Catamaran Adventure: Sailing and Swimming in the Bacalar Lagoon

Bacalar, Mexico, offers one of the most captivating spots in the Caribbean, famed for its seven shades of blue in the lagoon. For those seeking a relaxed yet memorable way to enjoy this natural wonder, the 3-hour catamaran tour available through DayTour Bacalar is a fantastic option. For $55 per person, you get an intimate cruise that combines beautiful scenery, swimming opportunities, and a lively atmosphere.

What sets this tour apart? First, we love how comfortable the boat is — a bigger, more stable vessel compared to smaller boats, which makes the ride even more enjoyable. Second, the knowledgeable guides share engaging stories about the history, flora, and fauna of Bacalar, enriching the experience beyond just a pretty view. That said, one minor consideration is the drive from the cruise port—about an hour and twenty minutes—so it’s not the quickest option if you’re pressed for time.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, a relaxed pace, and social atmosphere. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, fun way to see Bacalar’s lagoon will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery with seven shades of blue in Bacalar lagoon.
• Comfortable catamaran with space for up to 20 travelers.
• Inclusive drinks and snacks enhance the leisurely vibe.
• Guides provide interesting insights into local flora, fauna, and history.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for those seeking a laid-back, scenic experience with friends or family.

Discovering Bacalar’s Lagoon on a Catamaran

Bacalar, often called the “Lake of Seven Colors,” is a natural jewel in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Unlike the busy beaches of the Caribbean, Bacalar’s lagoon offers calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. This catamaran tour provides the perfect way to experience its beauty without strenuous effort, making it a favorite among travelers looking for a chill yet engaging outing.

At roughly $55 per person and lasting about 3 hours, this excursion strikes a good balance between affordability and a comprehensive experience. We particularly appreciate that it’s suitable for most travelers, with most participating comfortably and a maximum group size of 20, ensuring a personal touch.

Why We Like This Experience

Two aspects stand out. First, the vessel itself — a large, comfortable catamaran that offers stable, smooth sailing. Many reviews mention how roomy and comfortable the boat is, which makes lounging, sightseeing, or snapping photos a pleasure. Second, the informative guides — such as Cata and Hugo — go beyond just pointing out sights. They share interesting stories and details about the lagoon’s environment, history, and local ecosystem, greatly enriching the trip.

A Small Consideration

One thing to keep in mind is travel time from the cruise port—about 1 hour and 20 minutes. For some travelers, especially those on tight schedules, this might be a bit long. However, if your priority is experiencing the lagoon in a relaxed, scenic setting, it’s a small price to pay for the views and atmosphere.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous families, couples, and solo travelers who value authentic scenery and leisurely exploration. If you want a fun, social outing where you can swim in warm waters, enjoy drinks, and take beautiful photographs, this tour delivers.

Detailed Overview of the Itinerary

While the tour’s specific stops aren’t exhaustively listed, it’s clear the main focus is the Bacalar lagoon itself—its seven distinct shades of blue. The guide will lead you along the calm waters, pointing out highlights and sharing stories about the area’s flora and fauna.

Expect to sail along the entire lagoon for about 3 hours, with frequent opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters. One review mentions that even when the wind is light, switching to a pontoon boat still results in a great experience, so weather shouldn’t be a major concern unless it’s very stormy.

The Boat and the Atmosphere

The catamaran is well-equipped, providing refreshing drinks like natural fruit juices, bottled water, and three beers per person—a nice touch for relaxing and socializing. Snacks such as seasonal fruit are included, adding to the casual, picnic-like vibe.

Music accompanies the sail, creating a festive, chilled-out atmosphere. You’ll find that many guests enjoy the chance to capture enviable photos of the lagoon’s shifting colors, with the boat offering great vantage points.

Interacting with Guides and Other Travelers

Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff. From one review: “Pruebé el vodka con arándanos de la barra libre!!” indicating that the drinks are not only plentiful but also fun. The guides, like Cata and Hugo, make a point of engaging travelers and ensuring everyone has a memorable time.

Food and Drinks

While the drinks are included, you might want to bring your own camera, sunglasses, or hat. The natural fruit drinks and bottled water keep you hydrated, and the alcoholic drinks are strictly for adults, which is standard. The snacks are simple but fresh, perfect for a light refreshment.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, good value, and a relaxed vibe makes this tour a standout for anyone wanting to see Bacalar’s lagoon without rushing. The reviews show consistent satisfaction, with many guests describing it as “beautiful,” “worth the trip,” and “a great activity” to enjoy in Bacalar.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience with some swimming, socializing, and excellent photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy Bacalar’s natural beauty with minimal hassle. Those who appreciate informative guides and a lively atmosphere will find this especially rewarding.

It’s less suited for travelers wanting adventure or strenuous activity or those short on time, given the drive from port. But if a relaxing, picturesque cruise aligns with your vacation goals, this is a top choice.

FAQs

How long is this tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the lagoon without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get snacks like seasonal fruit, bottled water, natural fruit drinks, and three beers per person. The tour is designed to be casual and social.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviewers highlight the boat’s size and comfort, which makes the experience more pleasant, especially for longer cruises.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour visits the best spots in the lagoon where you can swim in the warm, clear waters.

What about the group size?
The maximum is 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate environment.

How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this catamaran tour in Bacalar offers a delightful way to experience the lagoon’s stunning colors and tranquil waters. With a good mix of scenic beauty, informative guides, and social atmosphere, it’s a great option for those who prioritize relaxation, scenery, and a bit of fun.

While it involves a bit of travel from the port, most guests find the journey worthwhile for the chance to swim in some of the Caribbean’s most captivating waters. The value for money is clear, given the included drinks, snacks, and the overall experience.

Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or family, this tour promises a relaxed, authentic taste of Bacalar’s natural charm — a memorable highlight of your trip to Mexico.