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.

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

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Chat 'N' Chill Beach Bar & Grill Definitely take a trip out while in Exuma— you won’t be disappointed! Grill · ★ 4.2 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM Thu

Exuma Markets Clean, well stocked with American brands and very expensive. Grocery store · ★ 4.1 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Grand Isle Resort And Residences Great Exuma and Grand Isle are the best the Exumas has to offer. Resort hotel · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Cocoplum Bistro, Exuma This was our favorite place to eat on Exuma during our recent stay. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7:30 AM Thu

Blu on the Water Restaurant & Bar Thank you for the best dining experience on Exuma! Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM Thu

Sandpiper Cafe The best of the best in Exuma! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Smittys Grocery & Convenience Pretty good selection with good staff. Grocery store · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Rusty Anchor Delicious food and a gorgeous setting make for a terrific evening in Exuma! Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu

Prime Island Meats, Deli and Grocery Store Great variety & fast service Grocery store · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Straw Market Large variety of items to choose from and many handcrafted, quality items. Souvenir store · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Shop Rite Great prices and had lots of variety Grocery store · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7:45 AM Thu

Exuma Adventure Tours This is a must do activity in Exuma, my family had a wonderful time! Tour operator · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

Fanny's Restaurant and Bar Full bar with WiFi and usually playing sport on the TVs. Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k

The Snappy Turtle Bar & Grill Will be going back for dinner before we leave exuma. Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Peace & Plenty Beach Club The bartenders were very friendly and I had a wonderful pina colada. Grill · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu

Fifty Shades Excursions Enjoyed the history and beauty of Exuma. Boat tour agency · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Da Sand Bar The good times never ended while out there, drinks and service are amazing. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 1 PM Thu

Great Exuma Island This is a great island to explore! Island · ★ 4.9 · 0k

B'Booky & B'Rabby's Wine & Spirits Fantastic cocktails in a nice building with a great view. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu

Sandpiper Boutique Amazing clothing, jewelry, art, beach essentials, souvenirs and more. Gift shop · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

Sharie's Tropical Spot Great drinks and the owner made us feel right at home! Bar · ★ 5 · 0k

Roy's Bar & Lounge They played great music and made fantastic drinks!! Grill · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Backyard Exuma If ever on the island again, I would stop to eat. Fast Food · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu

VIBE Exuma Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu

Da' Secret The sunset cruise was amazing and the fire ceremony is a must do! Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k

Marilyns Gift Shop Cute clothing and gifts that are reasonably priced! Gift shop · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

Souvenirshop The shopkeeper is very friendly and accommodating. Souvenir store · ★ 4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.