BACALAR Seven Color Lagoon Boat Excursion from Costa Maya

If you’re heading to Costa Maya and craving a close-up look at one of Mexico’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Bacalar Seven Colors Lagoon boat excursion is worth considering. This tour promises a relaxing cruise on a small-group boat, delicious Mexican food, and plenty of opportunities to soak in the vivid blues of Bacalar’s famed lagoon.

What we love about this experience is its combination of comfort and authenticity — the included lunch is hearty and local, while the small group setup makes for a more personal and less rushed adventure. Plus, the guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the entire outing feel well-organized and genuine.

However, a potential drawback is the long drive involved; the trip to Bacalar itself takes about an hour each way, which cuts into the precious time on the water. If you’re not a fan of lengthy commutes or prefer shorter day trips, this might be a consideration. This tour suits travelers who love scenic water views, are curious about local culture, and don’t mind a bit of travel time for a truly special sight.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Authentic Mexican lunch and friendly guides enhance the trip.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect to see the famous seven shades of blue in Bacalar lagoon.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Snacks, drinks, and lunch are included, making it hassle-free.
• Small Group: A more intimate tour environment for better interaction.
• Longer Travel Time: About 1.5 hours in each direction, so be prepared for a bit of a journey.
• Highly Rated Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Joanna and Jhoana receive glowing reviews.

A Well-Organized Itinerary with Highlights and Hiccups

The tour kicks off outside the Costa Maya cruise port, where you’ll meet your guide and board an air-conditioned vehicle heading to Bacalar’s marina. The journey itself, about an hour each way, is a good time to relax and get some tips from your guide about what’s ahead. This part of the experience is often overlooked but is crucial in setting expectations and building anticipation.

Once at the marina, the real magic begins. You’ll hop aboard a pontoon boat, which serves as your floating vantage point for the next two hours. As you cruise across the lagoon, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the water’s multiple shades of blue—hence the name “Seven Colors”—shimmering and shifting as the sunlight plays on the surface. This isn’t just a scenic ride; it’s a chance to pause and take in nature’s artistry.

The boat crew is noted for their attentiveness, often offering cold bottled water, delicious fruit snacks, and the chance to splash into the clear waters for a refreshing swim. Renea_L, one of the highest-rated reviewers, commented, “The lake was beautiful, and the boat ride was nice. Our tour guide Joanna was great.” This highlights how guides often elevate the experience with their friendliness and local knowledge.

A key feature of the tour is the included lunch at Papitos Bacalar, a restaurant with a casual, authentic vibe. Expect to enjoy tacos—pork, beef, or shrimp—and guacamole, with vegetarian and vegan options available if requested. Food quality gets mixed reviews, but many travelers like Damaris_S agree that the tacos are “really good,” especially the pork ones. The meal offers a nice break after the boat ride and is part of what makes this a good value overall.

The Downside: Long Transfer Time and Limited Water Options

While the lagoon itself is stunning, some reviewers have voiced concerns about the long drive—up to 1.5 hours each way. Stephen_M pointed out that the photos showing the lagoon’s colors don’t quite match the reality after a lengthy trip, and that you only get about an hour of actual water time. This can be a hard sell for those hoping for more water-based activities or shorter transit.

Another common critique revolves around the limited drink options — during the boat cruise, alcohol and soda are available, but some wish there was more variety, especially water. Heather_H mentioned the frustration of only having soda and alcohol, which might not suit everyone, especially in a hot climate.

On top of that, some reviewers had issues with communication and logistical hiccups. Jamie_R recounted a canceled trip due to low demand, with no prior notice, which was disappointing. This highlights the importance of confirming your booking and being flexible with potential changes.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

A standout element of this tour, according to multiple reviews, is the personalized guidance. Guides like Joanna, Paco, and Jhoana are praised for their attentive, friendly approach and their knowledge of the area’s natural beauty and local culture. Elizabeth_A shared that communication was excellent and praised Ivan for his “awesome” attitude, taking time to answer questions and ensure everyone felt cared for.

The small-group size (maximum 99 travelers, often fewer) makes the tour more intimate. This setup allows guides to give personalized attention, and travelers often mention feeling like they’re experiencing Bacalar with friends rather than just another tourist.

