Private sailboat tour across the Bacalar seven colors lagoon

Imagine gliding across a lagoon famed for its stunning seven shades of blue, with only your small group and a knowledgeable guide. For a $191 fee, you’ll spend three hours exploring Bacalar’s highlights aboard a private sailboat designed for up to four people. The tour promises a relaxed, eco-friendly way to discover the lagoon’s most photogenic spots, with a focus on sustainability and authentic experiences.

What really draws us in is the chance to sail “by the force of nature,” feeling genuinely connected to Bacalar’s natural beauty. We also appreciate that it’s a small-group experience, limited to eight participants at most — perfect for a more intimate and flexible adventure. The fact that water, fruit, and two beers are included adds a nice touch of comfort, especially after swimming or lounging on deck.

One thing to keep in mind is the no sunscreen policy — a smart move to protect the lagoon’s delicate waters, but travelers should bring their sun protection beforehand. This experience works best for those comfortable in water and not pregnant or with mobility issues. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for families, friends, or couples seeking a leisurely, authentic way to explore Bacalar’s natural treasures.

Key Points

• Sustainable sailing: Enjoy the lagoon with minimal environmental impact.
• Highlights: Visit pirate channel, bird island, cenotes, and swim in turquoise waters.
• All-inclusive: Water, fruit, and two beers are included for a relaxed experience.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Duration and flexibility: Three-hour tours available in the morning and afternoon.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An authentic way to explore Bacalar’s Lagoon

We loved the feeling of gliding smoothly across Bacalar’s seven-colored waters, thanks to the smooth sailing style of this private tour. For three hours, you get to see the most captivating spots in the lagoon, including the sometimes-mysterious Pirate Channel, the bird-filled Isla de las Aves, and the shimmering cenotes. It’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and storytelling, offering a genuine taste of the lagoon’s charm.

The private nature of the tour means it’s just your group and the guide, which makes for a more relaxed, personalized experience. The guide, speaking Spanish, shares engaging stories and anecdotes, making each stop not just visually interesting but also culturally meaningful. We found the crystal-clear waters irresistible for a swim — the turquoise hues are even more striking in person than in photos.

The eco-conscious approach is notable. Traveling by sailboat means you’re reducing your carbon footprint compared to larger motorized boats, and the visit to spots like the Cenotes adds an adventurous, refreshing element to the day. Plus, the inclusion of water, fruit, and beers keeps everyone refreshed without the excess often found in larger tours.

What’s included and meeting details

Your meeting point is at the Marina Laguna Adventures, located inside the “Agua Dulce” Beach Club. This spot is easy to find and offers a relaxed atmosphere to start your adventure. The tour includes two beers, water, and fresh fruit, perfect for sipping and snacking while lounging on deck or taking a dip.

The tours usually run in the morning and afternoon, giving you flexibility around your plans. With small groups of up to eight people, everyone gets more attention from the guide and can ask questions or request specific stops. Be sure to bring beachwear, as you’ll want to swim and stay comfortable, but remember sunscreen is not allowed on the boat to protect the waters and marine life.

The itinerary: what you’ll see and do

Discovering why Bacalar’s lagoon is called the ‘seven colors’ is a highlight. Your guide will point out the different hues and explain how the mineral composition creates this natural masterpiece. The cruise begins with a sail across the lagoon, gradually heading toward the Pirate Channel (Canal de los Piratas) — a narrow, scenic passage historically used by pirates and now a favorite photo spot.

Next, you might visit Bird Island (Isla de las Aves), home to numerous bird species, where the tranquil environment offers a peaceful break from the boat. The tour’s real adventure kicks off when you stop at cenotes — underwater sinkholes that are perfect for a refreshing swim. The crystal-clear waters make these cenotes especially inviting, and the natural surroundings often surprise travelers with their peacefulness and beauty.

Throughout the trip, your guide will share stories about Bacalar’s history and myths, adding depth to each stop. The storytelling is engaging but not overwhelming — a perfect balance for a relaxed day. You’ll love the way the guide’s anecdotes bring the lagoon’s history and ecology alive, making it a meaningful experience rather than just a sightseeing cruise.

Swim in turquoise waters is a recurring theme, and many travelers comment on how the water’s clarity and vibrant hues are even more impressive in person. The calm waters and gentle breeze make for a serene experience, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural environment.

The value of this experience

At $191 per group, this private tour offers exceptional value considering the personalized attention, exclusive access to some of Bacalar’s most iconic sites, and the inclusion of drinks and fruit. Larger group tours tend to be less intimate and sometimes less flexible; here, you get to customize your experience slightly and enjoy a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Compared to other options, such as group sails or motorized boat tours with open bars, this sailboat trip feels more authentic and eco-friendly. It’s clear the focus is on sustainable tourism and enjoying the lagoon without the crowd or excess.

You’ll find that the 3-hour duration hits the sweet spot — enough time to see several spots without feeling rushed, yet not so long that it becomes tiring. The flexibility of morning or afternoon departures allows you to fit this adventure into your schedule comfortably.

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Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value authentic, eco-conscious travel and want a more intimate, relaxed experience. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a memorable day on the water. Since it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments, it’s best for active, water-loving guests comfortable in the lagoon environment. If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic journey with local stories and a touch of adventure, this tour will satisfy.

Final thoughts

This private sailboat tour across Bacalar’s famed lagoon offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and sustainable travel. The small-group setting ensures a personalized, relaxed experience, while the boat’s slow pace highlights the lagoon’s stunning seven shades of blue. The stops at pirate channel, cenotes, and bird island give you a well-rounded taste of what makes Bacalar special.

While the no-sunscreen rule requires a bit of planning, it’s a thoughtful way to protect this delicate environment. And the inclusion of refreshments helps keep everyone comfortable during the trip. For anyone eager to enjoy Bacalar from a different perspective — away from crowds and in harmony with nature — this sailboat adventure promises a memorable, authentic slice of paradise.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be suitable for families, especially if children are comfortable in water and enjoy boat rides. Just keep in mind that the tour is typically for small groups and requires some water activity.

What should I bring with me?
Bring beachwear, a towel, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. Remember, sunscreen is not allowed on the boat, so plan to apply it beforehand if needed. You might also want waterproof camera or phone cases to capture the scenery.

How long is the tour?
The typical duration is three hours, which is usually enough to see several key spots and enjoy swimming without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the guide bilingual?
The guide speaks Spanish, so some language skills would help you catch all the stories and anecdotes, but the experience is mostly visual and experiential.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, water, fruit, and two beers are included to keep you refreshed during the cruise.

In all, this private sailboat tour embodies a gentle, authentic way to connect with Bacalar’s natural splendor. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a peaceful, eco-minded experience that highlights the lagoon’s unique beauty while avoiding the crowds and noise of larger tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: