Exuma Boat Tours
Explore the stunning Exuma Cays aboard powerboats and yachts visiting pristine beaches, hidden coves, and famous attractions
Exuma boat tours provide the ultimate way to explore the stunning 365 cays of this Bahamian paradise. Powerboat adventures whisk you between turquoise waters visiting famous swimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto, nurse sharks, iguanas, pristine beaches, and hidden sandbars. These comprehensive tours combine multiple top attractions in single adventures, maximizing your Exuma experience. Whether aboard sleek powerboats, luxury yachts, or catamaran charters, boat tours offer access to remote locations unreachable by land. Most tours include snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks, and expert guides sharing local knowledge. From action-packed powerboat rides to leisurely yacht cruises, from shared adventures to exclusive private charters, Exuma boat tours deliver unforgettable experiences exploring one of the world's most beautiful island chains with crystal-clear water, vibrant marine life, and picture-perfect beaches.
Why Choose Boat Tours in Exuma?
Multiple Attractions
Visit 5-8 locations in one day - pigs, sharks, iguanas, beaches, grottos, and more.
Thrilling Powerboat Rides
Fast powerboats deliver exciting rides across stunning turquoise Exuma waters.
All-Inclusive Packages
Most tours include equipment, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and expert guides.
Access Remote Locations
Reach pristine beaches, hidden coves, and attractions accessible only by boat.
Types of Boat Tours in Exuma
Powerboat Adventures
Fast-paced tours visiting 6-8 locations including pigs, sharks, snorkeling, and beaches.
Luxury Yacht Charters
Premium boat tours with gourmet meals, premium drinks, and VIP service.
Private Boat Charters
Exclusive boat rental for your group with completely customized itinerary.
Captain Your Own Boat
Rent a boat and explore independently with provided routes and equipment.
What to Expect on Your Exuma Boat Tour
Tour Duration
Full-day tours: 6-8 hours. Departure typically 9-10am, return 4-5pm. Comprehensive island exploration.
Popular Stops
Swimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto, Compass Cay sharks, Allen Cay iguanas, sandbars, pristine beaches.
Boat Types
Powerboats (20-30 feet), luxury yachts (40-60 feet), or catamarans. Fast, comfortable, safe.
Included Amenities
Lunch, drinks (water, soda, often beer/rum punch), snorkel equipment, flotation devices.
Group Sizes
Shared tours: 12-20 people. Private charters: 2-12 people. Never overcrowded.
Activities
Swimming, snorkeling, pig feeding, shark encounters, iguana interaction, beach exploring, photography.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Original Exuma Powerboat Adventures is most popular operator
Book private charter if traveling with 4+ people - often similar per-person cost
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and towel
Waterproof phone case or camera essential for photos
Tours from Great Exuma more affordable than flying from Nassau
Sit in front of boat for best views and most spray
Morning tours better - calmer seas and more active animals
Lunch typically Bahamian cuisine - conch, fish, sides
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What do Exuma boat tours include?
A: Typical full-day boat tours include: transportation, professional captain/guide, visits to 6-8 attractions (pigs, sharks, iguanas, Thunderball Grotto, beaches, sandbars), snorkel equipment, lunch, drinks (water, soda, often alcohol), safety equipment, and commentary. Hotel pickup may cost extra.
Q:How much do Exuma boat tours cost?
A: Shared powerboat tours: $329-479 per person (full day). Luxury fly-in tours: $750+ with flight from Nassau. Private charters: $1500-8500 for entire boat (6-12 people). Self-drive boat rentals: $500-1500 per day. Price varies with inclusions and departure point.
Q:Where do boat tours depart from?
A: Most depart from Great Exuma (George Town or nearby marinas). Some operate from Nassau (longer travel time). A few offer pick-up from Staniel Cay. Fly-in tours include flights from Nassau. Check exact departure location when booking.
Q:Are boat tours suitable for children?
A: Yes! Most tours family-friendly with minimum age 3-5 years. Calm Exuma waters generally smooth. Life jackets provided in all sizes. Shallow-water activities safe for kids. Private charters offer most flexibility for families. Confirm age requirements when booking.
Q:What is Thunderball Grotto?
A: Underwater cave system featured in two James Bond films (Thunderball, Never Say Never Again). Snorkel through crystal-clear water into stunning grotto with sunbeams. One of Exuma's most famous attractions. Tide-dependent - guides know best entry times.
Q:Can I swim with sharks?
A: Yes! Most boat tours visit Compass Cay where friendly nurse sharks swim in shallow marina. Safe, supervised encounters - these docile sharks are accustomed to humans. You can swim alongside and pet them (with guide instruction). Not aggressive species.
Q:When is the best time for boat tours?
A: Year-round excellent! December-April offers calmest seas and best weather. Summer months still beautiful but hotter and occasional rain. Book morning tours for best conditions. Seas typically calmest before noon. Hurricane season June-November but tours still operate.
Q:Do I need to know how to swim?
A: Helpful but not required! Life jackets provided. Many activities in shallow water (waist-deep). Snorkeling optional at most stops. However, swimming enhances the experience - pig swimming and grotto snorkeling highlights of tours. Inform guides of comfort level.
Related Travel Guides for Exuma
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Exuma Adventure Tours
Experience thrilling ATV rides, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and action-packed island exploration
Exuma Airport Transfers
When arriving at Georgetown, Exuma (GGT), you can easily find and compare various airport transfer options. Travelers can book shared or private transfers to reach their final destinations across Exuma. Compare prices and amenities from different providers to select the best option for your trip.
Exuma Beach Tours
Explore pristine white-sand beaches, hidden coves, and stunning sandbars across the beautiful Exuma Cays
Exuma Island Hopping
Explore multiple pristine cays in one adventure visiting pigs, sharks, iguanas, beaches, and hidden gems
Exuma Snorkeling Tours
Discover pristine coral reefs, Thunderball Grotto, and vibrant marine life in crystal-clear Bahamian waters
Exuma Swimming Pigs Tours
Experience the world-famous swimming pigs of Big Major Cay with boat tours to this unique Bahamian attraction
Getting Around Exuma
Save up to 70% on car rentals in Exuma when you compare and book in advance.