Private Charter for snorkeling, swimming pigs, turtles & fishing….

This is an easy way to buy yourself a half-day of island freedom on the water, without joining a long shared boat line. You pick what you want to do, from snorkeling to swimming with pigs and turtles, then you roll into the day at a pace your group controls. Captain Javano runs the show on a custom 35′ Donzi center console, built for comfort as much as fun.

Two things I especially like: the charter is private (just your group), and a lot of the messier extras are handled for you, including snorkeling and fishing equipment, plus a cooler with bottled water and ice. One drawback to think about is timing and motion, since the day depends on water conditions and getting to the right spots can mean a longer ride at sea.

If you want a structured, sit-by-the-desk itinerary, this might feel looser. But if you’re game for a captain who can shift gears based on what you choose, it can be a very satisfying way to spend 4 hours in The Bahamas.

Key Highlights to Know Before You Book

• Private group charter: You only share the boat with your party.
• 35′ Donzi center console comfort: Includes a dedicated restroom inside the console.
• Gear included: Snorkeling equipment and fishing equipment are part of the price.
• Pick your mix: Snorkel, swim with turtles or pigs, fish, and cruise to white sand beaches.
• Pig interaction can cost extra: There is an optional $30 per person pig interaction fee.
• Bluetooth and MP3 onboard: You can bring some vibe to the ride.

A 35-Foot Donzi Charter From Paradise Island, Not a Crowded Tour Bus

Your trip starts at Paradise Island Ferry Terminal on Paradise Beach Dr. That matters because it puts you right where a lot of New Providence action begins, instead of forcing a complicated transfer. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so you keep it simple.

You’ll board a custom 35′ Donzi Marine center console. The boat can safely take up to 6 anglers, and the listing is sold as up to 8 people per group. In plain terms, this is best for small groups who want space, but it is still a working fishing style boat, not a floating lounge.

The comfort wins are real. There’s a full bathroom inside the console, which is rare on boats this size. You also get a multimedia system with Bluetooth, plus front bow seating for lounging and front-facing sightseeing. On a short charter, those details can make the difference between a good day and a stressful day.

Choosing Your Water Time: Snorkeling, Turtles, Pigs, Fishing, and Beach Cruising

This charter is built around choice. That’s the whole appeal: you can spend the half-day bouncing between activities, instead of getting stuck in only one thing.

Snorkeling gear and how to use it wisely

Snorkeling equipment is included, which is a real value because buying or renting gear on vacation adds up fast. I’d treat the included equipment as a baseline and still do a quick check once you’re aboard. Get comfortable with the mask, and if you wear contacts, decide ahead of time whether you’ll bring prescription eyewear. This is one of those trips where a small fit issue can steal your enjoyment.

Swimming with turtles or pigs

The experience describes swimming with turtles or pigs as part of the day, and there’s an optional $30 per person pig interaction fee. So you should expect that the pig part may not be automatic for every option. If pigs are a top priority for your group, confirm how the interaction fee works before you get excited on the beach.

Also, keep your expectations realistic. Swimming with marine life is always weather and water-condition dependent. If conditions are rough, your captain may adjust. That flexibility is part of why you’re on a private charter.

Fishing equipment is included, but timing is everything

Fishing equipment is included, which means you can focus on line handling and strategy instead of bringing your own gear. But fishing takes time, and it can be calmer or frustrating depending on the day. Since this is a half-day, I’d plan to treat fishing as one of your main blocks, not a last-minute side quest.

Cruising to white sand beaches

You also get cruising time to pristine white sand beaches. That’s a nice option for groups who don’t all want the same water activity. Even if you only spend part of the day at a beach, it breaks up the water time and gives you a chance to reset.

What the 4-Hour Charter Feels Like On Real New Providence Water

This trip runs about 4 hours. That’s short enough to feel like an adrenaline hit, but long enough for a few different modes: ride out, gear up, do your main activity, then cruise or fish before heading back.

Here’s the practical truth: the day’s quality often comes down to the ride. One negative review described a long boat ride to an island where there was a cost to step on, and it also mentioned the boat sped back and then slowed sharply, leading to injuries for family members. I can’t verify the cause, but the lesson is useful for you.

Before you go, think about motion comfort. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring what works for you. If your group has kids, older adults, or anyone sensitive to bumps, consider asking how the captain handles speed and sea state. On a center console, you’ll feel the water more than on a big passenger ferry, even with a stable ride.

Also, pack like you’re on the clock. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a dry bag if you have one, and swim-safe shoes if you want them. There’s bottled water and ice in a cooler, but there’s nothing in the description that suggests full meal service, so plan your food timing on land.

Comfort Details That Actually Matter: Bathroom, Bluetooth, and Cooler Water

On paper, the boat features might sound like nice extras. In practice, they change how enjoyable the day stays.