What You’ll Experience: From the Boat to the Restaurant

The boat ride is the core of this adventure. You’ll cruise through the lagoon, with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and just soak in the scenery. The captain often prepares a healthy fruit snack to enjoy aboard, which many find refreshing. Expect to see the water’s shifting shades of blue, from turquoise to navy, depending on the sunlight and depth.

After the boat tour, you’ll head to the restaurant, Papitos Bacalar, for lunch. Many reviewers mention that the tacos are a highlight, especially the pork ones, though some advise arriving early to avoid long waits. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, making the meal accessible for different diets.

The entire experience lasts about five hours, including transportation, the boat ride, lunch, and some free time. The timing is well-paced but can feel a bit long if you’re not a fan of extended drives.

Review Insights: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a generally positive picture. Renea_L emphasized how the beautiful water and great guide made for an enjoyable day. Similarly, Debrah_C praised Charlie, their guide, for “great care,” and Hanna_M appreciated how Jhoana kept everyone entertained and even shared photos afterward—a thoughtful touch.

On the flip side, some travelers expressed disappointment—mainly due to the long transit times and perceived underwhelming water color compared to promotional images. Heather_H’s review pointed out issues with communication, especially on cruise days with limited internet, and Chaireline_L recounted a frustrating experience involving delays and a lack of transparency.

These mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations—this tour is a lovely way to see Bacalar’s lagoon, but it isn’t a quick, luxury escape. It’s about experiencing a natural marvel with friendly guides and a taste of local cuisine.

The Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

At $145 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day out—transportation, boat ride, lunch, snacks, drinks, and insurance are all included. For travelers wanting to see Bacalar without hassle, it’s a fair deal. The small group setting increases the likelihood of personal attention, and many reviews rave about the guides’ friendliness and knowledge.

However, the long travel time and the limited water time mean this experience is better suited for those who love scenic drives and are prepared for a bit of a lengthy day. If your priority is maximizing water time or avoiding long transfers, you might consider other options or adjusting expectations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and good food. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided experiences and value small-group intimacy. It suits people who don’t mind the drive and are eager to see Bacalar’s famous colors up close.

If you’re a foodie wanting authentic tacos or a nature lover craving a boat cruise, this tour ticks plenty of boxes. But if you prefer shorter trips or more water-based activities, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Bacalar Seven Colors Lagoon boat excursion from Costa Maya offers a genuine chance to enjoy some of Mexico’s most stunning waters. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and included local cuisine makes it a solid choice for those seeking an authentic day outing. While the long drive and some logistical quirks may not appeal to everyone**, many travelers find the experience to be both memorable and worthwhile.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural authenticity, and relaxed environments. If you’re looking for an immersive experience that balances natural beauty with local flavor, then this trip will likely meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them, thanks to its personal touches and dedicated guides.

How long is the drive from Costa Maya to Bacalar?
The drive takes approximately 1 hour each way, so you’ll spend about 2 hours in transit total. It’s a significant part of the trip but allows for scenic views along the way.

What’s included in the tour price?
The $145 fee covers transportation, a boat cruise on Bacalar Lagoon, snacks, bottled water, soda, alcoholic beverages (beer and tequila), a taco lunch, and insurance.

Can I request vegetarian or vegan options for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, ensuring that different dietary preferences are accommodated.

How much time do you spend on the water?
Expect about two hours of cruising on the lagoon, with opportunities to swim or relax in the water. The rest of the time is spent traveling and enjoying lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. Since drinks are available, bringing extra water is optional but recommended. Comfortable shoes and a camera are also good ideas.

What if the trip is canceled due to weather or other issues?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancelations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many travelers speak highly of their guides, like Joanna and Jhoana, for their friendliness, local knowledge, and attentiveness.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 49 days ahead, which helps secure a spot, especially during peak times. Given the limited slots, early booking is advised.

Whether you’re after stunning photos, a taste of local cuisine, or just a peaceful float in some of Mexico’s clearest waters, this Bacalar lagoon tour provides a well-rounded experience. Just prepare for the drive, and you’ll come away with a story worth telling.