Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Tour with Open Bar and Mexican Lunch

Exploring Bacalar’s Lagoon on a Sailing Tour with Open Bar and Mexican Lunch

If you’re considering a day on Bacalar’s famous Lagoon of Seven Colors, a sailing tour could be just the ticket. This experience promises a relaxed yet adventurous outing, complete with stunning views, good food, and plenty of drinks. We’ve looked into what travelers love about it and what you should keep in mind before booking.

Two aspects that really stand out are the knowledgeable guides—who are praised for their friendliness and fluency in English—and the delicious food and drinks that keep the atmosphere lively and flavorful. However, one thing to consider is that you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which could be a bit of a hassle if you’re relying on public transit or staying outside central Bacalar.

This tour is well-suited for those who want to combine scenic sailing with a social vibe, especially if you’re traveling with friends or a group that appreciates good company, great views, and tasty snacks. It’s not the best pick if you’re looking for a highly active snorkeling experience or accessible options for wheelchairs, but for a laid-back day on the water, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Beautiful stops like Pirates Channel, Bird Island, and an abandoned hotel give you plenty of picturesque moments.
• All-inclusive drinks and a Mexican lunch add value to the experience, making it easy to relax without worrying about extra costs.
• Free time for swimming in the crystalline waters allows for a refreshing break.
• Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip both informative and fun.
• Group size tends to be comfortable, with reviews highlighting the right balance for socializing without feeling crowded.
• Transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Tour

From the moment you book, you’ll notice how well-organized this tour is, with the flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. Once you arrive at the meeting point—marked by the entrance to Balneario Sindicato Semarnat—you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew eager to start your adventure.

The tour lasts about five hours, usually in the afternoon, which is ideal for enjoying Bacalar’s lush scenery and warm sunlight. The boat itself is equipped with life jackets and offers plenty of space to relax, socialize, and enjoy the views.

The Itinerary: Highlights of the Day on the Water

Pirates Channel is often the first stop, and it’s the perfect introduction to Bacalar’s history and charm. This narrow waterway has a slightly mysterious vibe, with stories of pirates and explorers lurking beneath the surface. The guides usually share interesting tidbits, and many reviews mention how attentive and friendly the staff are—like Mireille from the Netherlands who said, “Amazing service, food, guides! Sailing trip was awesome. I highly recommend this tour!”

Next up is Bird Island, a gorgeous spot where you can hop off the boat for a swim or just relax on the deck with a drink in hand. The water here is turquoise and crystal-clear, inviting you to cool off. Reviewers like Nancy from the Netherlands appreciated the safety and care provided by guides Charlie and Omar, noting they made everything feel very secure.

The Abandoned Hotel adds a bit of intrigue to the journey, offering a glimpse into Bacalar’s past. It’s a great place for photography and imagining the stories that once unfolded there. Many travelers comment on the beauty of the lagoon—Sophie from the UK mentioned, “Stunning day on the water, the food and drinks were delicious.”

Free time for swimming is built into the trip, usually in the calm waters of the lagoon or at cenote spots with diverse colors and crystalline waters. You’ll love the way the water feels—refreshing and inviting after a few hours on the boat. As Fatimata from Germany put it, “The lagoon was absolutely beautiful, peaceful, and the water crystal clear.”

The Food, Drinks, and Vibe

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the all-you-can-drink open bar. You can sip tequila, national beer, juice, soda, or water as you take in the scenery. It’s a great way to loosen up and socialize, especially since the crew is attentive to refilling glasses and keeping everyone comfortable.

The Mexican lunch served at the end of the tour is another highlight. Many reviewers rave about how tasty and well-prepared the food was. Sophie from the UK mentioned, “The food was so tasty and drinks really were bottomless,” emphasizing how this adds real value to the overall experience.

Along With drinks and a Mexican snack, seasonal fruit and guacamole are included, providing a light, refreshing touch. Many guests appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere that makes it feel more like hanging out with friends than a formal tour.

The Crew and Guides

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to create a relaxed yet informative environment. Omar, Charlie, Amir, and Rommel are named multiple times as being particularly friendly and accommodating.

For example, Nancy from the Netherlands said, “Loved it! Both Charlie & Omar were great, the food was amazing, and I felt very safe and taken care of.” Such comments reinforce that the crew’s attitude adds significantly to the enjoyment, especially since they’re attentive to safety and comfort.

Amir, the main operator, is often mentioned in reviews for his fluency in English and his delicious food prep. His team’s hospitality, along with their storytelling about Bacalar’s sites, makes the trip memorable.

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Practical Details and Tips

Price-wise, at around $73 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the inclusive drinks, lunch, and the time spent on water. Travelers often mention that the quality of the guides, food, and the scenic stops justify the cost.

Transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan to arrive at the entrance of Balneario Sindicato Semarnat on your own. Many guests find it convenient to rent a bike or arrange a taxi, especially if staying outside town center.

What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, waterproof camera, comfortable clothes, waterproof bag, and snorkeling gear if you wish to explore underwater. The tour advises against sunscreen, insect repellent, and smoking during the trip—a good reminder to respect the environment and other guests.

Not suitable for: Wheelchair users, as accessibility might be limited on the boat and at certain stops.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxing day with fantastic scenery, friendly guides, and a social vibe, this Bacalar Lagoon sailing experience hits the right notes. The combination of scenic stops, swimming in the clear waters, and enjoying Mexican food and drinks makes for a memorable outing, especially if you enjoy a casual, convivial atmosphere.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the lagoon from a different perspective—on a boat, with plenty of time to relax and take photos. The included lunch and unlimited drinks add to the sense of value for money, making it a good choice for those who want a fuss-free, well-organized trip.

However, if you’re looking for a more active, snorkel-heavy adventure or need accessible options, you might want to explore other tours. But for a scenic, friendly, and enjoyable day on Bacalar, this sailing tour stands out as a top pick.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater, bring your own or rent locally before the tour.

Is transportation to the departure point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the entrance by Balneario Sindicato Semarnat.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, swimwear underneath, and bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and a towel for swimming breaks.

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

Is this tour suitable for children?
While many reviews mention families enjoying the experience, children should be comfortable on boats and in water. Not specifically marketed as family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 5 hours, generally in the afternoon, giving plenty of time to enjoy the stops and relax.

What’s included in the price?
All-you-can-drink open bar (tequila, beer, soda, juice, water), seasonal fruit, guacamole, Mexican snack, life jackets, guides, and parking fees.

Is the group size large?
Most reviews suggest a comfortable group size, not too crowded, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

To sum it up, this Bacalar Lagoon sailing tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, good food, and a lively atmosphere with friendly service. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy social settings, relaxing days on the water, and easygoing adventures. If these sound like your kind of trip, you’re likely to come away with some wonderful memories of Bacalar’s stunning lagoon.

You can check availability for your dates here: