Sailing Tour through the Laguna de los Siete Colores

Imagine gliding across a lagoon that boasts shades of blue and green so vivid they seem almost surreal. That’s what you get with the Sailing Tour through Bacalar’s Seven Colors Lagoon — a three-hour cruise that promises a serene escape into one of Mexico’s most stunning natural sights. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable crew members, you’ll explore the crystal-clear waters, stop for refreshing swims, and enjoy a simple yet tasty brunch onboard. All of this for just over 35 dollars per person makes it a pretty great deal.

What we love about this experience is how personal and low-key it feels. The small group size, capped at just eight travelers, means you get genuine attention from your guides, like Carla, Zazil, or Leo, who all seem dedicated to making your trip memorable. The sailing aspect—if the wind allows—is an added bonus, giving you a chance to enjoy the lagoon quietly moving through the water rather than just motoring along. The second highlight? The stops at less crowded swimming spots that allow you to truly relax without the typical tourist hustle.

A potential point to consider is that this tour is primarily focused on sailing and swimming rather than in-depth cultural or wildlife explanations. If you’re expecting a detailed commentary about the lagoon’s fauna or history, you might find it a bit light. Also, the boat isn’t covered, so packing sunscreen and hats is a must. This experience will suit travelers who appreciate laid-back, scenic days, value small groups, and enjoy light physical activity like swimming and relaxing on a boat.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury: For just over $35, you get a 3-hour private-style sailing experience with stops for swimming and a tasty onboard brunch.
• Small group intimacy: With a maximum of 8 travelers, your guides can focus on your needs and share personalized insights.
• Stunning scenery: The lagoon’s shifting shades of blue and green create perfect photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Eco-conscious sailing: When wind conditions permit, the boat uses natural propulsion, offering a quieter, carbon footprint-friendly way to enjoy the lagoon.
• Variety of stops: From Cenote Negro to Pirate Canal, each stop offers a unique view and a chance to take a dip in the clear water.
• Authentic experience: Guided by friendly crew members who are knowledgeable about the lagoon’s features, wildlife, and local stories.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at Casa Sirena, marina Wild Wave Bacalar, conveniently located along the Costera in Bacalar. We recommend arriving about 15 minutes early so you can meet your crew and settle in comfortably. The process is straightforward — a short briefing, then you’ll board a cozy sailboat that fits your small group. Booking online with a mobile ticket means no fuss on the day, and the price of $35.72 per person makes it accessible for most travelers.

The tour lasts approximately three hours, which is ideal for a relaxed afternoon. You can choose between two different time slots, allowing you to fit this experience into your broader travel plans easily.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Lake Bacalar and the Departure

The adventure begins with your crew, often with cheerful guides like Carla, Zazil, or Leo, introducing you to the boat and the lagoon’s highlights. As the boat gently moves out from the marina, you’ll start to see why Bacalar is called the “Maldives of Mexico.” The water here isn’t just beautiful; it’s alive with shades that shift with the sunlight and angle — a photographer’s paradise.

Stop 2: Cenote Negro or Cenote de la Bruja

Your first stop is the Cenote Negro, which plunges to a depth of about 180 meters. It’s a remarkable sight, adding a touch of mystery to your journey. While you won’t spend hours here, the brief time allows for snapping photos and soaking in the impressive depth of this natural sinkhole.

Stop 3: Pirate Canal

Next, the boat navigates into the Pirate Canal, a narrow, winding stretch of water surrounded by lush greenery. Here, you’ll have enough time to descend and swim, taking a break from the boat’s gentle rocking. Reviews often mention how this spot feels private and peaceful, a perfect chance to cool off and enjoy the lagoon’s crystalline waters.

Final Stops and Return

The last few stops are carefully selected to avoid the crowds and maximize your relaxation. The crew often takes you to less busy swimming spots, where you can float and unwind in the warm sun. After about an hour of swimming and relaxing, the boat heads back toward the marina, with a few moments of sailing if the wind cooperates—an experience many reviews highlight as a highlight.

The Onboard Experience

One of the best features of this tour is the small group size, which means more personalized attention and easier conversations with your guides. Guests frequently praise the crew for their friendliness and knowledge, with mentions of guides like Carla, Zazil, Leandro, and Cami making the experience even more enjoyable.

The brunch onboard is simple but thoughtful — fresh fruits, perhaps mango (which reviewers rave about), and cold beverages like beers or sodas. It’s a casual, refreshing perk that adds to the relaxed vibe. However, keep in mind that sunscreen, even biodegradable options, isn’t allowed in the lagoon, so plan accordingly to protect your skin.

The Sailing and Movement

While the boat is typically powered by a motor, on windy days, it can sail using the natural breeze. This makes the trip more eco-friendly and adds a peaceful, rhythmic quality to the journey. Several reviews mention how the sailing aspect enhances the experience, giving a sense of connection to the natural environment.

Expect the boat to be modest in size; this isn’t a large cruise ship but a cozy vessel designed for comfort and intimacy. The crew’s skill in navigating the lagoon is often highlighted, ensuring safety while allowing you to enjoy the scenery.

Pricing and Value

At $35.72 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a relaxed, scenic, and personalized experience. Comparing the price to similar tours, it’s clear you’re paying mainly for the small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experience rather than luxury extras — and that’s exactly what many travelers appreciate.

The included swimming stops, scenic views, and onboard brunch make it an economical choice for anyone wanting a taste of Bacalar’s natural beauty without overspending.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, those who appreciate small-group intimacy, and travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water. If you’re interested in sailing (or at least experiencing it if wind permits), you’ll find this particularly satisfying. The emphasis on unscripted stops at less crowded spots** makes it ideal for travelers who prefer authentic, peaceful moments over busy tourist spots.

It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an easy, low-key way to see Bacalar’s highlights — and enjoy some swimming in arguably the clearest waters in Mexico.

This sailing tour through Bacalar’s lagoon is a wonderful choice for travelers who value intimate settings, authentic scenery, and knowledgeable guides. For just over $35, you get a well-organized, relaxing experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the lagoon. The small group size ensures you’ll never feel lost in the crowd, and the eco-conscious sailing adds a meaningful touch for those concerned about sustainability.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure that combines nature, a bit of sailing, and local charm, this tour hits the mark nicely. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and your sense of curiosity — you’ll leave Bacalar with a new appreciation for this stunning corner of Mexico.

Is there a limit to the number of people on the tour?
Yes, the tour caps at eight travelers, making it intimate and allowing guides to give personalized attention.

What should I bring on the tour?
Since sunscreen isn’t allowed in the lagoon and there’s no covered area on the boat, bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel.

Can I choose the tour time?
Yes, you can select from two available durations, making it easier to fit the tour into your schedule.

What does the onboard brunch include?
It typically features fresh seasonal fruits (such as mango) and cold drinks like beers or sodas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the small boat and swimming stops, children should be supervised, and the tour is best suited for those comfortable in the water.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking online in advance is recommended, especially since the tour has been popular — last week, it was booked over five times.

This sailing tour offers a fantastic way to experience Bacalar’s natural beauty in a relaxed, authentic way. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water or a memorable adventure with friends or family, it’s a trip that balances value, scenery, and small-group charm—an experience worth considering on your visit to Mexico’s “Lagoon of the Seven Colors.”