BACALAR LAGOON PRIVATE SAILING TOUR OPEN BAR WITH PICK UP

When you think of a day in Quintana Roo, most travelers picture the lively beaches of Cancun or Tulum. But if you’re after something quieter, deeply scenic, and packed with authentic charm, a private sailing tour on Bacalar Lagoon might just be your ideal choice. This 1-day experience, offered by BacalaXplore, combines crystal-clear waters, hidden spots like the Pirate Channel and Bird Island, and the chance to relax with an open bar and tropical snacks.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on small-group exclusivity—you won’t be crammed onto a crowded boat—and the opportunity to capture stunning images with a professional photographer included. We also appreciate the flexibility of options, from a quick 3-hour trip to an extended 4-hour exploration, tailored to what you want most out of your time on the lagoon.

A potential consideration is the need for timely pickup and drop-off, as punctuality is essential. If you’re someone who values a relaxed, unhurried pace, or plans to focus on photography, this tour offers a wonderful, authentic way to experience Bacalar’s beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy customized experiences, scenic sailing, and learning about local history and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Small group, personalized attention, and flexible timing.
• Scenic Stops: Cenotes, Bird Island, Pirate Channel—each with its unique charm.
• Photography Option: Professional photographer to help you capture your memories.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share stories about Bacalar’s history, wildlife, and local legends.
• All-Inclusive: Open bar with tropical fruits, guacamole, water games, snorkeling masks.
• Ease & Comfort: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, with optional van service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Bacalar Lagoon Private Sailing Tour

The Experience Starts with Convenience

From the moment you book, you realize this tour values your time and comfort. Pickup is included, with the driver waiting outside your hotel or accommodation, and the entire process is straightforward. The van ride to the boat dock takes about 20 minutes, giving you a pleasant preview of the scenic surroundings. Knowing that pickup is included and flexible helps travelers who prefer an organized, stress-free start to their day.

The Boats and Guides: Skilled, Friendly, Multilingual

BacalaXplore offers beautiful sailboats like La Cata and Phoenix, designed for comfort and style. The guides, fluent in Spanish, English, and French, are enthusiastic and knowledgeable. They’ll tell you stories about the lagoon’s history—such as its pirate past—and point out wildlife, making the experience as educational as it is relaxing.

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Mix of Relaxation and Discovery

Depending on your chosen duration, your day unfolds differently but always thoughtfully. The 3-hour tour offers a quick but satisfying taste: visiting the cenotes—clear freshwater sinkholes perfect for swimming and snorkeling—exploring Bird Island, and drifting along the Pirate Channel. The extended 4-hour tour allows you more time to linger at these spots, snorkeling or simply soaking up the tranquility. The photography tour adds a professional touch, ensuring you leave with gallery-worthy images.

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Highlighting the Stops

Cenotes: These natural sinkholes are often the most surprising feature of Bacalar. Crystal-clear, freshwater, and inviting, they are ideal for a quick swim or snorkel. As one reviewer put it, the cenotes offer “magical silence underwater,” adding a peaceful dimension to your trip.

Pirate Channel: Once used by pirates, this quiet waterway is now a scenic highlight. Navigating its calm waters gives you a sense of adventure and history, with lush scenery lining the banks.

Bird Island: A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, this island offers a chance to see local wildlife in a peaceful setting. Travelers love the views here, with one comment describing it as “quiet beauty and wildlife encounters.”

The Food and Drinks: Authentic and Refreshing

Throughout the tour, you’ll be offered an open bar featuring cold beers, tropical fruits, guacamole, and snacks—perfect for unwinding as you soak in the views. Many reviews highlight how the refreshments enhance the experience, transforming a boat trip into a true feast for the senses.

Snorkeling and Water Games

On board, snorkeling masks are ready for underwater exploration, allowing you to enjoy the silence and clarity of Bacalar’s waters. Water games are also available, making it fun for everyone, especially families with children or friends seeking a lively experience.

Professional Photography: Making Memories Last

For an extra fee, you can have a professional photographer and videographer accompany you. This is a standout feature praised by travelers for its value—being able to capture aerial drone shots and underwater images without the hassle of doing it yourself. One reviewer shared, “Mehran, the photographer, helped me create content for Instagram, and the photos were truly outstanding.” This option is perfect for those wanting high-quality, lasting memories of their trip.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

Given the inclusions—guided tours, open bar, tropical snacks, optional professional photography, and hotel pickup—the price seems very reasonable. Many travelers comment on the good value for money, especially considering the personalized experience and the chance to explore hidden corners of Bacalar that larger tours rarely visit.

What Are the Downsides?

The main consideration is the timing and punctuality required for pickup, especially if you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb further from the dock. Also, the tours are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo, which is typical for boat-based excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic sailing, authentic local stories, and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings. If photography is your passion or you want a private, customizable adventure, this tour ticks all boxes.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This private Bacalar Lagoon tour offers a balanced blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural insight. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery create a memorable day, especially for those who appreciate a more personalized touch. The option to include a professional photographer adds a touch of luxury, perfect for travelers who want to capture their memories in style.

If you’re looking for an authentic, less-touristy way to experience Bacalar’s famed Seven Colors lagoon, this tour is a strong choice. It suits travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and good value, and who want to see the lagoon’s best secrets without the crowds.

Final recommendation

This tour is especially suited for those who want to learn about Bacalar’s history, enjoy beautiful scenic stops, and indulge in tropical drinks while sailing in peaceful waters. If you’re after a professional photo to remember your trip by, or simply want a flexible, private experience tailored to your pace, this is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a smooth start and end to your day.

How long does the tour last?
Tours last between three and four hours, depending on the option you choose.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Snorkeling masks are provided so you can explore the underwater world of Bacalar.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, waterproof camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.

Are meals included?
Not a full meal, but the tour offers tropical fruits, guacamole, and snacks, plus drinks from the open bar.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they enjoy water activities; water games are available for kids.

Can I book the photography option separately?
The professional photography service is part of certain tour options; check availability when booking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to adapt your plans.

This private Bacalar Lagoon sailing tour offers an inviting mix of nature, culture, and comfort. Whether your goal is to relax, take stunning photos, or learn about local stories, it provides a thoughtful way to enjoy one of Mexico’s most captivating water landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby