Bacalar: 3 Hour Boat Trip with Swimming & Drinks

Discover Bacalar’s Lagoon on a 3-Hour Boat Trip with Swimming & Drinks

Imagine gliding across a turquoise lagoon, surrounded by lush vegetation and vibrant birdlife, all while relaxing on a spacious boat with inclusive drinks and snacks. That’s exactly what you get with this 3-hour Bacalar boat tour, which typically starts from either Costera 67a or Costera 67, depending on your booking. For just $27 per person, you’ll experience some of the most iconic sights in the region, from Cenote Esmeralda to Bird Island, with plenty of time to swim and enjoy the scenery.

What we love most about this trip is the balanced mix of spectacular sights and laid-back atmosphere. The boat is spacious and comfortable, making it ideal for families or small groups who want to soak up Bacalar’s famous seven-color lagoon. Plus, the knowledgeable guides—like Daniel, Gorka, and Jonathan—bring a genuine enthusiasm that makes the experience more meaningful. The inclusion of snacks, water, and three beers per adult adds a nice touch of value, allowing you to relax without worrying about extra costs.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour takes place rain or shine, so if you’re not keen on getting wet or if weather is cloudy, your experience might differ slightly. Also, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or heart problems, so plan accordingly if these apply to you. This trip is best suited for nature lovers, first-time visitors to Bacalar, and travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a relaxing swim.

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Key Points

Stunning Sights: Includes stops at Cenote Esmeralda, Cocalitos, and Bird Island, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Educational: Guides share insights about the lagoon’s flora, fauna, and history, making it more than just a boat ride.
Value for Money: An affordable price that includes drinks, snacks, and time for swimming.
Flexible Options: Multiple starting points and availability in the morning or afternoon.
Active and Relaxing: Combines scenic cruising, swimming, and optional kayaking for a well-rounded experience.
Authentic Experience: Small group sizes and knowledgeable guides provide a genuine feel for Bacalar’s natural beauty.

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The Experience in Detail: A Deep Dive into What You Can Expect

Starting Out: From Meeting Point to Safety Briefing

The adventure begins at either Costera 67a or Costera 67, popular spots centrally located in Bacalar. Before setting sail, you’ll receive a brief safety orientation—a quick rundown on boat etiquette and what to do if you want to jump into the water. The tour’s small group setup means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and you’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions about Bacalar’s ecosystem.

Cruising Through Cenote Esmeralda

Your first notable sight is the Cenote Esmeralda, the largest in Bacalar, over 500 meters in diameter and around 70 meters deep. As your boat cruises past, you’ll get a sense of its scale—the clear water, the steep sides, the mysterious depths. We loved the way the boat allows you to see the size and beauty of this natural wonder without the hassle of navigating it yourself.

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The Pirate Canal: Swimming and History

Next, the boat stops at the El Canal De Los Piratas, giving you roughly 40 minutes to swim in the crystal waters. This is a highlight, especially if you enjoy jumping into natural pools surrounded by greenery. The tour guides often share stories about the pirates who once used this route, adding a layer of historical intrigue—something reviewers like Daniel appreciated: “We saw many very nice places and had a lot of fun. The drinks and watermelon were a nice touch.”

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Scenic Stops and Wildlife

Other stops include the Cenote Cocalitos, where you can take photos of the lush surroundings, and Cenote Negro, which offers a different visual experience with darker waters. The Isla de los Pájaros provides a chance to observe local and migratory bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a variety of species and learn about the lagoon’s importance for local wildlife, as many reviewers have noted their enjoyment of the wildlife observation.

Stromatolite Barrier and Bird Sanctuary

Back on the boat, you’ll pass the Stromatolite Barrier, which is home to some of the oldest organisms on Earth—an incredible natural marvel. Seeing this from the boat offers a reminder of Bacalar’s planetary significance. The bird sanctuary stop is another highlight, offering more chances to see local bird species.

Optional Kayaking and Additional Activities

Some tours include a one-hour kayaking session, giving you a chance to paddle around and get closer to the natural beauty. This extra is perfect for travelers who want more active engagement and to extend the tranquility of the lagoon.

Food and Drink: A Relaxed Social Affair

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy natural fruit beverages, water, and seasonal fruits. The three beers per adult are a popular perk, allowing for a relaxed, social vibe. Guides are often friendly and informatively chatty, sharing stories about Bacalar’s flora and fauna—like Jonathan, who was praised for his knowledge and friendliness (“He shared a lot of information about the cenotes, native wildlife, and ensured safety for all,” said a review).

Final Stop: Kayaking or More Swimming

The tour wraps up with additional time for swimming or kayaking, giving you the chance to savor the lagoon’s serenity before returning to your starting point. Many visitors, like Naomi, mentioned how the swimming spots and beautiful water made their trip memorable.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This boat trip offers an excellent balance between scenic sights, educational commentary, and leisure. The small-group atmosphere ensures personalized attention, and the affordable price point makes it accessible. The inclusive drinks and snacks mean you won’t need to worry about bringing extras, and the stops at Cenote Esmeralda and Bird Island showcase Bacalar’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are often praised, making the journey more engaging. Travelers also appreciate the spacious boat, which makes for a comfortable ride, and the opportunity to swim in pristine waters—a highlight that many reviews emphasize.

Considerations and Who This Tour Suits Best

While most travelers rave about the guide’s friendliness and the sights, it’s worth noting that the trip occurs rain or shine—so if you’re wary of weather, prepare accordingly. Also, since the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired, or those with heart issues, it’s important to keep your health in mind.

This tour appeals most to nature lovers, first-time visitors, and anyone looking for a relaxed yet scenic experience. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting to enjoy Bacalar’s lagoon without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who values authentic natural beauty, enjoys learning about local ecosystems, and appreciates good value for money, this boat trip is a fantastic option. The opportunity to swim in clear waters, see rare stromatolites, and spot native bird species makes it well worth the modest price.

The friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and inclusive amenities make this a memorable way to appreciate Bacalar’s lagoon at a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an easy, scenic adventure that offers a mix of photo-worthy sights, wildlife, and leisurely fun.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, ground transportation is not included. You’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself, but it’s centrally located in Bacalar, making it easy to reach.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and a towel, especially if you plan to swim. Sunscreen is not allowed during the tour, likely to protect the lagoon’s ecosystem, so consider wearing protective clothing or seeking shade when not on the boat.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather on your scheduled day.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with heart problems. Check with the operator if you have concerns.

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts 3 hours, with various stops for swimming, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing.

Can I do additional activities like kayaking?
Yes, some tours offer kayaking as an optional activity for about an hour, which is a great way to extend your time on the lagoon.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers seasonal fruit, water, natural fruit beverages, and 3 beers per adult. Snacks are also provided onboard.

Will I see wildlife during the trip?
Absolutely. Many travelers mention observing various bird species and the stromatolite barrier, adding an educational and natural element to the trip.

To sum it up, this Bacalar boat tour offers a delightful mix of scenery, education, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want to see Bacalar’s highlights without fuss, enjoy some swimming, and learn about this unique lagoon. The combination of friendly guides, scenic stops, and good value makes it a solid choice for a memorable day in Quintana Roo.