Snorkeling in Nassau

Located on the island of New Province, Nassau is the capital and most extensive city of the Bahamas – a chilled-out and down-to-earth haven. A popular pleasure cruise stop, the city has a gritty urban side but also boasts pristine, powdery white beaches, jaw-dropping offshore coral reefs, and snorkeling and diving hotspots.

You will find below all you need to know about snorkeling, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Nassau.

What are the best snorkeling tours in Nassau?

Group glass bottom boat, banana boat and snorkeling tour

See the ocean from a different perspective on this fun combined snorkeling tour in Nassau. You’ll start your adventure by embarking on a glass bottom boat on an organized tour of the coral reefs and some of Nassau’s most popular landmarks and sites.

You’ll then take some time out to snorkel, where you’ll marvel at a myriad of sea creatures that call the Bahamas home. You’ll finish with an exhilarating banana boat ride that will get your adrenaline pumping.

Private boat tour for snorkeling or fishing

If you’re seeking a bit more privacy and customization, then you can’t go wrong with a private snorkeling tour in which you can either go snorkeling or fishing in Nassau’s deep waters.

You’ll be able to tailor your itinerary to your preferences and needs and can relax knowing that your trip is being taken care of by a knowledgeable local guide.

Pearl Island escape with a snorkeling experience and lunch

This is a popular snorkeling tour to take in Nassau. You’ll spend the day on the private Pearl Island, which is located just 12 kilometers from the city.

From here, you’ll have your own time to roam the island, go snorkeling in the Caribbean’s famous crystalline waters and throw down a beach towel on a deck chair before tucking into a traditional Bahamas lunch.

Nassau shore excursion

This trip is a thrilling combination of two outdoor activities. Shortly after taking a ferry cruise, your historical tour of Nassau will commence.

You’ll be traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan and can expect to see all of the city’s top sights. These include the Queen’s Staircase – an impressive  66-step limestone staircase that was built by slaves in the 1790s.

Later, a tour of the Graycliff Chocolate factory is bound to tantalize your tastebuds. You’ll then take some time to relax over lunch and can opt to snorkel at the pristine beach of  Nirvana Love. Hotel pickup and drop-off at the same location are included.

Snorkel with turtles private tour

If you’ve never snorkeled with turtles before, then this is your chance. Escape the crowds for a more private snorkeling tour where your group will enjoy an intimate experience with the sea turtles.

You’ll take in the breathtaking beauty of the Bahamas aboard a sailing boat before beginning your snorkeling excursion at Rose Island Beach. Tours typically last half a day. For a different experience, there are also tours that allow you to swim with pigs!

How much do snorkeling tours in Nassau cost?

Snorkeling tours in Nassau vary in cost depending on what type of excursion you decide to take and the duration of your trip. They are relatively expensive, but promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience like no other.

• A group glass bottom boat, banana boat and snorkeling boat tour costs around US$85 per person and is one of the most cost-effective, as well as popular tours to take. It includes complete snorkeling equipment, refreshments and a banana boat ride.
• A private boat tour for snorkeling or fishing costs around US$770 per person and is also highly sought-after. Included in this trip are an expert guide, refreshments and all necessary equipment.
• A Pearl Island escape with snorkeling experience and lunch costs around US$115 per person, which includes roundtrip ferry transportation, a guided snorkeling excursion, a meal in a local restaurant, beach chairs and snorkeling equipment.
• A shore excursion typically costs around $US220 per person, which includes a hotel or port collection and drop-off.
• A snorkel with turtles private tour is around US$170 per person, which comes with a life jacket, refreshments and snorkeling equipment.

What is included in a snorkeling tour in Nassau?

Most snorkeling equipment is included in the tours, which takes away the hassle of having to rent your own beforehand. Hotel and pickups or transfers are only included on some selected tours, as well as lunch and snacks, so it’s best to check the specific tour you have booked. Life jackets are typically included on most tours, as well as bottled water.

Where do snorkeling tours in Nassau start?

Your adventure begins at a range of different pickup points, depending on the tour you decide to take. Generally, the boats leave from Bayshore Marina, which is just a five-minute drive from downtown in Paradise Island and the Cruise Port.

Otherwise, you’ll be collected directly from your accommodation in Nassau. Other departure points include Cable Beach and, most notably, the Paradise Island ferry terminal.

How long do snorkeling tours in Nassau last?

A boat tour in Nassau may take an hour, half day, or a full day, depending on the type of activity and the number of pitstops included in your itinerary. Banana and glass bottom boat tours generally last 1 to 2 hours. Private boat tours usually last from 4 to 8 hours, and Pearl Island snorkeling trips last for 5 hours.

When is the best time for a snorkeling tour in Nassau?

Thanks to the persistently sunny skies in this part of the Caribbean, you can snorkel any time of the year in Nassau. Many visitors choose to plan a snorkeling trip during peak season, which is typically mid-December to mid-April – when most establishments are guaranteed to be open.

Is there any combo available with snorkeling tours in Nassau?

Private swimming with pigs and snorkeling in paradise tour with lunch

If you’re an animal lover and outdoor enthusiast, then this is the tour for you. On this half-day tour, you’ll relax on a luscious secluded beach, swim with pigs and savor the tastes of the Caribbean with a traditional Bahamian lunch.

Private swimming and snorkeling excursion

On this private tour, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel to your heart’s content with a knowledgeable certified diver who will show you the ropes. You can expect to swim with turtles in their natural habitat and marvel at a range of fish.

This tour is a great option for those looking for a tailored experience with friends and family, which can cater to up to 12 people.

Swimming pigs and turtle tour with lunch and drinks

For adventure seekers, this tour is bound to tick all the right boxes. First, you’ll take a snorkeling excursion around the untouched coral barrier reefs of the northern island, followed by a swim with turtles.

You’ll then get to meet the world-famous swimming pigs before having the opportunity to enjoy a Conch show and tasting session prepared by the captain himself. You can expect to dine on local Caribbean delicacies, and refreshments are included.

Is it safe to take a snorkeling tour in Nassau?

It’s perfectly safe to take a snorkeling tour in Nassau, where you’ll be provided with all the safety equipment and an expert instructor on hand to guide you each step of the way.

However, visitors should remember that snorkeling is not advised for the following groups of people, including those who are pregnant, have reduced mobility or use a wheelchair, and have heart problems.

Travel tips

• Make sure to book your tour well in advance, as trips can get booked up quickly during peak season.
• Bring a towel to use after you’ve ventured into the water and to spread along the beach.
• If possible, bring a waterproof camera – you’ll want to snap up the array of sea life this paradisal escape offers.