Laguna Grill: 4-hr Private Boat Tour with BBQ and Drinks

Exploring Bacalar’s famous Lagoon of Seven Colors is a must for anyone visiting the Mexican Caribbean, and this private boat tour with Laguna Grill promises a memorable way to do just that. It combines scenic cruising, local sights, swimming, and a tasty on-board barbecue—all in a comfortable, intimate setting. This tour stands out because it’s the only one in Bacalar that offers a fully onboard meal experience, making it a fantastic choice for food lovers or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances scenic beauty with culinary delight—you get to enjoy the views of iconic spots like the Pirate Canal and Bird Island while eating a freshly grilled surf & turf skewers. Another big plus is the personalized service of a private group, which means less crowding and more time to relax.

One potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off—so travelers need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s worth factoring into your planning.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, private experience that combines nature, culture, and great food—perfect for couples, families, or groups celebrating something special.

Key Points

• Unique onboard BBQ experience with freshly grilled meal included
• Visits to Bacalar’s top sights like Pirate Canal, Cenote Negro, and Bird Island
• Swim, relax, and enjoy free kayaks during the tour
• Private group setting offers personalized attention and flexibility
• Informative guides share local stories in both English and Spanish
• Flexible schedule with morning and afternoon options

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Laguna Grill Boat Tour?

This private boat tour in Bacalar offers a combination you won’t find elsewhere: breathtaking views, engaging stops, and a delicious BBQ all on a comfortable boat. It’s a good pick for those who want to avoid large group tours and prefer a more personalized experience. The 4-hour duration hits the sweet spot—long enough to see the highlights and indulge in swimming or kayaking, but not so long that you feel overstretched or exhausted.

The tour’s highlight is, of course, the onboard barbecue, which sets it apart. Imagine sitting on a boat, with a plate of surf & turf skewers and homemade guacamole, as you glide past the iconic landmarks of Bacalar. That combination of scenery and flavor makes this a memorable experience.

The tour’s stops include Pirate Canal, famous for its history and scenic beauty, and Cenote Negro, a strikingly dark and mysterious sinkhole. The inclusion of Bird Island and Isla de los Pájaros offers chances to see local wildlife and enjoy some peaceful moments away from the crowds. Plus, the free kayaks provide an active option for those who want to paddle around after or between swims.

According to reviews, guides like Banda and Gorka are praised for their knowledgeability, friendliness, and patience, making the experience more engaging and enjoyable. One traveler from France mentioned, “Banda was really kind, fun, and patient. He made our day the BEST day of our vacations.” That kind of personal touch can really make a difference.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Costera 67, the tour begins with a scenic photo stop at Casa China Bacalar—a good chance to snap some colorful shots of the town. Once underway, the boat cruises toward Cenote Esmeralda, passing by picturesque scenery and offering a glimpse of Bacalar’s natural beauty.

Next, you’ll cruise to Cenote Negro, a dark, mysterious sinkhole that’s perfect for a quick photo or a dip if you’re brave enough. The highlight of the trip is the swimming and BBQ session, which lasts about an hour. Here, you’ll pull up to a calm spot in the lagoon, where a delicious freshly grilled meal awaits on the boat.

After lunch, the boat heads toward Bacalar Lagoon, with scenic views and photo opportunities. Then, it’s time to visit El Canal De Los Piratas, a famous passageway with both historical significance and stunning scenery. Here, you can relax with a cold beer, enjoy a picnic, take a swim, or just soak in the surroundings.

The tour also makes stops at Isla de los Pájaros, where wildlife viewing is possible, and offers free time to swim and kayak again. The final part of the cruise includes a leisurely ride back across the lagoon, allowing you to soak in the views one last time before returning to the starting point.

The Food and Beverages

One of the standout features is the onboard BBQ, which includes surf & turf skewers and homemade guacamole. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, showing a thoughtful touch for dietary preferences. The drinks list is robust, featuring tropical fruit beverages, water, beer, and soft drinks, all included in the price.

Guests often mention the quality of the food; one reviewer from France called the barbecue “very good,” while others appreciated the relaxed vibe of eating right on the water. This makes the experience not only visually stunning but also a tasty, satisfying escape from typical tourist fare.

The Experience and Guides

The guides are praised for their warmth, knowledge, and patience. With bilingual guides available in English and Spanish, communication is smooth for international visitors. Many reviews highlight how guides like Banda and Gorka add personal flair, sharing stories and making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Since it’s a private group tour, the pace can be adapted slightly, and questions are encouraged. The guides’ local insights and friendly manner help elevate the experience from a simple boat trip to a more genuine, engaging adventure.

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Pricing and Value

At $157 per person, the tour is on the pricier side for some travelers, but considering it’s a private, all-included experience with food, drinks, and kayak use, it offers good value. The exclusivity and personalized attention mean less crowd noise and more tailored moments—something you pay extra for in larger group tours.

Given the quality of the meal, the scenic stops, and the flexibility, many guests feel it’s worth the price. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed, intimate day on the water without sacrificing comfort or good food.

Practical Tips

• Arrive on time at Casa China Bacalar for the meeting; the tour starts promptly.
• Inform the operator about food allergies at least 8 hours before the tour if needed.
• Bring sun protection: hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
• If you want to paddle around, take advantage of the free kayaks during the swimming breaks.
• Remember, there’s no hotel pickup included, so plan your transportation to the starting point.

This private boat tour with Laguna Grill offers a rare mix of spectacular scenery, cultural sights, delicious food, and personalized service. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate experience in Bacalar, especially if they enjoy good food and quiet moments in nature. The knowledgeable guides, tasty onboard barbecue, and scenic stops make it a highly memorable way to explore the lagoon.

While it’s a bit on the higher end price-wise, the value for the personalized experience, quality meal, and flexible itinerary makes it a worthwhile investment for a special day in Bacalar. If you’re looking for a combination of adventure, culture, and culinary delight, this tour will deliver.

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a luxurious yet authentic day on the water. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating something special or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious, scenic escape.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Casa China Bacalar.

Can I request vegetarian skewers?
Yes, vegetarian skewers are available with prior notice, so let the tour provider know when booking.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with scheduled stops and activities throughout that time.

What sights will we see?
You’ll visit the Pirate Canal, Cenote Negro, Bird Island, and Isla de los Pájaros, among other scenic spots.

Are drinks included?
Yes, tropical fruit beverages, water, beer, and soft drinks are all included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and swimming/kayaking options make it family-friendly, but always check with the provider if you have very young children.

In summary, the Laguna Grill private boat tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Bacalar’s lagoon — combining scenic beauty, local history, active fun, and a delicious meal on the water. It’s especially ideal for those who value intimacy, comfort, and culinary flair in their water adventures.

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