Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Tour with Open Bar and Mexican Lunch

Imagine gliding silently across a seven-colored lagoon with nothing but the gentle sway of a sailboat and the sounds of nature as your soundtrack. That’s exactly what this Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Tour offers—a chance to soak in one of Mexico’s most enchanting sights while enjoying good food, drinks, and the company of friendly guides.

We’ve come across plenty of tours in Bacalar, but this one really stands out for its blend of natural beauty, relaxed vibe, and attentive service. It’s easy to see why travelers consistently give it high marks—an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from 145 reviews. Two things we especially like? The unlimited drinks and Mexican lunch, and the opportunity for free swimming in the crystalline waters.

One consideration to keep in mind is the lack of included snorkeling gear or transportation to the meeting point—so if you’re planning a more independent trip, these are things to organize separately. But overall, this experience seems perfectly suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day out with plenty of comforts. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, it’s a smooth way to get a feel for the lagoon’s magic.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The lagoon’s vivid colors and peaceful waters are the main attraction.
• All-inclusive beverages and lunch: Enjoy a variety of drinks, fresh fruit, guacamole, snacks, and a Mexican meal.
• Visiting iconic spots: Stops include the Pirates Channel, Bird Island, and an abandoned hotel, offering unique photo opportunities.
• Relaxation and swimming: Ample free time to swim, float, or just soak up the sun in clear waters.
• Knowledgeable crew: Guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible.
• Value for money: At $73, the tour includes all the key experiences—food, drinks, guides, and boat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Experience

The Itinerary: What’s in Store?

This five-hour sailing trip is designed to give you a taste of Bacalar’s most captivating sights while maintaining a laid-back pace. You’ll start at the entrance by Balneario Sindicato Semarnat, where the crew welcomes you aboard. The relaxed start sets the tone for what’s to come: scenic views, good company, and plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Your first stop is the Pirates Channel, a narrow passage known for its historical tales and striking landscape. It’s an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the lagoon’s vivid hues. From there, you’ll visit Bird Island, a sanctuary for local avian life, perfect for birdwatchers or those simply wanting to enjoy nature.

Next, the tour moves to an abandoned hotel site, offering a hint of Bacalar’s past along with some cool photo ops. Along the way, you’ll cruise past beautiful cenotes, each with its own distinctive color and crystal-clear waters—great for a quick swim or just floating lazily in the sun.

The Highlights: Food, Drinks, and Views

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy unlimited drinks—including tequila, national beer, juice, soda, and water—so you can toast to the stunning scenery or cool off after a swim. The Mexican lunch is a highlight, featuring traditional flavors with authentic dishes served towards the end of the trip. Add to that a fruit picnic and guacamole, and you’ve got a feast that perfectly complements the relaxing atmosphere of the boat.

The crew is praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with reviews highlighting guides like Omar, Charlie, Amir, and Rommel, who go out of their way to ensure everyone feels comfortable and well-informed.

What to Expect in Terms of Activities

While swimming and relaxing in the crystalline waters is a major part of the day, activities such as snorkeling are not included, so bring your own gear if you wish. The free time for swimming can be extended or limited depending on weather conditions and the group’s preferences.

The boat itself is a peaceful sailboat—without engine noise—so you can enjoy the natural sounds of the lagoon. This tranquility is a big selling point, especially after busy mornings exploring other parts of Mexico.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is priced at $73 per person, which covers most essentials—food, drinks, a bilingual guide, and parking fees. It’s a good value, considering the length and inclusions. Since transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own way there, which is straightforward if you’re staying nearby.

The tour runs in the afternoon, generally starting around 2 pm, perfect for catching the late sun and avoiding the heat of midday. The group size tends to be manageable, creating a friendly, intimate environment praised in many reviews.

What Travelers Say

Guests rave about guides like Amir, Omar, Charlie, and Rommel, emphasizing their friendliness, knowledge, and the delicious food they prepare. One review notes, “Amir is a great guide, fluently in English and makes great food!” Others mention the “beautiful views,” “fantastic service,” and the “relaxed, fun atmosphere” that makes the trip memorable.

Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, with guests mentioning the “delicious lunch” and “bottomless drinks,” which make the experience feel generous and well-organized. The reviews also underscore the importance of safety and comfort, with many feeling well taken care of by the attentive crew.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is best suited for travelers who value authentic, scenic experiences without the hassle of planning multiple stops or activities. It’s ideal for groups who want a relaxed pace, enjoying the lagoon’s beauty while sipping drinks and sharing good food. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, you’ll find this tour offers a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and cultural flavor.

Those interested in sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying nature will appreciate the stops at key points like Bird Island and the Pirates Channel. However, if you’re looking for a snorkeling-centric experience, you’ll need to bring your own gear, as it’s not included.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Tour offers an excellent way to experience the lagoon’s stunning colors and peaceful waters without feeling rushed. The all-inclusive drinks and Mexican lunch add a layer of comfort that elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a memorable outing.

The friendly guides, scenic stops, and relaxing vibe make it a standout choice for those who want to blend natural beauty with good company and authentic flavors. The price of $73 is fair, given the inclusions, and the high review scores suggest most travelers find it a valuable experience.

While it may not suit those seeking intense activities like snorkeling or those needing transportation included, it’s a perfect fit for anyone craving a leisurely day in Bacalar’s most iconic setting.

For travelers who enjoy scenic boat trips, delicious food, and a calm, social atmosphere, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Bacalar’s magic. It’s an experience designed to create relaxed, joyful memories—exactly what a holiday should be.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is not included, so if you want to snorkel, bring your own equipment.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the entrance by Balneario Sindicato Semarnat.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, waterproof camera, comfortable clothes, waterproof bag, and snorkeling gear if desired.

Are pets allowed on the boat?
No, pets are not allowed.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes an open bar (tequila, beer, juice, soda, water), seasonal fruit, guacamole, Mexican snacks, life jackets, a bilingual guide, and parking fees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with kids enjoying the experience, but note that children should be comfortable swimming and with boat safety.

Are there any restrictions on age or mobility?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and since it involves boat sailing, it’s best for those without mobility limitations.

When does the tour usually run?
The tour is usually available in the afternoon, lasting around 5 hours.

This sailing tour in Bacalar offers a perfect slice of Mexico’s natural beauty, great food, and good company—all in a relaxed, scenic setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply seeking a peaceful escape, it’s a memorable way to enjoy the Lagoon of Seven Colors.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby