Bacalar Private Catamaran Lunch and Drinks from Costa Maya

If you’re headed to the Caribbean coast of Mexico and want to escape the cruise ship crowds for a day, a private catamaran tour to Bacalar Lagoon offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and authentic local flavor. Priced at $190 per person, this 5-hour experience takes you from Costa Maya to one of Mexico’s most breathtaking sights, where the water shifts through seven shades of blue—a color palette that’s as mesmerizing as it sounds.

What we love about this tour is its intimate setting—a private journey that ensures plenty of personal attention, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a serene escape. The spectacular lagoon views are truly unforgettable, and the included lunch of authentic Mexican tacos along with drinks elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to a full-day indulgence.

One aspect to consider is the travel time, with approximately two hours of driving round trip. While this means some time on the road, it also ensures you get to savor Bacalar’s stunning scenery without feeling rushed. This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, comfortable small-group settings, and a balance of activity and relaxation.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The turquoise waters of Bacalar Lagoon with its seven shades of blue are a highlight.
• Private Experience: The tour’s private catamaran ensures comfort and personalized service.
• Authentic Food & Drinks: Enjoy Mexican tacos and a variety of beverages, including beer, tequila, juice, sodas, and water.
• All-Inclusive Value: Snacks, drinks, life jackets, and insurance are included in the price.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transport from Costa Maya simplifies logistics.
• Flexible & Refundable: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Private Catamaran Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins right outside the Costa Maya cruise port at Delisuper Costa Maya. The round-trip transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, a comfort after the warm Caribbean sun, and takes about an hour each way. The convenience of this door-to-door service means you won’t need to worry about taxis or finding your own transportation—just meet your guide, usually holding a sign with your name, and relax on the journey.

The drive offers a chance to see some of the lush surroundings of Quintana Roo, giving you a taste of the region’s vibrant landscape before reaching Bacalar. We appreciated the smooth transfer, which sets a comfortable tone for the day.

The Lagoon Experience

Once at Bacalar, the real highlight begins. You’ll board a private catamaran—a vessel perfect for relaxing and enjoying panoramic views. The crew is described as attentive, ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe with life jackets provided. As the boat glides out onto the lagoon, you’ll be treated to the remarkable seven shades of blue water, which change with the depth, sunlight, and the angle of view.

The guided tour lasts around two hours, during which you’ll see some of the most spectacular spots in the lagoon. The calm, clear waters make for excellent splashing and swimming, and the crew often prepares a delicious, healthy fruit snack for everyone to enjoy while taking in the scenery.

Why the Lagoon Is Special

Bacalar’s water is famously multi-hued, with some parts nearly transparent and others a deep navy. The tour guides will explain why the lagoon’s colors shift so dramatically—it’s due to differences in depth, sediment, and sunlight. The water is so clear you might find yourself hesitating before stepping in, marveling at how pristine and inviting it looks.

Travelers who have visited rave about the “breathtaking views” and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for unwinding. One guest noted, “The water’s seven shades of blue are even more stunning in person,” and that’s a feeling many share.

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Lunch and Local Flavors

After the boat tour, you’ll visit a favorite local restaurant for a tasty Mexican taco lunch—pork, beef, or shrimp—served with fresh guacamole. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, which shows their flexibility and consideration. The meal is straightforward but flavorful, giving you a chance to taste authentic Mexican street food in a relaxed setting.

The inclusion of drinks like beer, tequila, juice, sodas, and water adds to the festive feel, and the fruit and snacks on the boat are a nice touch to keep everyone energized. The overall value feels good considering the comprehensive experience—transport, boat, food, drinks, and insurance are all included.

The Return Journey

After a leisurely lunch and some final views of Bacalar, the bus departs for the return trip, which takes about 75 minutes. The schedule ensures you’ll be back at port with plenty of time before your ship’s departure, though it’s advisable to confirm the timing, especially if you have a tight schedule.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty without the hassle of organizing individual arrangements. It’s suitable for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who value an intimate, relaxed environment. It also appeals to those interested in authentic Mexican cuisine and a scenic day on the water, away from crowded tourist spots.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sun protection: sunglasses, a sun hat, and biodegradable sunscreen are essential since you’ll be outdoors most of the time.
• Wear swimwear and bring a towel: the lagoon invites swimming and splashing.
• Cash: might be handy for tipping or additional purchases, even though most essentials are included.
• Flexible schedule: the tour can be offered in the morning or afternoon, so coordinate with your cruise schedule.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after a relaxed day immersed in stunning scenery, this private Bacalar Lagoon trip offers excellent value. The clear, colorful waters, combined with a comfortable boat and delicious local food, make for a memorable outing. It’s especially ideal if you prefer an exclusive experience over large group tours, and appreciate the chance to sample authentic Mexican tacos in a scenic setting.

The only real consideration is the travel time—about two hours each way—so if you’re short on time or prefer to stay closer to Costa Maya, this might not be the best choice. However, for those wanting a full immersion in one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural spots, the effort is well rewarded.

This tour balances adventure, luxury, and local flavor—a true highlight for anyone curious about the natural beauty of Quintana Roo but seeking a more personal, less crowded experience.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private catamaran ride, snacks, drinks (beer, tequila, juice, sodas, water), a taco lunch (pork, beef, or shrimp), life jackets, a bilingual guide, transportation round trip from Costa Maya, and insurance.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is about 5 hours, including transportation, the lagoon tour, lunch, and the return trip.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet at Delisuper Costa Maya, after disembarking the cruise ship, walking through the terminal to the main street, and looking for a guide holding a sign with your name.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is described as wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and some cash for tips or extras.

Is there vegetarian or vegan food available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request for the taco lunch.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, accommodating diverse travelers.

To sum it up, this Bacalar private catamaran tour from Costa Maya offers an authentic, scenic, and personalized way to experience one of Mexico’s most stunning natural wonders. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed, intimate adventure with authentic local flavors, and a chance to see the famous seven shades of blue in person. If you value comfort, natural beauty, and a taste of local cuisine—this trip will leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: