Great Exuma Island

Great Exuma Island

Bahamas

Swim with friendly nurse sharks and stingrays in the crystalline waters of Thunderball Grotto, a natural wonder that inspired James Bond films.

Currency Bahamian Dollar (BSD)
Language English
Time Zone EST (UTC-5)
Best Time to Visit Nov–Dec
Typical Duration 7-8 nights
Price Range $2,080-$3,920 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive access to some of the Bahamas' most secluded and beautiful island destinations.

Cruises that visit Great Exuma Island

Build Your Day in Great Exuma Island

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM
Usually about 9 hours ashore
Getting around:
Chat 'N' Chill Beach Bar & Grill Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Doesn't accept reservations Bar & grill · ★ 4.2 · 1k Open · Closes 5 PM
Exuma Markets Clean, well stocked with American brands and very expensive. Grocery store · ★ 4.1 · 1k Open · Closes 6 PM
Splash Beach Bar Good food, fast service (for Bahamas) and reasonable price. Bar & grill · ★ 3.8 · 1k Open · Closes 10 PM
Grand Isle Resort And Residences Chic villa resort with a spa & golf Resort hotel · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Cocoplum Bistro, Exuma The food was amazing..the freshest I've had in Exuma. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Blu on the Water Restaurant & Bar Reservations required·Happy hour food·Great cocktails Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM Thu
Sandpiper Cafe Fresh seafood and local delights that'll make your taste buds dance. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Tim's on the Bay Best meal, cleanest restaurant, best service on Exuma. Restaurant · ★ 4.1 · 0k Open · Closes 8 PM
Rusty Anchor Delicious food and a gorgeous setting make for a terrific evening in Exuma! Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Eddie's Edgewater Great, affordable Bahamian food. Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Straw Market Large variety of items to choose from and many handcrafted, quality items. Souvenir store · ★ 4.4 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM
Coconut Club Enjoyable music, great ocean toys, tasty drinks, and good snacks. Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k Open · Closes 7 PM
Jolly Hall Great place to motor in and anchor for a swim, walk and a picnic! Beach · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Exuma Adventure Tours Highly recommended for anyone seeking adventure and exploration in Exuma. Tour operator · ★ 5 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM
Blue Conch Restaurant and Bar Some of the best food and service we received on the entire island. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Island Boy Cafe & Bar Great service and cold drinks! Bar & grill · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open · Closes 7 PM
The Snappy Turtle Bar & Grill We docked our boats and had the friendliest service and best food! Restaurant · ★ 4.1 · 0k Open · Closes 8 PM
Salt Resto Bar Outdoor seating·Great cocktails Restaurant · ★ 3.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM
Eva's Place Great Bahamian breakfasts at very reasonable prices. Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 8 PM
Peace & Plenty Beach Club Great location for drinks, pictures, and swimming. Bar & grill · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open · Closes 4 PM
Rionorganics Hoopers Bay was a great spot to swim with turtles. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 8 PM
Da Sand Bar Great set up, bar, swing, shade, chairs, kayaks, tube, on a gorgeous beach. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM
Fifty Shades Excursions Both groups had so much fun and the tour easily catered to both. Boat tour agency · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open 24 hours
Starfish Beach The beach is beautiful, not crowded at all, and very clean. Beach · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Great Exuma Island Island with festivals, regattas & more Island · ★ 4.9 · 0k
B'Booky & B'Rabby's Wine & Spirits A great location, amazing drinks and service! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k Opens soon · 2 PM
Tori's Cafe Exuma we all so do private chef services Excellent jerk chicken, rice, pasta salad, Cole slaw, oxtail. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Permanently closed
Sandpiper Boutique Lots of clothing and jewelry items, local books, and locally made items. Gift shop · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM
Roy's Bar & Lounge The staff is so welcoming, the drinks are great, the food was awesome. Bar & grill · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 PM
Sharie's Tropical Spot Great drinks and the owner made us feel right at home! Bar · ★ 5 · 0k
Moss Town Beach EXCELLENT beach in Exuma to visit with AMAZING sea colours. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Nex Level Lounge Great food, great atmosphere, very clean, reasonably priced. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 12 AM
Backyard Exuma Excellent food at a very reasonable price on a beautiful beach! Fast food restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Open · Closes 6 PM
Brew & Chew Cafe Exuma Great food, drinks, sweet treats and amazing customer service. Pizza delivery · ★ 5 · 0k
VIBE Exuma Outdoor seating·Great cocktails·Vegan options Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM Fri
Stocking Island Beach Sandy beach with snorkeling & diving Beach · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Da' Secret Lots of dancing and drinks and memories that will last a lifetime 😁 Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k
La Parisienne Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Haute French · ★ 4.5 · 0k Permanently closed
Blu Bougainvillea Lounge & Café Newer establishment, with a great atmosphere, service, and food. Lounge bar · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Great Exuma Island

