Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo Adventure

Imagine cruising through a tranquil lagoon, surrounded by vibrant shades of blue, stopping at hidden cenotes, and soaking in history from a Spanish fort with panoramic views. This Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo offers just that — a chance to see some of the most beautiful natural and historical sights near Costa Maya for about $143 per person. The tour lasts roughly 5 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable yet memorable addition to your cruise itinerary.

What really makes this experience shine is the chance to visit Cenote la Bruja, with its crystal-clear waters and fascinating underwater formations, and glide through Pirate’s Channel, where stories of pirates and buried treasures add a dash of adventure to your boat ride. Plus, a quick stop at the San Felipe Fort rewards you with sweeping views of the lagoon and a taste of local history. We love how these stops blend natural beauty with a touch of storytelling — giving the tour a sense of depth beyond just sightseeing.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is somewhat dependent on your cruise schedule. If your ship arrives late or if there’s any delay, your experience might be shortened or disrupted, which is worth considering. Also, the entrance fee to San Felipe Fort is not included ($5), so budget that in. This tour suits travelers who enjoy combining scenic boat trips with cultural and natural highlights — especially those eager to explore Bacalar’s famous lagoon and cenotes without the hassle of planning transportation themselves.

Key Points

• Beautiful natural scenery: The tour showcases Bacalar’s famed 7-color lagoon and vibrant waters.
• Historical interest: A quick visit to San Felipe Fort provides a glimpse into local history and stunning panoramic views.
• Unique stops: The cenotes and Pirate’s Channel offer memorable moments for swimming, photos, and storytelling.
• Comfortable transport: The roundtrip via air-conditioned vehicle makes getting to and from Costa Maya easy.
• All-inclusive beverages and snacks: Enjoy a variety of drinks, plus a sandwich, granola bar, chips, and fruit.
• Limited by schedule: It’s tailored for cruise guests, and timing depends on your ship’s arrival, so flexibility can be limited.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off promptly at 9:00 am from a meeting point just a few steps from the Costa Maya port. This is a smart setup, as it minimizes the walking from the ship — about 15 minutes to reach the meeting spot. The roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort on the roughly 15-minute ride to Bacalar.

Given the tour’s duration of about 5.5 hours, it’s a well-paced outing, balancing sightseeing, boat time, and some restful moments. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you ample time to explore on your own afterward or head back to your ship.

San Felipe Fort: A Quick History and Viewpoint

The visit to San Felipe Fort offers a brief but rewarding glimpse into local history. Built by the Spanish, it served as a lookout and defense point, and today it provides spectacular views of Bacalar lagoon. For just $5, it’s worth the small added fee to stand amid history and take in the sweeping scenery.

The Boat Ride: Exploring Bacalar’s Hidden Gems

Once aboard the boat, the adventure begins. The first stop is Cenote la Bruja, a stunning cenote with clear waters and impressive underwater formations. You’ll have a chance to swim here, which most travelers find refreshing and memorable. The water’s transparency makes it perfect for photos and snorkelers eager to observe underwater geology.

Next, the boat moves to Pirate’s Channel, a narrow, story-rich waterway. Historically, pirates sailed these waters, and legends of buried treasure still linger. As your guide shares tales of pirates and hidden riches, you’ll cruise through a narrow stretch of water that’s both scenic and steeped in local lore. Several reviews mention the intriguing stories and fantastic scenery, making this cruise a highlight.

The tour then continues to Cocalitos, known for its white sandy bottom and turquoise waters — perfect for another swim or snorkel. The calmness and clarity of these cenotes create a peaceful environment, and many find these stops to be the most visually stunning part of the trip.

The Natural Beauty and Lagoon Experience

Throughout the entire trip, you’ll be treated to views of Bacalar’s famous lagoon, often called the Lake of the Seven Colors. The changing shades of blue and green as the sunlight hits different depths make for a truly photogenic landscape. The tour focuses not just on sights but on appreciating the serenity of this natural wonder.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer expressed that they appreciated the stunning views but also noted that the tour didn’t go on due to delays, emphasizing the importance of timing. Another highlighted the beautiful underwater sights at Cenote la Bruja and the stories about pirates, which added a layer of interest to the boat ride. The inclusion of snacks and drinks also keeps the experience light and enjoyable, especially after a morning of exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for cruise passengers looking for an efficient, scenic, and culturally enriching activity. If you enjoy natural beauty and a touch of history, you’ll find this tour satisfying. It also suits those who prefer a guided experience with transportation included, saving you the hassle of logistics. However, if your schedule is tight or uncertain, confirm your cruise’s docking time, as delays could impact your experience.

The Sum Up

The Bacalar Fort and Blue Lagoon Boat Ride Combo combines the natural splendor of one of Mexico’s most stunning lagoons with brief but meaningful historical stops and storytelling. It offers a beautiful escape from the cruise port, especially with its scenic boat ride through Pirate’s Channel and visits to the cenotes—highlighting both natural and cultural elements of Bacalar.

While it may not be perfect for those seeking a full day of activity or extensive historical exploration, it delivers a solid overview of Bacalar’s highlights for a reasonable price. It’s especially suited for travelers who love picturesque views, tranquil waters, and stories of pirates and explorers.

If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging adventure that captures the essence of Bacalar’s natural beauty, this tour is a good choice — just keep an eye on the schedule to make sure it fits with your cruise plans.

FAQ

Does this tour include transportation from Costa Maya port?
Yes, it includes roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to get to Bacalar without extra hassle.

How long is the boat ride?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the entire tour lasts about 5.5 hours, including stops and transport, so the boat ride is a significant part of that.

Are there opportunities to swim during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have time to swim at Cenote la Bruja, Pirate’s Channel, and Cocalitos cenote, making this a refreshing experience.

Is there an entrance fee to San Felipe Fort?
Yes, the fee is $5 per person, payable on-site, and is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera if you want to capture the scenery. The tour provides snacks and drinks, but you may want extra water or personal items.

Can I book this tour if I arrive late?
Likely not, as the tour departs about an hour after your cruise arrives. Confirm your ship’s docking time to ensure you don’t miss out.

This well-rounded tour offers a taste of Bacalar’s natural brilliance and historical charm, perfect for those wanting an authentic and scenic day on the water.