Pontoon Private Tour of the Seven Colors Lagoon

Experience the Beauty of Bacalar’s Seven-Colors Lagoon on a Private Pontoon Tour

Imagine cruising across Bacalar’s famous lagoon in your own private boat, choosing where to stop, swim, and relax — all with a laid-back atmosphere and personalized touches. For about $125 per person, this Pontoon Private Tour takes you through the lagoon’s most captivating sights in a flexible, intimate setting. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with pickup included, making it a convenient and comfortable way to explore this natural wonder.

What we love most about this experience is how customizable it is — you can tailor the stops, music, and pace to suit your mood, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a peaceful day on the water. Plus, the stops at Cenote Negro, Cenote Esmeralda, and Cenote Cocalitos offer unique natural spectacles, from dark, deep waters to vivid green mineral pools, all free of charge. The exclusive access to certain areas and the option to swim in shallow waters make it a truly versatile outing.

A potential consideration is that snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if you’re eager to snorkel, you’ll need to bring or rent gear separately. Also, while the tour is private, keep in mind that the exact route and timings can be tailored, but that might mean some stops are more or less extended depending on your wishes.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value flexibility, local authenticity, and scenic comfort. If you’re traveling with a group or celebrating an occasion, the ability to customize your experience makes this a great choice. It’s also ideal for those who want a relaxed, intimate way to enjoy Bacalar’s stunning waters without feeling rushed or crowded.

Key Points

• Customizable experience: You can choose your stops, music, and timing to match your preferences.
• Natural highlights: Stops include cenotes, bird islands, and the Pirate Canal, offering diverse scenery.
• Inclusive drinks and snacks: Beer, tequila, fruit, and water are included, adding to the relaxed vibe.
• Flexible schedule: The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, with pickup and drop-off included.
• Free admission to stops: No extra charges for visiting cenotes and islands.
• Private tour: Only your group participates, ensuring intimacy and tailored attention.

A Deep Dive into the Bacalar Lagoon Private Tour

What the Tour Covers and What Makes It Special

This pontoon tour offers a chance to see Bacalar’s seven-color lagoon from a comfortable and flexible vantage point. Starting at Papitos Bacalar, your private boat is yours for the duration, with the option to set your own pace. The tour is priced at about $125.69 per person, which, considering the private nature and inclusion of drinks and snacks, offers good value — especially for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences.

The boat trip includes six key stops, each with its own character and appeal. These are Cenote Negro, known for its deep, dark waters; Cenote Esmeralda, praised for its vivid green hue; and Cenote Cocalitos, which hosts ancient stromatolites and is called the “Sanctuary of the Stromatolites.” These stops are not only scenic but also allow you to swim and explore in shallow, protected waters.

Beyond the cenotes, you’ll visit Balneario Cocalitos, a shallow swimming area perfect for relaxing, and Isla de los Pájaros, a sanctuary teeming with local bird species like herons and cormorants. The Canal de los Piratas is a highlight, connecting the lagoon with the Río Hondo and echoing tales of privateers — a fun, historical touch that adds a layer of storytelling to your water adventure.

What We Like About the Tour

Two standout features stand out. First, the ability to customize the experience — you can select the order of stops, how long to stay, and even the playlist. This flexibility means we can craft a relaxing, party, or even romantic outing. The inclusion of snacks and drinks makes the experience more enjoyable, especially with seasonal fruit, beer, and tequila which add local flavor and fun.

Second, the natural variety of sights is impressive. From deep cenotes to bird-filled islands and historical canals, the landscape of Bacalar’s lagoon is diverse and photogenic. Several reviews mention the crystal-clear waters and the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding or snapping memorable photos.

Possible Drawbacks

One thing to keep in mind is that snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if you’re eager to explore underwater, you’ll need to bring your own or rent. Also, as the tour is customizable, there might be slight variations in how long each stop lasts, which could affect your overall experience if you have strict time constraints.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits travelers who value flexibility and privacy — ideal for groups, couples, or special celebrations. If you’re someone who enjoys personalized itineraries and relaxed exploration, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to craft your perfect day. It’s also great for those wanting an authentic local experience with a mix of natural beauty and cultural stories, especially around the Pirate Canal.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Cenote Negro

Known as the Witch Cenote, this spot is famous for its dark waters and impressive depth — over 100 meters! We loved the way its mysterious, almost otherworldly atmosphere makes it stand out. It’s a great starting point for an awe-inspiring photo or a quick swim to experience Bacalar’s contrast of colors and depths.

Stop 2: Cenote Esmeralda

Named for its striking emerald green water, this cenote is a vibrant splash of color that immediately catches your eye. The mineral content and groundwater mix create this dazzling hue. You might find yourself just gazing at the water, trying to capture that perfect shot or simply soaking in the serenity.

Stop 3: Cenote Cocalitos

This spot is not just a pretty face — it is also home to stromatolites, which are ancient microbial structures. Called the “Sanctuary of the Stromatolites,” it’s a rare natural phenomenon, and the shallow waters make it easy to observe these millennia-old formations up close. The shallow, crystal-clear water invites gentle swimming and exploration.

Stop 4: Balneario Cocalitos (Cocalitos Beachclub)

A longer stop here (about 30 minutes) offers a shallow, calm swimming area perfect for unwinding. This low-key spot is ideal for relaxing on the water’s edge, enjoying a cold drink, or just floating in the serenity. Several reviews highlight the peaceful, shallow waters as a highlight.

Stop 5: Isla de los Pájaros

Bird lovers will enjoy the Bird Island, a haven for herons, pink spatulas, and cormorants. The dense foliage and abundance of birdlife make this a natural sanctuary where you can observe wildlife in a peaceful setting. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that adds a dash of wildlife watching to your trip.

Stop 6: Canal de los Piratas

This natural canal is probably the most iconic part of Bacalar, connecting the lagoon with the Río Hondo. Its name references stories of privateers, adding a touch of lore and adventure. The 45-minute stop allows for photo opportunities and exploration of this historic-looking waterway.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The meeting point at Papitos Bacalar is easy to find, located along the Av. Costero Bacalar Sur. The tour includes pickup, making logistics straightforward. Since it’s a private activity, only your group will participate, allowing for a more relaxed and tailored experience.

Included in the price are alcoholic beverages like beer and tequila, seasonal fruit, and bottled water. This helps keep everyone refreshed without the need to carry extra supplies. However, snorkeling gear isn’t included, so bring your own if underwater exploration appeals to you.

The duration (~2.5 hours) strikes a good balance — enough time to see several highlights without feeling rushed. The flexibility allows you to customize the stops and how long you stay at each, which many reviews appreciate.

Additional Considerations

The tour operates year-round, with hours from early morning to late afternoon. If you’re traveling during the hotter months, a shaded hat and sunscreen are advisable, as you’ll be on the water most of the time. Since the tour is private, you can request specific times or stops, but do check with your guide beforehand to optimize your experience.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a personalized, relaxed way to discover Bacalar’s lagoon, this private pontoon tour hits the sweet spot. It suits couples, families, or small groups celebrating a special occasion because of its customizable nature. It’s particularly appealing if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy more intimate, flexible exploration.

Travelers who appreciate natural beauty, local stories, and flexible scheduling will find this tour a good fit. The inclusion of drinks, snacks, and the ability to choose your stops makes it an attractive option for those wanting to combine scenic sightseeing with some leisure and fun.

The Sum Up

This Pontoon Private Tour of the Seven Colors Lagoon offers a well-rounded, customizable way to experience Bacalar’s legendary waters. With its private boat, flexible stops, and inclusion of drinks and snacks, it provides a relaxed yet immersive experience. Whether celebrating, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the scenery, you’ll enjoy the variety of natural sights and tranquil waters.

This tour is especially suitable for travelers who want control over their day on the water and prefer a more personalized adventure. Its emphasis on natural beauty, comfortable pace, and local flavor makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic Bacalar experience without the rush of larger group tours.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a private boat, pickup, and drop-off, along with bottled water, seasonal fruit, beer, and tequila. The tour also includes visits to six natural stops, all free of extra charge.

Are snorkeling equipment and towels provided?
Snorkeling gear is not included, so you should bring your own if you want to snorkel. Towels are also not included, so pack one if you plan to swim.

How long does the tour last?
The scheduled duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops and schedule?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your preferences, including the order of stops and how long to stay at each location.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s private, it can be adapted for families. Always check with the guide about specific age restrictions or needs.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Papitos Bacalar: Marina, Cabañas & Restaurant on Avenida Costero Bacalar Sur.

Is this activity available year-round?
Yes, it operates from May 28, 2025, through October 6, 2026, with daily hours from early morning to late afternoon.

Are alcohol beverages included?
Yes, beer and tequila are included, making it a fun, relaxed outing.

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

Who is the experience provider?
The tour is offered by Bacalareando Tours Bacalar, a local operator experienced in tailored lagoon experiences.

This private pontoon tour of Bacalar’s lagoon strikes a great balance between scenic sightseeing and personal comfort. For travelers eager to explore at their own pace, enjoy natural beauty, and indulge in local drinks and snacks, it’s a compelling choice.