About Great Exuma Island

Great Exuma Island serves as a scenic port of call in the Caribbean, primarily accessed through Silversea's luxury cruise itineraries. While this intimate port welcomes a more exclusive cruise experience with just one cruise line operating regular service, it remains a cherished destination for discerning travelers seeking authentic Bahamian charm. Most cruises calling here are seven-night voyages that combine Great Exuma with other Caribbean highlights like Grand Turk Island, Key West, and Puerto Plata, making it part of a well-rounded island-hopping adventure.

Passengers disembarking in Great Exuma can look forward to pristine beaches and the island's famous swimming pigs, along with opportunities to explore local culture and natural attractions. The peak season runs through November and December, when the weather is ideal and the island buzzes with cruise visitors eager to experience one of the Bahamas' most picturesque destinations. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Great Exuma delivers a memorable Caribbean experience.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Swim with Swimming Pigs

Experience the world-famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach, located just off Great Exuma's coast. These friendly, sociable pigs wade and swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating an unforgettable photo opportunity. Local boat operators offer convenient excursions from the cruise port, making this iconic Bahamian experience easily accessible during your port day.

2

Thunderball Grotto's Hidden Wonders

Explore the stunning Thunderball Grotto, a natural limestone cave featured in James Bond films, where freshwater springs meet saltwater in an ethereal blue lagoon. Snorkel through the grotto's chambers and discover vibrant marine life in this geological marvel. The grotto's dramatic rock formations and pristine waters make it a must-see natural wonder of Great Exuma.

3

Fresh Conch Salad at the Dock

Savor authentic Bahamian conch salad, a local specialty prepared fresh daily at waterfront restaurants near the cruise port. This signature dish features diced conch marinated in lime juice, onions, peppers, and coconut milk, offering an authentic taste of Caribbean cuisine. The casual dock-side dining experience captures the relaxed island culture of Great Exuma.

4

Straw Market Crafts and Souvenirs

Browse the vibrant Straw Market near the cruise port for handwoven baskets, hats, and colorful local crafts created by Bahamian artisans. Haggling is part of the experience, and you'll find unique souvenirs unavailable elsewhere. The market buzzes with local energy and offers authentic gifts that support the island's traditional craftspeople.

5

Emerald Pool's Freshwater Oasis

Visit the enchanting Emerald Pool, a natural freshwater spring surrounded by lush vegetation and limestone cliffs in the heart of Great Exuma. This serene cenote-like pool offers a refreshing swimming experience distinct from the ocean, with emerald-colored waters that seem almost otherworldly. The short trek through native flora makes this a peaceful escape from the cruise port.

Cruise Lines at Great Exuma Island

Cruises Departing From Great Exuma Island

Cruises Visiting Great Exuma Island

Ship Schedule at Great Exuma Island

Great Exuma Island Location

Other Cruise Ports in Bahamas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Great Exuma Island known for?

Pig Beach, 365 cays, clear waters, and national park.

Is Great Exuma Island an official port?

Yes, it is listed as an official port.

Where is Great Exuma Island located?

Bahamas, at approximately latitude 23.5333 and longitude -75.8333.

What wildlife can visitors expect?

Pigs at Pig Beach, birds, mangroves, and diverse marine life.