BACALAR Lagoon BOAT TOUR from Costa Maya with Lunch

If you’re visiting Costa Maya and looking for a way to experience one of Mexico’s most breathtaking sights, the Bacalar Lagoon Boat Tour might be just what you need. Designed to give travelers a balanced mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and local flavor, this tour offers a convenient way to see Bacalar’s famous “7-color lagoon” without the hassle of planning everything solo.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines private boat cruising—away from the crowds—with the chance to swim in incredibly clear waters, all wrapped up with a delicious seafood lunch. It’s a solid choice if you want a relaxed day that offers both scenery and authentic local eats. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the travel time—about an hour and a half each way—which can feel long if you’re eager to stay close to the port. Still, if you enjoy scenic drives and a bit of adventure, this tour suits most travelers looking for a memorable escape from the cruise port.

This experience tends to be well-suited for those who appreciate small-group tours, want a balance of activity and downtime, and value good food and friendly guides. Families with older kids or groups who love scenic vistas and water activities are likely to find this trip very appealing.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and unique lagoon colors make for great photo opportunities
• Private boat ensures a peaceful experience away from crowds
• Delicious seafood tacos and refreshments bring local flavors to the day
• Round-trip transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle simplifies logistics
• Flexible options for non-seafood eaters make it accessible for everyone
• Good balance of activity and relaxation makes it suitable for a variety of travelers

What to Expect on the Tour

This 6-hour adventure starts right outside the Costa Maya cruise port, where you’ll be picked up in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to Bacalar is around an hour and a half, giving you a window to enjoy the scenery and perhaps chat with your fellow travelers or guides. Once you arrive at the marina, it’s all about the water—boarding a private boat that takes you out onto the lagoon.

Exploring Bacalar Lagoon

The highlight is cruising across the famous lagoon, often called the “7-color lagoon” because of its stunning, shifting shades of blue. Your guide or captain will take you to swim in the clear waters—the water is calm and perfect for relaxing or taking pictures of the vivid hues. The boat crew are attentive, and many reviews praise their friendliness and knowledge.

One reviewer mentioned how the boat captain and guide made the trip special by sharing interesting facts about Bacalar’s ecosystem and maintaining a friendly vibe. During the boat ride, you’ll enjoy a fresh fruit snack prepared by the crew—a healthy, hydrating treat that fits perfectly with the laid-back atmosphere.

Swimming and Photos

Expect plenty of time to splash in the lagoon, relax on the boat, and snap photos of the storybook-like scenery. The different shades of blue are genuinely mesmerizing, and many guests say the views are even better than pictures can capture. The water tends to be cool but refreshing, especially if the weather is warm.

Lunch at El Taco Loco Bacalar

After the boat tour, you’ll head to a local restaurant famous for its seafood tacos. The reviews highlight how tasty and authentic the dishes are, with a good mix of non-seafood options available. The lunch is a nice way to round off the day with hearty, flavorful food in a friendly setting. Many reviewers appreciated the quality of the food and the casual atmosphere.

The Experience: What Works Well

One of the biggest perks is the small-group setting. It feels intimate and personalized, much appreciated by travelers who dislike large, crowded tours. The guides and crew are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge; many reviews mention how they went above and beyond to make the day special.

Another strong point is the value for money. At $139 per person, you get several key components: round-trip transport, a private boat cruise, snacks, beverages, and lunch. Considering the cost of similar tours elsewhere, this package offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially since the lunch includes seafood tacos, which are often a highlight.

The scenery itself is undoubtedly the star. Bacalar’s lagoon is a photographer’s dream, with its shifting colors and tranquil waters. Many reviews echo this sentiment, describing the lagoon as “paradise” and noting that the views are breathless.

What Could Be Better

While most aspects of the tour are praised, some travelers have noted longer-than-expected travel times. The drive from Costa Maya is around 1.5 hours, which might be a bit much if you’re short on time or not keen on long bus rides. Also, a few reviews highlight occasional issues with timing, such as delays in returning to the port, which can be stressful if you have a tight ship schedule – a problem exacerbated if the bus gets stuck in traffic, especially with ongoing roadworks.

One traveler shared a less positive experience, where they waited in a dusty parking lot for over two hours because the guide did not show up. This kind of mishap underscores the importance of booking reputable providers and confirming your arrangements ahead of time.

Is this Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy scenic water landscapes, friendly guides, and good local food, this trip is likely to satisfy. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate small-group settings and value comfort during transportation. The inclusion of a private boat and the opportunity to swim in one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons makes this a memorable day.

However, if you’re on a very tight schedule or dislike longer drives, you might find the travel time a bit taxing. Also, if you’re someone who thrives on snorkeling or more active water sports, this tour might not fully meet those expectations, as the focus is more on relaxing in the lagoon and enjoying the scenery.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Costa Maya to Bacalar?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a bit of a journey. The scenic drive is enjoyable, but it does add to the overall length of the day.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a private boat cruise, snacks, alcoholic beverages (beer and tequila), soda, bottled water, and a lunch of seafood tacos at a local restaurant.

Can I get non-seafood lunch options?
Yes, the restaurant offers alternatives if you prefer not to have seafood. Many reviews mention the tasty and authentic flavor of the tacos, regardless of the seafood option.

Is swimming in the lagoon safe?
Yes, the lagoon’s waters are calm, clear, and ideal for swimming. Many travelers enjoyed splashing around and taking photos in the tranquil water.

What is the group size limit?
The tour generally operates with a maximum of 99 travelers, but it’s geared toward small groups, making the experience more intimate and less crowded.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour primarily suits those comfortable with water activities and longer drives. Family-friendly details aren’t specified, but older children and teenagers would likely enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. A towel and a light cover-up for the boat are also handy. Remember to stay hydrated, especially in warm weather.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar Lagoon boat tour provides a well-rounded experience—stunning scenery, friendly guides, and delicious local food all in a convenient package. The private boat offers a peaceful way to enjoy the lagoon’s changing shades of blue, making it perfect for those who want a relaxing yet memorable day.

It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of a journey and appreciate smaller groups and personal attention. If you’re after a day of water, nature, and good eats, this trip delivers on all fronts. Just keep an eye on the timings and confirm your arrangements to avoid surprises.

Overall, it’s a lovely way to see Bacalar if you’re visiting Costa Maya, especially if you value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of adventure in your day.