Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo Adventure

Traveling to Costa Maya and considering a day trip to Bacalar? If so, the Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo might catch your eye. This tour promises a blend of historical sights, natural beauty, and fun boat rides—all tailored specifically for cruise passengers eager to squeeze the most out of their limited time ashore.

We haven’t personally taken this tour, but after examining its features, reviews, and itinerary, we can provide a detailed overview to help you decide if it’s right for you. One aspect we love is the chance to enjoy stunning lagoon views and visit unique cenotes—a true highlight for nature lovers. The inclusion of a visit to San Felipe Fort adds a dash of history and panoramic vistas. On the flip side, some travelers have expressed concerns about the timing and organization, especially if your cruise’s schedule is tight. It’s best suited for those who want a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and fun, and who appreciate the value of guided transportation and included snacks.

Key Points

Stunning views of Bacalar Lagoon make this tour visually memorable.
Visit to San Felipe Fort offers scenic overlooks and a touch of local history.
Boat ride through Pirate’s Channel combines storytelling with scenic cruising.
Two cenote stops give swimmers a chance to cool off and explore underwater formations.
Convenient transportation from Costa Maya port simplifies logistics.
The tour is tailored primarily for cruise guests, making it a focused, time-efficient option.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Av. P.º del Puerto 1180 in Mahahual, just a short walk from Costa Maya Port. The bus ride to Bacalar is described as air-conditioned and comfortable, which matters after a humid day ashore. The group size can be up to 80 travelers, which means it might feel a bit crowded during peak times, but it also suggests a well-organized operation with plenty of logistical support.

The timing is carefully coordinated: the tour departs about an hour after your cruise arrives, giving you some buffer for disembarkation and walking to the meeting point. The 15-minute walk from the ship to the meeting place is a small detail but worth considering if you’re traveling with luggage or mobility concerns.

The San Felipe Fort Visit

This historic Spanish fort is the first stop, offering great views of Bacalar Lagoon and providing a quick peek into the area’s colonial past. Entry is not included, costing $5 per person, so it’s an optional extra. From reviews, it seems some travelers appreciate the short but scenic visit, while others might prefer more time exploring nearby.

The Boat Ride Begins

Boarding the boat marks the start of an adventure through Bacalar’s famous “7 Colors” lagoon. The boat features a guided narration, highlighting the area’s pirate history and tales of buried treasure—a fun, atmospheric touch that appeals to families and history buffs alike. The boat ride includes stops at notable spots like Pirate’s Channel, where your guide shares intriguing stories about pirates sailing through these waters centuries ago.

Cenote La Bruja: A Natural Wonder

The first cenote, La Bruja, impresses visitors with its crystal-clear waters and underwater rock formations. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, and many say the water clarity is extraordinary. The tour includes a swim break here, allowing a chance to cool off and enjoy the tranquility of this natural marvel. The underwater scenery with stalactites and clear waters often gets great reviews, with some describing it as breathtaking.

Pirate’s Channel: Stories and Scenic Cruising

Cruising through Pirate’s Channel adds a layer of adventure, as your guide shares stories of pirates and hidden treasures. It’s a narrow waterway that enhances the sense of history and mystery. Expect a relaxed cruise with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views. Some guests mention that listening to pirate tales made the experience more engaging, especially for kids or those interested in local lore.

Cocalitos Cenote: A Second Natural Stop

Next, the boat heads to Cocalitos, known for its white sandy bottom and inviting turquoise waters. It’s a popular swimming spot, and many travelers enjoy the calming surroundings. This stop provides another chance to enjoy the lagoon’s tranquility and natural beauty. It’s worth noting that some guests have found this second cenote a perfect way to unwind after the more active first stop.

Snacks and Refreshments

The tour includes snacks like a cheese or turkey sandwich, granola bar, chips, and a piece of fruit, along with bottled water, sodas, juice, and beer. This simple fare suits most travelers and adds to the value, especially considering the tour’s 5.5-hour duration. If you’re hungry or prefer specific dietary options, bringing extra snacks might be a good idea.

Analyzing the Value and Overall Experience

The $143.10 per person price includes roundtrip transportation, a guided boat ride, visits to two cenotes, and snacks. When you consider the convenience of transport plus the variety of experiences packed into one tour—history, nature, and storytelling—it offers fairly good value.

However, some reviews hint at disorganization or delays, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule. For example, one reviewer noted that they didn’t get to go on the tour because of delays, emphasizing the importance of timing and communication. It’s crucial to confirm your departure times and be aware of the potential for last-minute changes, especially if you’re relying on this tour to maximize your port day.

Benefits for Travelers

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Costa Maya Port
• A mix of cultural, historical, and natural sights
• Opportunity to swim in crystal-clear cenotes
• Engaging storytelling about pirate legends
• Beautiful lagoon views and photo opportunities

Possible Drawbacks

• Limited time at each stop due to the tight schedule
• Potential crowding with up to 80 travelers
• Extra fee for San Felipe Fort entrance
• Some travelers experienced delays or felt the organization could improve

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for cruise passengers who want a balanced, hassle-free way to see Bacalar without spending too much time organizing transportation or activities themselves. It’s ideal if you’re interested in a mix of history, natural wonders, and scenic boat rides, and don’t mind sharing the experience with a group. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic taste of Bacalar’s beauty will find it appealing.

Those seeking more in-depth exploration or a private experience might find this tour a bit rushed or crowded. Also, travelers who value flexibility or want to spend more time exploring beyond the highlights may prefer a different option.

The Sum Up

The Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo offers a practical and enjoyable way for cruise guests to experience some of the most scenic and interesting parts of Bacalar. With its combination of stunning lagoon vistas, historical sights, and natural cenotes, it captures the spirit of this beautiful area without the hassle of independent planning.

While the tour’s value is fair considering transportation, guided narration, and snorkeling opportunities, it’s important to be prepared for the group size and potential scheduling issues. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure that highlights Bacalar’s natural splendor and a pinch of history, this tour fits the bill.

Ultimately, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a taste of Bacalar’s best—especially those with limited time who prefer organized, guided outings that include snacks and stories. For a full, rich day of discovery, just be sure to clarify timings and expectations beforehand to make the most of your port day.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya Port is included, and it’s in an air-conditioned vehicle, making travel comfortable and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, which includes travel, stops, and some free time for swimming.

Do I need to pay extra to visit San Felipe Fort?
Yes, the entry fee to San Felipe Fort is $5 per person, which is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring for the boat ride and cenote swims?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a waterproof camera or phone. Extra snacks or water are optional, though the tour already provides basic refreshments.

Can I expect large crowds?
The tour can have up to 80 travelers, which may mean a busier atmosphere, especially during peak seasons. Early booking can help secure a spot and potentially avoid larger groups.

What happens if my cruise ship doesn’t dock?
The tour guarantees a full refund if the ship doesn’t call in Costa Maya at all, making it a low-risk option for cruise visitors.