• Bathroom in the console: You’re not scrambling for a solution mid-charter. For families and longer days, that’s huge.
• Bluetooth and MP3: The soundtrack helps, especially when everyone is waiting on weather or gearing up.
• Cooler with bottled water and ice: Staying hydrated is not a luxury on a boat. It’s the foundation.

There’s also a dedicated restroom and lounge seating, which helps if your group wants to rotate who’s in the water and who’s resting. With a private charter, that flexibility matters.

Price and Value: Is $850 Worth It for Your Group Size?

The price is $850 per group, up to 8 people. On a pure per-person basis, that can be competitive if you fill the boat. If you book with the full group size, that’s roughly $106 per person for a 4-hour private experience with gear included.

But here’s the part I want you to think about: value depends on whether your group truly uses the private advantage. If you’re traveling with just two people, you’re paying private-charter prices, and the math will feel steeper. If you’re traveling as a family or small friend group, the private element is where the price starts to make sense.

You also get several items included:

• Snorkeling equipment
• Fishing equipment
• Guide
• Cooler with bottled water and ice
• Full bathroom in the console
• MP3 and Bluetooth compatible audio system

That reduces the amount of “surprise spending” you might get on other charters. What is not included can affect your final cost:

• Alcoholic beverages and food are not included unless you request them.
• The $30 per person pig interaction fee is optional.

If your plan includes pigs, your final price per person will move up. For some groups, that’s money well spent. For others, it’s a decision you can make at booking time.

Weather Dependence, Private Flexibility, and the Real Decision Point

This charter requires good weather. That can feel annoying, but it’s also a sign they’re not pushing unsafe conditions. If the experience is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

There’s also a minimum number of travelers requirement. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered another date or experience, or you’ll get a full refund. For planning, this means you should avoid making hard commitments that depend on the charter running.

One more “real life” thing: this is sold as a private tour, so only your group participates. That can make the day feel calmer and less rushed, but it also means the captain is working with your choices and your energy level. Go in with a plan, but stay flexible.

Who This Charter Fits Best (And Who Might Want a Different Option)

This is a strong match for:

• Small families who want freedom on the water and appreciate the bathroom onboard.
• Friend groups who can agree on a mix of snorkeling, pigs or turtles, and fishing.
• People who like a captain-led day, where the schedule is more “choose your activities” than “march in a line.”

It might be less ideal if:

• You hate boat rides or are highly sensitive to motion. This is a center console, and the sea will be part of your experience.
• You want a very strict timeline with guaranteed access to specific beach landings. The day can shift with conditions.
• You’re on a tight budget and won’t fill the group size, since $850 is a group price.

Smart Things to Confirm Before You Hand Over the Money

You can avoid most disappointment by asking a few basic questions before the day. Here’s what I’d get straight:

• How the optional $30 per person pig interaction fee works, and when it would apply.
• Whether food and alcohol can be requested, since they are not included by default.
• How long you expect to spend in each mode, snorkeling versus fishing versus cruising. With only 4 hours, you’ll feel any mismatch quickly.
• What the captain’s approach is to boat speed when water is choppy, especially if anyone in your group is sensitive.

Since the description emphasizes the captain will do their best to make it fun, your questions help you translate “fun” into a day that matches your comfort.

Should You Book Secret Cays Private Charter for Snorkeling, Swimming Pigs, Turtles, and Fishing?

I’d book it if your group wants a private, choice-based half-day on a well-equipped boat, and you can accept that the sea decides some parts of the schedule. The big positives are practical: gear is included, you get a bathroom, and you can mix snorkeling, pigs or turtles, fishing, and beach cruising without feeling locked into one thing.

I’d be cautious if your group is injury- or motion-sensitive, because at least one account flagged that a ride can feel rough if speed changes fast. Also, pig interactions may cost extra, and some beach access may involve extra costs depending on where you land. If pigs or a specific beach moment are the headline for you, confirm details before you go so the day matches the excitement you’re bringing.

If you want an active, captain-led Bahamas day with minimal hassle and real flexibility, this is a solid option to consider. Just make your decisions with eyes open, especially around comfort on the ride and the optional pig fee.

FAQ

How long is the private charter?

The charter lasts about 4 hours.

Where does the charter start and end?

It starts at Paradise Island Ferry Terminal on Paradise Beach Dr and ends back at the same meeting point.

How many people can be on the boat?

The boat can safely take up to 6 anglers, and the group booking is up to 8 people.

What activities are included in the charter?

You can choose activities such as snorkeling, swimming with turtles or pigs, fishing, and cruising to white sand beaches.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are snorkeling equipment, a guide, bottled water and ice in a cooler, fishing equipment, a full bathroom in the console, and MP3 and Bluetooth compatible audio.

Is food or alcohol included?

Food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are not included unless requested.

Is there an extra fee for swimming with pigs?

Yes. There is an optional $30 per person pig interaction fee.

What if the trip is canceled due to weather?

If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.