Bacalar: Sail Away with a Hobie Cat Catamaran

Planning a day on Bacalar’s famous Lagoon de los Siete Colores? This particular tour offers a sailing adventure that stands out from the motorized crowd. It’s designed for travelers who want to get past the tourist haze and enjoy a genuine sailing experience—all while soaking up incredible views and sipping on included margaritas.

What makes this tour special? First, it’s 100% sailing — no engines, just wind, and water. Second, the intimate small-group setting (limited to six participants) keeps it personal and friendly. However, if you’re looking for a fast-paced party or a large group experience, this might not be your best fit.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a relaxed, authentic connection with the lagoon, paired with knowledgeable guides and a touch of fun. If you’re ready for a slow-paced jaunt combining scenery, sailing, and good company, keep reading.

Key Points

• Pure sailing experience: No motors, just wind, on a Hobie Getaway Catamaran designed for comfort and safety.
• Multilingual guides: Tours offered in English, Spanish, French, and German—helping you feel at home no matter your language.
• Beautiful stops: Visits include Pirate Canal, Birds Island, Cenote Negro, and Cenote Esmeralda—each offering unique scenery and photo opportunities.
• Inclusive margaritas: Refreshing drinks are included, perfect for relaxing on the water.
• Small groups: Limited to six guests for a personalized, less crowded experience.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve and pay later for added convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

The tour begins at Paradise Living Bacalar, conveniently located in Marina Sunlagoon. From there, you’ll board a Hobie Getaway Catamaran — a sleek, fast, and comfortable vessel designed for racing but perfect for leisure sailing. Its size is intimate, with space for six guests, giving everyone room to enjoy the ride.

Sailing the Lagoon de los Siete Colores is mesmerizing. The boat’s lack of engine means you’ll be propelled solely by the wind, making for a more peaceful, eco-friendly voyage. The guides focus on delivering a genuine sailing experience, with the wind as your engine. You might find that on some days, with little wind, the sailing could be slower, but your guides are experienced and prepared.

Stops Along the Way

The itinerary is thoughtfully planned to showcase Bacalar’s most stunning sites:

• Cenote Negro: Known for its dark waters, this cenote is a refreshing first stop. Expect a quick sail here, with time for photos and a swim if you wish.
• El Canal de Los Piratas: Named after legend, this narrow passage offers a great backdrop for photos. The sail here lasts about 20 minutes.
• Pirate Canal Break & Swim: After sailing through the canal, you get a 30-minute break for swimming, photos, and relaxing on the boat.
• Isla de los Pájaros: A small island teeming with birdlife, perfect for birdwatching and capturing scenic shots.
• Cenote Esmeralda & Cocalitos: Two of the most beautiful cenotes; Cocalitos is famous for its “blue rock” formations and pristine waters. Both spots involve sailing and optional swims.

What You’ll Experience

Throughout the trip, your guides, Victor and Laura, are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. Many reviews mention how they go beyond just navigation—they share stories, explain local history, and ensure everyone feels comfortable. One review notes, “Laura and Victor are adorable people. Thank you for what you made us discover.”

The tour lasts roughly three hours, a perfect length for a relaxed outing without feeling rushed. The pace allows plenty of time at each stop for swimming, photos, and enjoying the scenery. The final sail back to Paradise Living offers a peaceful end to your water adventure.

The Value and Why It Works

For $44 per person, this tour offers an excellent value for a unique, eco-friendly, and personalized experience. The included margaritas are a delightful touch, especially since they’re homemade, adding a casual, fun vibe.

The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd but part of an intimate adventure. This makes it ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to connect with locals and fellow travelers alike.

In terms of gear, safety is prioritized with life jackets provided. The boat’s design emphasizes comfort and stability, making it accessible for most ages, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, people over 287 lbs, or those over 70 years old.

Travelers report that even under challenging sailing conditions—like little wind—the guides manage to keep the experience peaceful and enjoyable. One traveler said, “Even under near impossible sailing conditions with very little wind, they managed to have us gently and peacefully sailing across the lagoon.” That’s a testament to the guides’ skill and dedication.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Starting point at Paradise Living Bacalar is well-located, making it easy to access from local accommodations or the town. The boat departs with plenty of time for safety instructions and introductions.

Cenote Negro is a quick sail of about 15 minutes. Its dark waters are a striking contrast to the bright, colorful lagoon and offer a cool respite for swimming if you prefer.

El Canal de Los Piratas is a 20-minute sail through a narrow, scenic channel. Legend has it pirates once navigated these waters, adding a romantic twist to your photos.

Break at Pirate Canal gives you 30 minutes for swimming, photos, and relaxing on the boat. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and scenic this part is, especially away from the larger, motorized tours.

Isla de los Pájaros involves about 25 minutes of sailing to this small bird sanctuary. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Cenote Esmeralda and Cocalitos are both must-sees. The former is celebrated for its stunning waters, while the latter is famous for its blue rocks and calm swimming conditions. The 30-minute break at Cocalitos allows for more swimming and photo opportunities.

Returning to Marina Sunlagoon wraps up your three-hour journey, leaving you with lasting memories of Bacalar’s beauty from a different perspective.

Authenticity and Guides

Many travelers praise the guides, Victor and Laura, for their warmth and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “Laura and Victor were the perfect hosts, incredibly friendly, full of useful information about Bacalar, its history, the environment and Mexico generally.” Their personal touch elevates the experience from just a boat ride to a memorable cultural connection.

Their language skills—offering tours in four languages—make the experience accessible regardless of your native tongue. This is a big plus for international visitors wanting a smooth, engaging adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing trip is best suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace over speed or party atmospheres. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting authentic interaction, scenic beauty, and a bit of adventure without loud engines or crowded boats. It’s also ideal for smaller groups or couples seeking a more intimate experience.

If you love being outdoors, enjoy nature, and appreciate knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this tour to be both charming and worthwhile. It’s equally suited for those who want to learn about the lagoon’s environment and history, thanks to the guides’ explanations.

In The Sum Up

This Bacalar sailing tour offers a genuine, eco-conscious way to experience one of Mexico’s most stunning lagoons. The focus on pure sailing, combined with beautiful stops, engaging guides, and included margaritas, creates a well-rounded, memorable day.

While it may not satisfy those looking for a fast or boisterous outing, it excels in offering a peaceful, authentic connection with the lagoon’s natural beauty. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it feel like a personal adventure, not just another tourist trap.

For travelers seeking a calm, scenic, and slightly adventurous cruise away from crowded motorboats, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s particularly valuable for those who want to learn about the local environment and culture in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as the children are comfortable on a boat and can swim, they’ll enjoy the peaceful sailing and swimming stops.

Will I get a chance to swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Several stops include time for swimming, especially at Cenote Negro and Cocalitos, making the experience both scenic and refreshing.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the trip.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is not suitable for people over 70 years old, or those over 287 lbs. It’s best suited for most adults and older children.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to six guests, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, making it easier for international travelers to connect and learn.

In the end, this Bacalar Hobie Cat sailing tour offers a unique, relaxed way to explore the lagoon’s natural beauty with a touch of local charm and personalized service. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic, and memorable day on the water.

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