Island Hopping in Exuma: A Day with Iguanas, Sharks, and Pigs
When the opportunity to explore a private island in the Exuma chain presented itself, I couldn’t resist. With promises of iguanas, sharks, and pigs, this adventure was set to be a unique blend of wildlife encounters and island relaxation.
Setting Sail to Exuma
The sun was just beginning to rise as my partner and I boarded the powerboat, leaving the bustling streets of Nassau behind. The promise of a private island adventure in the Exuma chain was too tempting to resist. As a former professional surfer, the call of the ocean is something I can never ignore, and this trip promised a unique blend of wildlife encounters and island relaxation.
The hour-long ride to Exuma was a thrill in itself. The high-speed cruise over the azure waters was a reminder of why I chose to live in the Caribbean. The salty breeze and the rhythmic hum of the boat were the perfect prelude to the day’s adventures. Our first stop was Allen Cay, home to the endangered iguanas. Although they seemed a bit uninterested in our offerings, possibly due to earlier visitors, it was still a fascinating experience to see these creatures up close.
Island Life on Ship Channel Cay
A short eight-minute ride brought us to Ship Channel Cay, our private island for the day. The island was a paradise of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you wanted to dive into every activity or simply relax with a drink in hand, the island catered to all desires. As someone who spends a lot of time in the water, I was eager to see what this island had to offer.
The pigs were the first to greet us, trotting along the beach with a carefree attitude that matched my own. Feeding them was a hilarious experience, especially when they decided to step on my feet with their hefty weight. Next, we moved on to the stingrays, gliding gracefully through the water as we fed them. The highlight, however, was the sharks. Watching them circle as they were lured in with fish carcasses was both thrilling and humbling.
A Day to Remember
While others opted for the snorkeling tour, my partner and I chose to explore the island, capturing its beauty through our camera lens. The open bar was a delightful bonus, offering a refreshing escape from the sun. We even met a lovely couple from Nassau, who shared stories of their own island adventures.
Lunch was a delicious affair, with fresh grouper that had been caught earlier in the day. The staff was exceptional, ensuring that every guest felt welcome and entertained. As the day came to a close, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique adventure. The Exuma Private Island trip was a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, and I knew it wouldn’t be long before I’d be back for more.
For those of you who crave a mix of wildlife encounters and island relaxation, the Exuma Adventure is a must-try. Whether you’re a seasoned island-hopper or a first-time visitor, this experience promises memories that will last a lifetime.