtle numbers have reduced in recent years, but you’ll still find plenty of turtles that measure over a meter in length swimming in the sea.

You can also see colorful reefs and several species of shark, which makes Green Turtle Cay a snorkeler's paradise.

Pearl Island

Pearl Island is located just over 10 kilometers off the coast of Nassau and is the ideal place to visit if you're looking for a relaxing trip. The private island is home to world-class snorkeling spots, as well as luxurious beachside resorts and restaurants.

When swimming in the waters surrounding the isle, you can expect to see parrot fish, porcupine fish, moray eels and sand divers. There are also several species of sea life present that are endemic to the Bahamas, including the Bahamas shrimp and Bahamas grunt.

Rose Island

Rose Island is a well-known spot for boat trips from Nassau, which has managed to hold onto its paradisiacal charm. The island is a regular jaunt for private excursions, which enable you to explore the remote beaches surrounding the small expanse of land.

One of the highlights of Rose Island is the pigs that inhabit its deserted beaches. Six of the adorable hairy creatures roam the island's wildlife sanctuary freely. They are well looked after and even have their sunscreen applied for them.

Alongside feeding and playing with the pigs, you can choose to swim with them, which creates a lasting memory of your time in the Bahamas.

How long does a boat trip last?

Most boat tours from Nassau are half-day excursions, which last approximately four hours. Some fishing charter tours enable you to explore the region for a full day.

If you don't have much time to spare, you can arrange a sunset dinner cruise that lasts two hours and sails through the waters surrounding Nassau.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Most boat tours from Nassau meet at the Paradise Island ferry terminal. Paradise Island is located just off the north shore of Nassau and is connected to the main island by a bridge.

Another popular meeting point is Bayshore Marina which is located on the north shore of Nassau. It is easily accessible from Paradise Island, as well as downtown Nassau.

When is the best time for a boat trip from Nassau?

The best time for a boat tour from Nassau is during the dry season — between December and June. Outside of this season, the region is prone to hurricanes and boat trips are not advisable.

Boat trips are enjoyable at any time of day, but if you want to create a romantic setting, opt for a sunset cruise from Nassau.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Nassau?

Travel tips

Make sure to bring a swimsuit and beach towel on all boat tours from Nassau.
It is easy to get sunburned while snorkeling. Make sure to cover yourself with reef-safe sunscreen and consider wearing a t-shirt if your skin is especially sensitive to the sun.
Arrange a boat tour that allows you to swim with pigs for an unforgettable experience in the Bahamas.

Boat Tours in Nassau