Sailing Tour around the Bacalar Lagoon

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful yet visually spectacular way to experience Bacalar’s famous lagoon, this sailing tour offers a unique perspective. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, our review synthesizes traveler feedback, tour descriptions, and practical insights to help you decide if it fits your style.

We’re particularly impressed by how this tour lets you see Bacalar’s stunning 7-color waters from a sailboat—an experience that elevates the usual sightseeing. The crew’s knowledge and friendliness make the journey even more enjoyable.

One thing to consider is the group size, kept small with a maximum of eight travelers, which is great for personalized service but might feel a bit tight if you’re expecting a large party. This tour suits those looking for a relaxed, scenic outing that combines nature, a bit of history, and the chance to swim and take photos.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience on a well-maintained boat with friendly crew
• Multiple scenic stops including cenotes, islands, and historic sites
• Comfortable group size of up to 8 travelers for personalized attention
• All-inclusive value with water, beers, and snacks included
• Flexible language options with guides speaking English, Spanish, or French
• Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts seeking authentic scenery

Introduction: A Unique Way to Experience Bacalar

If you’re considering a sailing adventure in Bacalar, you’ll find this tour offers a refreshing take on exploring the lagoon. Instead of just viewing from the shore, you get to float on the water, glide past crystal-clear cenotes, and discover hidden corners of this impressive freshwater lagoon.

Two aspects that genuinely stand out are the stunning water hues and the knowledgeable, friendly crew. These elements make the trip memorable, especially for those who appreciate both natural beauty and engaging guides.

However, it’s worth noting that the 3-hour duration means you’ll want to savor each stop without feeling rushed. Also, the small group size enhances intimacy but may limit social interaction if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, a family-friendly outing, or an authentic experience with local guides, this tour offers good value with a lot packed into a short time.

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour kicks off at the Sun Lagoon Marina dock, a convenient starting point along the coast. From there, the crew takes you on a journey that covers some of the most fascinating spots on the lagoon, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and learning.

Pirate Channel and Cenotes

The voyage begins in the Pirates Channel, where you can swim and hear stories about the area’s maritime past. This stop is especially appealing for families or travelers who enjoy combining relaxation with a bit of local lore.

Next are visits to Cenotes — those famed sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water. The tour visits Negro, Esmeralda, and Cocalitos cenotes, which are among the deepest on the Yucatan Peninsula. These spots give travelers a chance to dive in and experience the cool, refreshing water. The cenotes’ clarity and depth are often praised, making them perfect for swimming and photography.

Bird Watching and Island Visits

The Bird Island is a highlight for nature lovers. From the boat, you’ll get a good chance at bird watching, spotting herons, kingfishers, and other local species. The proximity to the abandoned hotel also adds an intriguing touch — a relic of tourism past that invites curiosity and photos.

Scenic Views and Relaxation

Throughout the tour, your boat glides past colorful lagoon waters that change hue with the sunlight, providing perfect photo opportunities. The crew’s commentary (available in English, Spanish, or French) adds context, turning the experience more into a learning adventure rather than just a boat ride.

Onboard Refreshments

A thoughtful touch is the all-inclusive offering: bottled water, 3 beers per person, and a seasonal fruit platter. Reviewers have appreciated this, noting that it adds to the relaxed, enjoyable vibe without the need to bring your own snacks or drinks.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the stunning views and the knowledgeable captain. Shirley J. described the experience as a “very good afternoon” where even overcast skies couldn’t diminish the beauty of the sunset, thanks to the boat’s vantage point. Dariusz R. called it a “perfect 3 hours” filled with fun, views, and music, highlighting the friendly atmosphere created by Capt. Benito.

Many also mention the personalized attention. With a maximum of eight travelers, the crew can cater to individual interests and provide meaningful commentary, making each stop more engaging.

Some travelers, such as Shirley, specifically appreciated the handling of the sailboat and the knowledge of the crew, which added a layer of professionalism and safety to the trip.

Value for Money: What’s Included and How It Adds Up

At $50.14 per person, the tour offers a solid value for such an immersive experience. For that price, you get roughly three hours of sailing, multiple scenic stops, beverages, and snacks. This all-inclusive approach means you won’t need to worry about extra costs during the trip, making it easier to relax and enjoy.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized service. Plus, the availability of translators in English, Spanish, and French makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

The convenient meeting point and the fact that the tour ends at the same location add to the ease of planning your day in Bacalar. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours also offers peace of mind.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book at least 28 days in advance if possible, as the tour is popular.
• Arrive early at the Costera meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant water colors and scenic stops.
• If you love bird watching or swimming, this tour offers plenty of opportunities.
• Dress comfortably, and consider bringing a hat or sunscreen for sun protection.
• The tour is accessible for most travelers, including those with service animals.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to see Bacalar’s famous lagoon from a different angle. It’s suitable for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a relaxed pace and informative guides.

If you’re after a quick, scenic, and authentic experience with a touch of adventure and local charm, this trip checks all those boxes. However, if you’re seeking a more extensive or action-packed excursion, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In a nutshell, this sailing tour of Bacalar Lagoon offers a beautifully balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed fun. The stunning water hues, combined with the friendly crew and all-inclusive approach, make it a great choice for those wanting to enjoy Bacalar without rushing or overly structured itineraries.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and small-group intimacy. If you’re looking for a peaceful afternoon on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, photograph, and learn, this tour is a smart pick.

The value is clear, given the price, the inclusions, and the memorable scenery. Just remember to book in advance and bring your camera — you won’t want to miss the vibrant colors and tranquil vibe of Bacalar from this sailing perspective.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, offering enough time to visit multiple stops and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Costera, 77933 Bacalar, Q.R., Mexico, and finishes back at the same meeting point, making planning your day easier.

What is included in the price?
The price covers bottled water, 3 beers per person, and a seasonal fruit platter. All stops and the boat ride are part of the package.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, guides can speak English, Spanish, and French, so language barriers should be minimal.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the relaxed, scenic nature makes it suitable for most ages, especially those comfortable in small boats.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, and perhaps a towel if you wish to swim at cenotes or other stops.

In summary, this Bacalar sailing tour offers an inviting combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and an intimate atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a genuine, relaxed water adventure in one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons.