Sailing Tour through the Lagoon of the 7 Colors

If you’re planning a trip to Bacalar, one experience that truly captures the magic of this place is a sailing tour of the Lagoon of the 7 Colors. Priced at just $31.45 per person, this roughly three-hour excursion takes you through the stunning, multi-shaded waters of one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural wonders. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides—like Valentino, Valles, or David—you’ll explore the famous pirate channel, cenotes, bird island, and the crystal-clear waters you’ve seen in photos.

What we love about this tour is how it balances relaxation with education. The guides do a fantastic job of sharing insights into the history and ecosystem, adding a layer of understanding to your scenic cruise. Plus, the small-group setup—limited to 16 travelers—ensures you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and unwind.

A potential consideration is the weather, as the tour relies on wind for sailing. Some travelers have mentioned the importance of sunscreen (no shirts allowed during the ride), so packing accordingly is wise. It’s also worth noting that ground transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point.

This trip suits travelers who want a laid-back, informative, and authentic experience of Bacalar’s waters. If you enjoy small-group adventures, scenic sailing, and are eager to learn from friendly guides, this tour will hit the spot.

Key Points

• Affordable and value-packed: For just over thirty dollars, you get a multi-stop tour full of swimming and sightseeing.
• Small group size: Ensures more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Educational guides: Guides like Valentino and Valles share insights into the lagoon’s history and ecosystem.
• Flexible timing options: Choose between two different tour durations to fit your schedule.
• Multiple stops and activities: Cenotes, bird island, pirate canal, and swimming opportunities.
• Weather dependency: Wind is essential for sailing, so weather can influence the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Experience

The Sailing Tour through the Lagoon of the 7 Colors promises a leisurely route through Bacalar’s most captivating sights. From the moment you arrive at Casa China in Bacalar’s Colonia Costero Sur, you’ll notice the intimate setting—maximum 16 travelers—that fosters a friendly, relaxed environment. Once aboard, your crew—friendly and well-informed—will greet you with safety gear and natural fruit drinks, setting a tone of comfort and care.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time in the water and learning about the area. You’ll visit three different cenotes, each offering a refreshing break from the boat. Cenotes are natural freshwater sinkholes, and their clear waters are perfect for a quick swim or snorkel, especially since snorkeling equipment is provided. As one reviewer noted, “we had a lot of time for swimming, enjoying cenotes, and the lagoon,” which highlights how much of the tour is dedicated to water-based fun.

A visit to Bird Island provides a chance for birdwatching and appreciating the local fauna. The island is a peaceful spot where you might see native birds and learn about their habitat from your guides. The Pirate Channel is another highlight, rich in history and stories shared by guides like Valentino, who excel at explaining the area’s past in an engaging way.

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy delicious Caribbean snacks and drinks—fresh fruit juices and beers—which keep you refreshed. The reviews emphasize how guides like David, Sebastian, or Angelo make a point to add local flavor and stories, creating a personalized experience that many travelers cherish.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins at Casa China in Bacalar’s Colonia Costero Sur, where check-in is straightforward with a mobile ticket. The boat departs with a small group, ensuring everyone has enough space to relax or swim. The crew sets sail, and as the wind fills the sails, you’ll glide over the turquoise waters of Bacalar.

The first stops are usually cenotes, where you can jump in and cool off. These cenotes are natural freshwater pools, offering perfect swimming conditions with their crystal-clear water. Multiple reviews praise the ample swimming time—some mention “plenty of bathing time”—and the opportunity to snorkel if you wish.

Next, you’ll head towards Bird Island, home to various native bird species. Here, guides like Sebastián share info on local birdlife, adding an educational element to the trip. The Pirate Canal is another favorite spot, where stories about Bacalar’s pirate past are shared, adding a layer of intrigue.

The trip then moves across the lagoon, offering spectacular views of the 7 Colors, which is the result of different depths and mineral content. Travelers often comment on how stunning and varied the waters are, with some saying, “what beautiful clear FRESH water!”

Authentic and Relaxed Atmosphere

Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides. Valentino, Valles, David, and others are praised for their warmth, professionalism, and depth of knowledge. One reviewer mentioned, “they took their time to explain the history and ecosystem,” which shows how guides prioritize education without rushing the experience.

The small-group format ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed, allowing plenty of space to swim, relax, and enjoy at your own pace. The snacks and drinks are a simple but appreciated touch, especially since they include healthy options like fresh fruit and local beers.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Duration and Timing: You can choose a two-hour or three-hour tour, fitting conveniently into your schedule.
• Cost and Value: At just over $31, the price includes snorkeling gear, natural drinks, beers, and snacks—offering good value for the variety and quality of the experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 16 travelers, which fosters a more intimate setting, ideal for those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere.
• Weather: Since the tour is sailing-based, wind conditions are crucial. Some reviews noted no wind days can limit sailing, but you still get the stops and swimming.
• What to Bring: Towels aren’t included, so bringing your own is wise. Sunscreen is not allowed on the boat—wear a shirt or cover-up to prevent sunburn.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

The reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, friendly tour that balances scenic beauty, history, and fun. Travelers consistently mention the expertise and friendliness of guides like Valentino, Valles, David, and Angello, emphasizing how they enrich the journey with stories and local knowledge.

Many reviewers highlight the beauty of the water, describing it as “really nice to swim in,” and “stunning views.” One noted how the “beautiful clear FRESH water” was so inviting that “we didn’t want to get out,” capturing the refreshing appeal of Bacalar’s lagoon.

The snacks and drinks are another point of praise, with reviews emphasizing the delicious fruit drinks, beers, and healthy snacks. The inclusion of these touches elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a small, floating celebration of local flavors.

Some travelers comment on the relaxing pace and the opportunity for plenty of swimming and lounging, making this ideal for those looking to unwind. However, a few mention that weather conditions can impact the experience—if the wind isn’t favorable, sailing might be limited, but the stops for swimming and sightseeing remain.

The cost-benefit ratio is highly favorable, with many noting that this is “the best experience in Bacalar” for its price and personalized approach. A few reviews mention delays or less sailing time, but overall, guests leave satisfied with the friendly guides, scenic views, and relaxing atmosphere.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing tour of Bacalar’s Lagoon of the 7 Colors is perfect for travelers who value authentic, relaxed experiences with a touch of education. It suits those who enjoy small-group outings, want to spend quality time swimming in pristine waters, and appreciate knowing about the local ecosystem and history.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic views paired with friendly guides and want to explore Bacalar’s highlights without a rushed schedule, this tour is a strong choice. It offers a peaceful way to connect with nature, learn about the area, and enjoy a laid-back, culturally rich experience.

For travelers seeking a quick, budget-friendly way to see the lagoon’s best spots while savoring local snacks and drinks, this tour hits the mark. While the sailing depends on the weather, the stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring make it a versatile, memorable day in Bacalar.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially since it’s relaxed and offers plenty of swimming and fun stops. Guides like David and Fernando are known for their warmth and good care for kids.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the bilingual guide, safety equipment, snacks, natural fruit drinks, and three beers per adult. Snorkeling gear is also provided.

Do I need to bring my own towels?
Towels are not included, so bringing your own is advisable for after-swimming. Remember that sunscreen is not allowed on the boat, so wear a shirt or protective clothing.

How long is the tour?
You can choose between a 2-hour or 3-hour experience, depending on your schedule and preferences.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Casa China Bacalar in Colonia Costero Sur. The activity ends at the same location, making it convenient for further exploring the area.

What should I wear?
Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a hat or cap for sun protection. Since sunscreen isn’t allowed on the boat, wearing a shirt or rash guard is recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If the weather is poor, the tour might be canceled and rescheduled or refunded—so keep an eye on the forecast.

In essence, this sailing tour offers a wonderful way to experience Bacalar’s famed lagoon in a relaxed, intimate setting. The combination of scenic beauty, friendly guides, and water activities makes it a top pick for anyone eager to enjoy the natural charm of this Mexican gem without the hassles of large crowds or rushed schedules.