3 hr Pontoon Tour with access to Beach Club and Free Kayaks

Discover Bacalar’s Lagoon of the 7 Colors on a 3-Hour Pontoon Tour

A trip to Bacalar isn’t complete without experiencing its famous lagoon, affectionately called the Lagoon of the 7 Colors. For just $22 per person, you’ll spend about three hours cruising comfortably on a shaded pontoon boat, exploring scenic spots like the Pirates Canal, three unique cenotes, and the charming Bird Island. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a laid-back, informative, and scenic adventure—especially if you love swimming, nature, and learning about local history from friendly guides.

What we love most is how this tour balances relaxation with discovery. You’ll get to enjoy the lagoon’s incredible colors, snorkel in clear waters, and even sip seasonal fruits and natural drinks while soaking in the views. Plus, the access to a beach club and free kayaks means you can extend your adventure after the tour ends, making it a great value for the price.

A small consideration is that this is a group tour with a maximum of 14 travelers, which is ideal for a personal experience but could feel crowded during peak times or if you’re seeking complete solitude. Still, the intimate size generally contributes to friendly interactions and plenty of attention from guides.

This tour suits adventure seekers, families, or solo travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and the chance to swim in some of Mexico’s most stunning waters without breaking the bank. Whether you’re in Bacalar for a day or a few, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of the lagoon’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $22, it offers great value, including access to kayaking and the beach club.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Anthony and Daniel are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.
• Beautiful Stops: Highlights include Pirates Canal, three cenotes, and Bird Island—ideal for swimming and photos.
• Relaxed Pace: The three-hour duration balances sightseeing with plenty of swimming opportunities.
• Comfortable Transportation: Shaded pontoon boats provide a comfortable, scenic ride on the lagoon.
• Extra Amenities: Free kayaks and access to the beach club enhance the day’s enjoyment.

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Pontoon Tour

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

This three-hour tour begins at Casa China Bacalar, a convenient spot near public transportation, making access easy. From there, you’ll hop on a comfortable, shaded pontoon boat, which immediately signals a focus on comfort and avoiding sunburn—important when spending hours on the water.

Your route takes you through some of Bacalar’s most notable sights. First, the Pirates Canal (or Calle de los Piratas)—a narrow, winding waterway that once sheltered pirates and now offers picturesque views of lush greenery and historical intrigue. According to one review, guides like Gorka provide “excellent explanations,” making the experience both scenic and educational.

Next, the tour visits three cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with clear, inviting water perfect for swimming or just wading in. These stops are often highlighted as “peaceful” and “beautiful,” giving travelers a chance to cool off and enjoy nature up close. Several reviewers mention how the water temperature is like “bath water,” which makes swimming especially relaxing.

Bird Island is another highlight, home to diverse birdlife and a charming spot for photos. The boat’s guides often share insights into the lagoon’s ecology, such as stromatolites—some of the oldest living organisms on Earth—which adds an educational dimension to the trip.

What’s Included and How It Enhances the Experience

For the modest price, you get more than just a boat ride. The tour offers seasonal fruits and natural drinks, which are a nice touch—reviewers often mention how refreshing and tasty these are, especially after swimming. As one person noted, “boats are clean and equipped with beer and fresh fruits,” making the trip feel like a mini tropical feast.

Once the tour concludes, you’re invited to enjoy the beach club facilities—lounging on the sand, swimming, or taking out one of the free kayaks. This flexibility is a significant advantage, allowing you to extend your time in Bacalar without extra cost or hassle.

Guides and Group Size: Authentic and Friendly

The reviews repeatedly praise the guides, mentioning names like Anthony, Daniel, and Gorka, for their friendly, knowledgeable, and patient demeanor. Several reviews highlight how guides take the time to explain local lore, geology, and history, which adds depth to the experience.

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the group size fosters a personal and relaxed atmosphere. Travelers have shared how early morning trips were particularly peaceful due to fewer boats on the water, enhancing the serenity.

The Value Behind the Price

At just $22, this tour offers remarkable value. It includes transportation, guidance, access to attractions, snacks, and kayaks—costs you’d likely pay extra for independently. The inclusion of free kayaking and beach club access makes it an even better deal, extending the enjoyment beyond the three-hour cruise.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While most travelers rave about the experience, a few mention that the group size or the tour timing could be a factor, especially if you’re looking for a completely private or more secluded experience. Plus, the tour depends on good weather—poor weather can lead to cancellations or less enjoyable conditions, as explicitly stated in the cancellation policy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anyone wanting a low-cost, scenic, and educational way to explore Bacalar’s lagoon. Families, couples, solo travelers, and small groups who enjoy swimming, nature, and casual sightseeing will find plenty to love. If you’re seeking guides who are friendly and knowledgeable with a genuine passion for the lagoon, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This 3-hour pontoon tour in Bacalar balances value, comfort, and authentic exploration. For just over twenty dollars, you gain access to some of Mexico’s most stunning waters, learn about the lagoon’s history and ecology, and enjoy amenities like free kayaks and a beach club.

The friendly guides and peaceful stops make it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet enriching experience. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and water activities elevates it from a simple boat ride to a memorable day in nature. While weather can influence the trip, most reviews agree that the beauty of Bacalar’s lagoon makes this tour worthwhile.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Bacalar, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse of its natural wonders—perfect for those who appreciate scenic waters, educational insights, and value-packed experiences.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages participate, and the calm waters and short duration make it suitable for families. Just ensure children are comfortable swimming or are supervised near water.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your swimsuit, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (note the tour recommends limited sunscreen). A towel and extra clothes for swimming are also handy, as well as your favorite snacks or drinks if you want to supplement what’s provided.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The stops at cenotes and other spots are perfect for swimming, and many reviews mention how peaceful and enjoyable these moments are.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The tour provides seasonal fruits and natural drinks, which are generally suitable for most diets. If you have specific needs, you might want to bring your own snacks.

What happens if it rains?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you will be offered a different date or a full refund, according to the cancellation policy.

Is it possible to extend the experience?
Yes. After the tour ends, you can enjoy the beach club and use the free kayaks to continue exploring or relaxing at your leisure.

In the end, this Bacalar pontoon tour strikes a sweet balance between scenic beauty, educational value, and affordability. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the lagoon’s vibrant waters, learn about its natural and cultural history, and unwind in a peaceful setting. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, memorable day without overpaying or sacrificing comfort.