Sailing Tour through the Lagoon of the 7 Colors

If you’re heading to Bacalar, Mexico, and want to experience its trademark Seven Colors Lagoon, this sailing tour promises a relaxing, scenic adventure. It’s a popular choice—highly rated with a perfect 5.0 from over a thousand reviews—so clearly, many travelers find it worth their while. But what exactly makes this tour stand out? And is it right for you? We’ve researched the details to help you decide.

One thing we love about this experience is how small groups (max 16 people) ensure a personalized touch—from the friendly guides to the relaxed pace. Plus, the stunning views of Bacalar’s turquoise waters and the variety of stops—cenotes, bird island, pirate channel—add to its appeal. The only potential drawback? The tour’s price is quite modest at $31.45 per person, but that includes snacks and drinks, making it an all-around good value, especially considering the many reviews praising the guides’ knowledge.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a laid-back, scenic day on the water, with plenty of swimming and a bit of history thrown in. It suits travelers who value authentic experiences, want to explore at a gentle pace, and love the idea of snorkeling, birdwatching, or just floating in crystal-clear waters. If you’re seeking a high-energy adventure, you might find this a bit mellow, but for most, it hits the sweet spot of fun and relaxation.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Multiple stops: Includes cenotes, bird island, pirate channel—each offering unique sights and stories.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about the lagoon’s ecosystem and history.
• All-inclusive snacks and drinks: Fruit drinks, local beers, and healthy snacks make the trip more enjoyable.
• Flexible durations: Options for 2 or 3 hours, fitting different schedules.
• Excellent reviews: Consistently high ratings and praise for the guides’ friendliness and expertise.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing. Starting from Casa China in Bacalar, you’ll board a boat with a small group, giving you enough space to relax and enjoy the scenery. With a bilingual guide, you’ll learn about the lagoon’s ecosystem, its history, and some fun stories along the way.

The tour’s duration—about 3 hours, with options to tailor your experience—means you get plenty of time in the water without feeling rushed. It’s designed for most travelers, as reviews note that most can participate, and the trip is near public transportation, making it easy to access.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Casa China: Your meeting point is in Col. Costero Sur, a central location in Bacalar, close to public transit options. Here, you’ll receive a safety briefing and get fitted with snorkel gear and life jackets—important for peace of mind and safety.

Sailing through the lagoon: The boat glides smoothly over the famous Seven Colors Lagoon, whose vibrant hues change with the light and water depth. Expect to learn about how the lagoon’s ecosystem functions, from the fauna to the water’s unique coloration.

Stops at key sites: The cenotes are especially popular. You’ll visit three of these freshwater sinkholes, each offering a chance to swim in cool, clear water that’s perfect for a respite from the sun. The bird island is another highlight, where birdwatching is possible and gives insight into the local avian population.

The pirate canal: A historic waterway once used by pirates, this channel offers an engaging story and a scenic moment, perfect for photos and learning about local legends.

Snacks and drinks: Onboard, you’ll enjoy fresh fruit drinks, healthy snacks, and up to three beers for adults—ideal for unwinding after swimming or relaxing in the boat’s comfortable seats.

End of the tour: It wraps up back at your starting point, with flexibility for you to stay longer at certain stops or head on to other activities.

What Travelers Say

The overwhelming majority of reviews are glowing. One reviewer praised the “most perfect day out” with guides Valentino and Valles, who took time to explain the lagoon’s ecology and history. They highlighted how “really nice to swim in, we didn’t want to get out,” which shows how relaxing and enjoyable the water stops can be.

Another reviewer called it the “best experience in Bacalar,” emphasizing the “gorgeous views” and “very informative” guides. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ warmth and professionalism, making the experience both fun and educational.

Some travelers appreciated the small group size, which allowed for more interaction and a relaxed vibe. For example, one said, “you can enjoy the lagoon with no rush,” highlighting the leisurely pace.

A few reviews focus on the quality of the guides’ knowledge, with comments like “they shared info on the birds and area,” making the stops more meaningful.

On the downside, there’s one review mentioning a delay due to weather and boat issues—a reminder that sailing trips are weather-dependent and sometimes subject to logistical hiccups. However, most reviews stress how well the crew handled the experience, making it a minor inconvenience overall.

The Value of the Tour

At just over $31, this tour offers an impressive level of value. It includes snacks, drinks, safety equipment, and the chance to visit multiple sites. Compared to other ways of exploring Bacalar—like renting a boat or taking longer, more expensive tours—this option balances affordability with a comprehensive experience.

Those who love learning about the ecosystem and history, combined with swimming and relaxing, will find this tour especially appealing. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a leisurely day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring towels: Although not included, many reviews recommend having your own for drying off after swimming.
• Sunscreen or protective clothing: Sunscreen isn’t allowed onboard, so consider a rash guard or shirt for sun protection.
• Arrive early: The meeting point is near public transit, but arriving a little early ensures a smooth start.
• Book in advance: Given its popularity, especially with 20+ bookings last month, securing your spot ahead of time is wise.
• Stay flexible: The tour offers options for different lengths, so choose based on your schedule and energy level.
• Be prepared for weather: Weather can influence the experience; most cancellations are handled with a full refund or rescheduling.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This sailing tour through Bacalar’s Lagoon of the 7 Colors is ideal for travelers who are after a calm, scenic, and educational experience. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the stunning scenery, make it a standout choice for those who want more than just a boat ride—they want a chance to swim in pristine waters, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy a laid-back day.

It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group adventures. If you’re on a budget but still crave a memorable experience with beautiful views and friendly guides, this tour hits all the right notes. Keep in mind, if you’re seeking high-adrenaline fun or a longer exploration, you might want to look at other options—this one is about relaxing, learning, and enjoying Bacalar at a comfortable pace.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with options for shorter 2-hour versions depending on your schedule.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, natural fruit drinks, three beers for adults, safety equipment, and a bilingual guide are included.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but towels are not included, so bring your own if you want to dry off or sunbathe.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and families have found it enjoyable—even the kids loved swimming and exploring.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Casa China Bacalar, located in Col. Costero Sur, near public transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Most tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are drinks and snacks alcoholic?
Yes, three beers per adult are included, along with healthy snacks and fruit drinks.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 16 travelers ensures a personal experience and friendly environment.

To sum it up, this Bacalar sailing tour combines beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and affordable pricing into a memorable day on the water. Whether it’s your first time exploring the lagoon or a repeat visit, you’ll likely find this trip a perfect blend of relaxation, education, and authentic natural beauty.