BACALAR Lagoon BOAT TOUR from Costa Maya with Lunch

If you’re cruising through Costa Maya and looking for a way to experience something truly special, the Bacalar Lagoon boat tour might just be what you need. This well-reviewed excursion offers a chance to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural sights — the Lake Bacalar, famous for its seven shades of blue water — all without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating alone.

What we love about this tour is its intimate small-group setting, which promises a more relaxed and personalized experience. Plus, the boat cruise itself offers plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery, topped off with a tasty seafood lunch. On the flip side, the journey to Bacalar does take about 1.5 hours each way, which might be a long ride for some, but most find the scenery along the way a pleasant distraction. This tour suits travelers who want a mix of natural beauty, comfort, and local flavor, especially those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures more personalized attention and a relaxed pace
• Beautiful lagoon views of Bacalar’s famous seven shades of blue make for incredible photos
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles from Costa Maya
• Delicious lunch options highlight local seafood tacos, with alternatives available
• Swim and relax in the clear waters, with a friendly crew ensuring your comfort
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and friendly local restaurant visits

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Boat Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $139 per person, this tour offers more than just a boat ride. The package includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a major plus considering the 1.5-hour drive each way. Most travelers appreciate that the transfer is comfortable, especially after a long day on a cruise ship, and the fact that the vehicle is air-conditioned helps keep the trip pleasant even in the warm Caribbean sun.

The tour’s highlight is the private boat cruise on Bacalar Lagoon. This isn’t a large, crowded tour boat — think more along the lines of a cozy, attentive vessel that lets you take in the scenery at your own pace. The boat crew is described as friendly and attentive, which makes a difference when you’re relaxing in the water or simply enjoying the view.

The lunch is also a notable part of the experience. Visitors rave about the seafood tacos served at a local restaurant, often citing the freshness and authenticity of the flavors. With non-seafood options available, the tour is accommodating for different tastes, adding to its value.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

First stop: Lake Bacalar. Once you’re picked up outside the cruise port, the scenic drive to Bacalar takes around an hour and a half. During this time, some guides engage travelers with local insights, making the ride educational as well as comfortable. When you arrive at the marina, your small group boards a private boat — the perfect setting for a relaxing cruise.

On the water: you’ll cruise across the lagoon, soaking up the diverse shades of blue that give Bacalar its nickname as the “7-color lagoon.” The water is crystal clear, inviting you to splash around or simply float and take in the scenery. The boat captain prepares a fresh fruit snack onboard, which many reviews describe as delicious and healthy, perfect for re-energizing during your swim.

Duration: About 2 hours on the lagoon. This allows ample time for swimming, taking photos, and enjoying the peaceful environment. You’ll be pampered by attentive crew members, who ensure your safety and comfort, creating a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. As one reviewer puts it, “The scenery was beautiful and our guide, David, did a fantastic job!”

Authenticity and Personal Touches

One of the top-rated aspects of this tour is the guides and the crew. Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly they are, often going above and beyond to make the experience memorable. For instance, “Joanne, our trip guide, was very fun and amazing,” is a common praise. This personal attention contributes significantly to the overall value, especially compared to larger, more impersonal excursions.

The Lunch Experience

After the boat cruise, your group visits a local restaurant, El Taco Loco Bacalar, known for its authentic Mexican seafood tacos. Reviewers frequently mention how delicious and flavorful the food is, with some describing it as a highlight of the day. For those who don’t eat seafood, alternative options are available, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Reviewing the Length and Timing

The total tour duration is around 6 hours, which includes the transportation, boat cruise, and lunch. While some travelers find the drive to Bacalar a bit long — about 1.5 hours each way — most agree that the scenery and the experience at the lagoon make it worthwhile. One reviewer mentioned that “The trip is a bit long to get to the lagoon, but after arrival, everything was great.”

However, keep in mind that punctuality is important. A few reviews point out issues with timing, especially regarding the return to the port. One traveler even shared a less favorable experience due to delays that risked missing their cruise, emphasizing that planning around the schedule is key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise travelers wanting to see a unique natural wonder, away from crowded tour buses. It’s well-suited for those who value small-group intimacy, authentic local food, and beautiful scenery. Families, couples, and anyone eager to swim in crystal waters and enjoy some downtime will find it especially appealing.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 40 days beforehand, so plan early to secure your spot.
• Arrive on time: The meeting point is outside the cruise port, and punctuality helps avoid missing the departure.
• Bring essentials: Swimwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera or phone for photos. Towels are usually provided.
• Consider your stamina: The drive is about 1.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a bit of travel time.
• Dietary preferences: Notify the tour provider if you prefer non-seafood options; they accommodate dietary needs.
• Weather watch: The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This Bacalar Lagoon boat tour offers a beautiful blend of natural scenery, friendly service, and local flavor. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want to escape the crowds, enjoy a relaxing day on the water, and taste authentic Mexican cuisine. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate and personalized experience, making it worth the price for many travelers.

If you’re after stunning views and genuine local culture, and don’t mind a bit of travel to reach Bacalar, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially suited for those who value authenticity and comfort over fast-paced sightseeing.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Costa Maya is included, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

How long is the drive to Bacalar Lagoon?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, which is a bit of a ride but most travelers find it worthwhile for what’s waiting at the lagoon.

What is the duration of the boat cruise?
The actual boat cruise lasts about 2 hours, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a lunch of seafood tacos at a local restaurant, and onboard snacks like fresh fruit are provided. Beer, tequila, soda, and bottled water are available during the cruise.

Can I swim in the lagoon?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight swimming as a favorite part, with the water being clear and inviting.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The tour offers non-seafood options, so let the provider know in advance if you have dietary preferences.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 99 travelers, but most experiences involve fewer participants for a more relaxed vibe.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 40 days ahead, especially in peak seasons, to guarantee availability.

This experience combines natural beauty, local flavor, and personal service into a day you’ll remember. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or a photo-worthy adventure, Bacalar Lagoon from Costa Maya delivers — with a touch of comfort and authenticity.